Published: 2009 , $34.95
An insightful reference book, War Between the States by Wilfred H. Schlather, documents those from Comal County (which, before the war, encompassed Blanco and Kendall Counties) and their involvement in the Civil War. This information evolved from Schlather’s personal research into his family’s ancestors into a useful tool for others to do the same and find their own family history. However, most of the information will be about Confederate participants, as information on those in the Union would be difficult.
The War Between the States brings insight into a very curious situation. A predominantly German town in Texas, whose citizens had emigrated to escape conscription, would participate in the nationwide argument on the southern institution of slavery. While there were a few slaveholders in New Braunfels, many opposed. But both wanted to protect their home from attack. This index card-style list of participants from the regular army and the militias allows the public to find their ancestors, just like author Wilfred H. Schlather did. Private Franz Heimer, Schlather’s great-grandfather, enlisted in the militia at 17. In this book, individuals will be listed multiple times due to unit changes and document transfers, including their rank and unit, and even the position they held before enrollment. For those interested in learning information on how their families participated in the Civil War, this book is a must-get. Available at Sophie’s Shop in the Sophienburg Museum & Archives.
