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Open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
(Archives open for research by appointment only, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 830-629-1572)
We take public health seriously and may adjust our policies as necessary.

Welcome to the Sophienburg Museum and Archives.

Take the journey with Prince Carl and his group of German colonists as they cross the ocean and make their way into central Texas. Admire their courage and determination to establish a new colony at the edge of Indian Territory. Exhibits, rich in local artifacts, photographic images, maps and documents, take visitors through the history and cultural heritage of New Braunfels and Comal County. The Sophienburg Museum offers public lectures, school programs and community events that promote the area’s unique history.

2022 Texas Travel Award Winner

Texas Travel Awards 2022 - Big Market - Sophienburg Museum and Archives (New Braunfels)

Big Market — Sophienburg Museum and Archives (New Braunfels)
More winners ...

Humanities Texas Grant

 

Humanities Texas

Thank you,  Humanities Texas, for supporting the Sophienburg Museum and Archives through the 2021 Relief Grant Program.
This relief grant was made possible with funding from the National endowment for the Humanities, received as part of the American Rescue Plan and signed into law on March 11, 2021.

 

The Texas Wildflower

What others are saying about the Sophienburg:
"This remarkable museum showcases German immigration in the Hill Country region through a world-class permanent exhibition."  More …

Since 1845


Since 1845

Our beautiful New Braunfels, the only Texas city founded by German royalty, is celebrating its 175-year history of cultural heritage, hard work, and gemuetlichkeit (the good life). (175th Celebration at the Sophienburg) For more information about the celebration events and how to become involved, follow this link: https://since1845.com/ 

Talking Texas History

Talking Texas History PodcastThe Talking Texas History podcast explores Texas history before and beyond the Alamo. In this episode, hosts by Scott Sosebee and Gene Preuss discuss Texas German history and Christmas traditions with Tara V. Kohlenberg, director of the Sophienburg Museum and Archives. Go to the podcast page.

Recent Posts

  • Recollections of early New Braunfels

    Recollections of early New Braunfels

    By Tara V. Kohlenberg — German immigrants crossed the Guadalupe River on March 21, 1845, setting foot in the next long-term waystation. When spring rolls through Central Texas, it is easy to see why the …Read more >
  • History mystery: South Seguin Avenue

    History mystery: South Seguin Avenue

    By Tara V. Kohlenberg — Having lived in New Braunfels for most of my life, it feels oddly disturbing to see long-standing buildings damaged or torn down. It also piques my interest. Questions about what …Read more >
  • A good smoke was a hometown cigar

    A good smoke was a hometown cigar

    By Keva Hoffmann Boardman — So, I’m still in “cigar-mode.” Once begun, research on a subject takes me down many roads, each with their own questions to answer. For instance, I found out that early …Read more >
  • Albert Kirchner wins Cremo contest

    Albert Kirchner wins Cremo contest

    By Keva Hoffmann Boardman — Last week, David Hartmann, the present-day unofficial historian of New Braunfels, brought some old telegrams to the Sophienburg Museum. In case some of you don’t know what that is, a …Read more >

Thanks to all!

Another Weihnachtsmarkt is in the books!

Thanks to all the shoppers, merchants, volunteers, and staff for making it happen.

Special thanks to all the Weihnachtsmarkt Sponsors.

The Sophienburg's mission depends on all of you.

Looking Back: Bürger Ball Featuring Gary P. Nunn

A good time was had by all.August 27, 2021 — Chandelier of Gruene

Thanks to everyone who helped make this an evening to remember.

Photos

It's About Time

125th Anniversary Time Capsule Items

Items from the 125th Anniversary Time Capsule are available for pickup. Items will only be released to the addressee. ID and signatures are required. Unclaimed Time Capsule Contents (PDF)

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Secured by SECTIGOFor more information call 830-629-1572.
Hours
Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Archives open for research by appointment only, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Location — Google Map
401 W. Coll St. (Entrance on Academy Avenue)
New Braunfels, Texas 78130

175 Years - Since 1845

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