Hilda, Texas, Mason County ghost town. (original) (raw)

Low water crossing near Hilda, Texas

History in a Pecan Shell

Transmigrating German immigrants arrived here in the mid 1850s to avoid the overflowing towns of New Braunfels and Fredericksburg. Indians made life difficult for the settlers and staple supplies required a trip to Fredericksburg.

Originally named Beaver Creek, the name Hilda was submitted when a post office was applied for. Hilde Schulze, a relative to the postmistress was the community�s namesake. In 1865 a Methodist church / school building was constructed. In the early 1890s a separate school was constructed. The original church was razed in 1902 and a new building built from the original stone.

Growth was between slow and nonexistent. The post office closed in 1919 and although no exact population figures are available, it was estimated that 35 families occupied the immediate countryside surrounding the stone church, most of them engaged in sheep and cattle raising.

Bethel M. E. Church

Historical Marker:
Built 1862. Second church of any faith in Mason County. Housed first school in the county.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1965

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church

Bethel M.E. Church
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark
Photo courtesy Will Beauchamp, 2011

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church cornerstone

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church historical marker

Bethel M.E. Church historical marker
Photo courtesy Will Beauchamp, 2011

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church Cottage

Photographer's Note:
The little cottages were called ESSHAUS'S. These ESSHAUS'S were used by church members who would drive their wagons or buggies from far out in the country. Sometimes staying 2 nights and returning home after church or the following day. They have 2 of these restored. There were about 8 people around doing yard work & maintenance and had a great time visiting with all the friendly folks!!!!

This Church may be small & off the beaten path but it's very much active. -

Will Beauchamp, March 2011

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church Cottage plaque

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church Cottage

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church picture

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church door knob

Hilda, Texas - Bethel M.E. Church out building

Hilda, Texas - Hilda Methodist Cemetery

Hilda, Texas - Bethel Methodist Church

Brandenberger Ranch, Hilda, Texas

Brandenberger Ranch in Hilda
Photo courtesy Barclay Gibson, October 2003

Hilda, Texas - Brandenberger Ranch House

Brandenberger Ranch House
Photo courtesy Barclay Gibson, February 2004

	Residents in Hilda TE Photo , 2001

Mason County 1907 Postal map showing Hilda
S of Mason
Courtesy Texas General Land Office

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