Settled in April 1831, German Friedrich Ernst chose this site as his league of Mexican Land Grant upon which to establish a home. The Ernst family, along with fellow German Charles Fordtran, built homes 1 to 2 miles apart and began lives as Texans.
An 1832 Ernst letter to Germany extolled the virtues of Texas. This began an influx of fellow countrymen emigrating here and for his help and generosity Ernst became known as the “Father of German immigration to Texas”.
The town of Industry (pop. 304) got its name from area non-Germans who referred to the place as where the “industrious” Germans live.
Tucked scenically into the rolling rural hills of Northwestern Austin County, Industry is the 2nd oldest town in the county having already celebrated its 180th anniversary giving it senior status over most towns in Texas.
For additional information, contact:
Industry West-End Historical Society
P. O. Box 218
Industry, TX 78944
979-357-2772
An 1832 Ernst letter to Germany extolled the virtues of Texas. This began an influx of fellow countrymen emigrating here and for his help and generosity Ernst became known as the “Father of German immigration to Texas”.
The town of Industry (pop. 304) got its name from area non-Germans who referred to the place as where the “industrious” Germans live.
Tucked scenically into the rolling rural hills of Northwestern Austin County, Industry is the 2nd oldest town in the county having already celebrated its 180th anniversary giving it senior status over most towns in Texas.
For additional information, contact:
Industry West-End Historical Society
P. O. Box 218
Industry, TX 78944
979-357-2772