In June of 1964, the New Braunfels Conservation Society was formed to preserve the buildings and artifacts of the city’s distinct German heritage. Buildings are continually being acquired and restored.

Conservation Plaza

Conservation Plaza has become a refuge for the safekeeping of vintage structures that would have been destroyed because they were standing in the way of progress. The structures are completely restored and furnished with period pieces or actual furnishings used in the original building. Conservation Plaza has the largest collection of fachwerk, or half-timber, buildings anywhere in Texas. Three and one half acres were donated as a place for the buildings to be assembled to depict a typical German village of the period from 1845 to 1860. All economic levels are represented.

The Baetge House

The home of Carl Friedrich Baetge, built in 1853 at a location 26 miles northwest of New Braunfels, was the first building to be acquired. It was dismantled and completely restored at Conservation Plaza. Mr. and Mrs. Baetge came to Texas from Russia, --Mrs. Baetge bringing at least one hundred pieces of luggage filled with silks, satins and laces. The home has been completely furnished with period pieces of Texas and German origin.

Haelbig Music Studio

The home of Stefan Haelbig, who emigrated to Texas in 1868, and became a prominent music teacher in New Braunfels in the late nineteenth century, has been preserved at Conservation Plaza and is on display with many of his musical instruments and other artifacts. He organized and directed the Maennerchor and the orchestra of the early New Braunfels Music Club, a group still in existence in the city.

Jahn Home and Cabinet Shop

The Cabinet Shop with tools brought from Germany by Johann Jacob Jahn, "Teischlermeister" or Master Cabinet Maker, is on display, and his beautiful home, circa 1855, has recently been restored to its original construction, including original hardware.

Forke Store

The J.L. Forke Store, built in 1865, houses a collection of antique ceramic and glass shoes, a weather vane collection, along with many farm and kitchen implements sold to the locals.

Rose Conservatory

A lovely collection of antique roses graces the grounds. Rose cuttings were obtained from rose bushes found in old cemeteries and gardens in Comal County. A Gazebo in the rose garden and the Forke Store (capacity 100) are available for family reunions, weddings or organizational meetings.

Folkfest

Each spring the Plaza steps back in time to celebrate pioneer traditions with Folkfest. Crafts, hobbies, local genealogy, early arts and skills are on display. Children’s activities include candle dipping, hay riding, pottery making, needle work, face painting, a petting zoo, and pony rides. There is entertainment in the form of folk singers and dancers, and mariachis. Children are invited to participate in the 150-year-old traditional "Kindermasken Parade" through downtown New Braunfels. The historic buildings and homes are open for viewing.

Conservation Plaza is open Tuesday through Friday – 10am – 3pm and Saturday and Sunday 2pm – 5pm.

Admission fee is charged.
Group visits can be arranged at any time.
1300 Church Hill Drive
830-629-2943
Sources: Martha Rehler and Barron Schlameus