Der Stadt Friedhof
Preserving Yesterday for Tomorrow
Der Stadt Friedhof serves as a vital landmark reflecting the birth and growth of Fredericksburg, Gillespie County, and the broader American story.
Those interred here witnessed the massive German migration, the era of slavery, and the Civil War, while later generations answered the call to arms to serve in almost every U.S. military action and war.
As the final resting place for these brave veterans, alongside the community's most prominent citizens, the cemetery honors individuals whose lives significantly shaped the expansion, protection, and cultural fabric of our nation—leaving an enduring legacy for all of us.
History
Since 1846, Der Stadt Friedhof (The City Cemetery), located along Barons Creek on the corner of East Schubert and Lee Streets, has always been central to the heart and story of Fredericksburg and Gillespie County, Texas. This pioneer cemetery, that is still active today after 180 years, is the oldest known cemetery within the Fredericksburg City limits. Our forefathers and their families who faced untold hardship to settle this area were laid to rest in this beautiful cemetery, putting an end to their toils and asking us to carry on in their memories.
Herman Wilke, a surveyor, was hired to layout and map the town of Fredericksburg and he set aside a plot of land for the cemetery. Many of the original German colonists that arrived with John O. Meusebach were laid to rest here. Many of the early tombstones are written in German. The oldest readable date is 1848.
Although the name translates to The City Cemetery and locally it is known as such, it is not owned by the City of Fredericksburg or Gillespie County. The cemetery is under the supervision and oversite of the Der Stadt Friedhof Cemetery Board.
Currently there are upwards of 6200 graves in these 25 acres of hallowed ground, and they have all contributed in one way or another to the history, interest and success of Fredericksburg and Gillespie County.
Today, efforts are underway to restore, preserve and maintain the final resting place of our town founders, ancestors, families and neighbors. Der Stadt Friedhof is an actively managed, public cemetery. It is open to all denominations.
Preservation
The Der Stadt Friedhof Cemetery Board is a six-member, non-profit, all-volunteer Board charged with the restoration, preservation and maintenance of the oldest cemetery in Fredericksburg, TX. Every dollar of our fundraising goes directly to support these efforts.
To date, funds raised have helped to pave the roads, paint the entrance arches and provide restoration and preservation for over 250 headstones and graves in the pioneer section dating back to 1846.
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Preserving Yesterday for Tomorrow