General -

Fredericksburg was first Settled by immigrant familieswho came from Germany in 1846, led by John O. Meusebach. Although the original settlement was on the Comanche frontier, The Meusebach-Comanche Treaty of the following year established lasting peace. Many older buildings retain traditional German styles; several units comprise National Historic District. German is still spoken occasionally, and old customs are regularly observed: Easter Fires, Schuetzenfests (marksmanship tournaments), Oktoberfest, Kristkindl Market, and Kinderfest. Visitors attracted by scenic beauty, European atmosphere, historic landmarks, excellent fall and winter hunting, and famous bread and pastries. Birthplace of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, Commander in Chief of the Pacific Fleet during World War II Climbers and hikers enjoy Enchanted Rock
State Park near Fredericksburg.

Admiral Nimitz State Historic Site

Consists of (1) the restored Nimitz Steamboat Hotel, famous frontier hostelry, which houses the Museum of the Pacific War; (2) Garden of Peace, gift from the people of Japan; (3) History Walk, lined with rare aircraft, tanks and guns, Fleet Admiral Nimitz was born in Fredericksburg in 1885. At his request, center is dedicated to all who served with him during W.W .II. Open daily 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission; under 6 and over 65 free.

Bauer Toy Museum

Toy soldiers, fire trucks, airplane replicas, character and smaller toys recall bygone days. Also included is a handcrafted village with toy automobiles and trains and a 35-ft. long diorama depicting Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Open Wed. - Mon. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., (winter hours may vary). Donation, at 233 E. Main St.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Massive dome of solid granite famed in Indian legend; said to be site of human sacrifices, some tribes feared to set foot on it, others used height as rallying point; all held it in awe and reverence. Indians believed ghost fires flickered on crest on moonlit nights. A National Natural Landmark, the dome about 640 acres; 500 feet high. Open year round. Hiking, rock climbing and rappelling, picnicking, primitive camping in designated areas (reservations accepted). Eighteen miles north off R.M. 965. Admission.

Easter Fires

An unknown pioneer mother more than 100 years ago told first Easter Fires story to quiet fears of her children--a charming tale of Easter rabbit who lit and tended hillside fires to boil traditional eggs. In reality fires were those of Indians awaiting outcome of peace talks with settlers; agreement was reached and the two groups lived in peace in the Pedernales Valley. The cherished tradition remains today; hillside fires still glow each Easter eve while pageant retells the story.

Pioneer Museum Complex

Operated by Gillespie County Historical Society, complex centers on eight- room furnished pioneer home and store, built 1849, wine cellar and flagstone hof (yard); pioneer kitchens with open hearths. Other structures include another home, barn, smokehouse, Sunday house, and log cabin. Open daily except Tues. Apr. through Oct. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun. 1 - 5 p.m.; in winter, Sat. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sun. 1 - 5 p.m. 309 W. Main St. Admission.

Scenic Drives

R.M. 965 north through geologic and scenic beauty leads to Enchanted Rock.

U.S. 87 to R.M. 648 to community of Doss. Texas 16 NW 13 mi., W on F.M. 1323 to Willow City.