The Pioneer Memorial Library
by VeronicaG
While we were at the Marketplatz, we noticed this imposing building across the street. It was once the Gillespie County Courthouse from 1882-1939, but is currently The Pioneer Library.
This was the second courthouse built in Gillespie County. The design was chosen in a contest offering $50 for the best idea. Alfred Giles of San Antonio, said to be one of the finest architects in Texas, was chosen for the task.
This building is also referred to as the McDermott Building since Mr. and Mrs. Eugene McDermott were instrumental in restoring it for use as a library in 1967. Inside you'll find all the things you expect to find in a public library, but also documents and books carried here by early German settlers.
If you would like to investigate further, library hours are 9 am-6 pm Mon, Tuesday and Thursday; 9 am-7 pm on Wednesday; 9 am-2 pm on Friday and Saturday. Closed on Sunday.
The library is located at 115 West Main Street, Fredericksburg, Tx
(For more info. on this structure, see www.fredericksburg.lib.tx.us/about.htm)
See the butterflies at Wildseed Farms
by 807Wheaton
This was probably the favorite part of the trip for my husband. He loves to garden and we spent a half a day here enjoying the outside garden area and the seed shop inside.
We could smell fresh coffe and biscuits cooking outside and when we located the source of the aroma, we discovered they were offering free samples with local jam. The weather could not have been nicer - what a great memory.
Pizza Buffet for the Kids
by msbrandysue about Mr. Gatti's Pizza-Gattiland
Mr. Gatti's is a big chain and have been in many different locations. There is one on Main St/US 290. There is a big buffet, and three huge areas to eat in. Each of the three areas has a huge tv with different theme. There is the cartoon room, movie room and sports/news room. We chose to sat in the grown-up tv room since we didn't have any kids with us.
After getting your fill of pizza, salad, pasta, and desserts get ready for the game room. They have plenty of games to play like skiball, ski bowling, and ticket-winning games. Add up all your tickets for a fun prize.
Kids will definitely love this place! I love the pepperoni pizza with green olives. Also, the cheese sticks yummmmm!
When It's Cold and Winter Blows In...ICEBAHN
by VeronicaG
Although my husband and I would sooner leave winter far behind, we did enjoy ice skating. Fredericksburg residents can enjoy this cold weather sport at the Marketplatz, in the center of town on Main Street.
As mentioned in my earlier tip, Marketplatz was the original "hub" of the town where people bought and sold produce. Tucked at one end of this public park,a small ice skating rink has been constructed--EISBAHN.
The rink opens on the Friday after Thanksgiving and remains open until early January. Prices and hours: $10 per day (includes skate rental). Hours are Mon-Thurs. 4:00 pm-8:00 pm; Fri., Sat. & and School Holidays from 10:00 am-10:00 pm; Sun. 1pm-8pm.
The rink can be privately rented for parties, see internet: www.eisbahnfbg.com. Proceeds go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
The National Museum of the Pacific War
by VeronicaG
When researching our trip, it was a 'given' that the guys would be interested in the National Museum of the Pacific War.
The museum is divided into different areas: Admiral Nimitz Museum, National Museum of the Pacific War and the Pacific Combat Zone, which requires a guided tour. We were fortunate to arrive on the weekend of a RE-ENACTMENT. (Earplugs were provided!)
The Re-enactment took place at the Combat Zone and featured weapon demos used during the Pacific War, military vehicles and a historical sketch of wartime.
Hours are daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 9am-5pm. Admission is $7 for adults; $6 for seniors and active military with IDs; $5 WWII Veteran; adult tour groups of 20 more more $5 each and $4 for students age 6 and over.
Check the website below for more tour opportunities for student and docent guided tours.