Grapetown
Wine Outlives Town
State: Texas
County: Gillespie County
Founded: 1859
Abandoned: 1940s
Peak Population: 200
German settlers founded Grapetown to grow grapes and make wine. The town had a school, store, and dance hall. As Fredericksburg grew, Grapetown faded. Today, vineyards still dot the area, continuing the tradition the town started.
German Settlement
German immigrants settled the Texas Hill Country in the 1850s. Grapetown's founders planted vineyards and made wine, unusual in Texas.
Legacy
Though the town is gone, Texas Hill Country wine country continues the tradition Grapetown started.
Timeline
- 1859 - Founded German settlers arrived
- 1880s - Peak Winemaking center
- 1940s - Abandoned Population left for Fredericksburg
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 30 minutes
Quick Facts
- Founded by German winemakers
- Near modern Texas wine country
- Dance hall ruins remain
Location
Address: Near Fredericksburg, Texas
Coordinates: 30.3333, -98.8667