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(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
Big Market — Sophienburg Museum and Archives (New Braunfels)
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Humanities Texas Grant
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.
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
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
The 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
Arriving Germans found native tribes in area they settled
By Myra Lee Adams Goff — Prince Carl in the diary of his sojourn to Texas writes about sleeping on the ground, using a pistol case as a pillow. Even before the emigrants arrived, he …Read more >Sophienburg History Award 2023
By Tara V. Kohlenberg — Now in our 90th year of existence, the Sophienburg Museum and Archives has maintained artifacts and archival documents to keep the history of New Braunfels alive. Part of our mission …Read more >New Braunfels treasure celebrates 90 years
By Tara V. Kohlenberg — A 90th birthday is an event well worth celebrating. My beautiful friend was born in 1933, the same year as Willie Nelson and Carol Burnett. It was the worst year …Read more >History mystery: South Seguin Avenue, Part II
By Tara V. Kohlenberg — Part I of the history of 650 and 666 South Seguin Avenue properties was a story of immigrants who worked hard and expanded their family holdings. Now, on to Part …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.
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)