Austin Programs at the German Free School
The headquarters of the German-Texan Heritage Society is located at the German Free School, 507 E. 10th St., in downtown Austin. Many of our programs take place at this historic facility.
German Free School History
The German Free School was built in 1857 of rammed earth construction by German immigrants to Austin. It served as the first chartered school in Austin. Over the years, ownership of the building changed hands. In 1991 it was donated to the German-Texan Heritage Society by artist Kelly Stevens. The building now functions as a German cultural center with a wide variety of programs and activities offered to the general public. Learn more about the German Free School here.
Open House
The German Free School is open for tours every Thursday afternoon from 1:00 to 4:00 pm, or by appointment. Our main docent, Helga von Schweinitz, will lead you on a guided tour and share her extensive knowledge of the building’s history and the lifestyles of the early German immigrants to Texas. Groups tours can be arranged by special request. Email the GTHS office to arrange a group tour.
Stammtisch
Join us every Thursday at the German Free School, from noon to 1:00 pm, for our weekly Stammtisch. German speakers of all levels come together for an hour of conversation and camaraderie. Bring along a brown bag lunch if you like and practice your German speaking skills. Beginners are welcome. It’s a very friendly group, so there’s no need to be embarrassed about your pronunciation or grammar. Please join us! Click here for some Stammtisch photos.
German Film Night
Come enjoy a German film (with English sub-titles) at the German Free School (usually) on the fourth Friday of the month. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the film starts at 7:30. Admission is free. Free popcorn, pretzels and pre-film Gemütlichkeit are on tap. Feel welcome to bring your beverages of choice. Click here for details on upcoming films.
Speaker Series
On the third Sunday of the month, the Speaker Series at the German Free School invites authors, experts, musicians, and other knowledgeable individuals to present topics relating to Germany and the German-Texan experience. The presentations begin at 3:00 pm, with a reception afterwards. Admission is free. Click here for details on upcoming speakers.
German Language Classes
The German-Texan Heritage Society offers a wide range of German language classes in Austin for adults and children (ages 3-13). Follow the links for details on adult classes and children’s classes.
Trenckmann Library
The Charles G. Trenckmann Memorial Library is a research library located inside the German Free School building in Austin. It houses a unique collection of books and periodicals relating to German and German-Texan history and culture, Texas history, and genealogical information. The collection includes a large number of family histories as well as the complete collection of Texas Vorwaerts, an all-German Texas newspaper. Click here for more information on the Trenckmann Library.
