GERMAN

a zither and flute that belonged to a German immigrant family in Texas

In 1844 three ships sailed to Texas from Germany.  After the hundreds of immigrants landed on the Texas coast, they arranged to purchase land.  The land was not available until the next spring.   Meanwhile, the German immigrants were forced to find ways to survive.  Many of them dug holes in the ground and covered them with branches and moss for shelters.   Many people died because of sickness. 

When their new land was found the Germans followed the Guadalupe River from the coast to New Braunfels, Texas.  After reaching their land, they began to build log cabins and plant seeds.  Eventually the town of New Braunfels grew and the town of Fredricksburg was founded.

German Texans are the fourth largest culture group in Texas.  They have kept many of their traditions such as, music, dancing, and food. 

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