Danevang

The first years nearly ended the colony. Northern grains failed, imported cattle died and the low prairie flooded, and some families left for California to found Solvang. After a visit, the Texas Land and Cattle Company's president extended the unpaid land notes at once. By 1901 the settlers had turned to cotton and then to cooperation: a fire insurance company in 1897, their own telephone system in 1913, a farmers' cooperative in 1920. In 1896 L. Henningsen became a Weather Bureau cooperative observer, starting Wharton County's first weather station, whose daily records the community kept in its assembly hall.

What the plaque says

Danevang The first successful Danish community in Texas. Established in 1894 on a portion of 25,000 acres secured through option by Danish Folk Society from Texas Land and Cattle Company. Most immigrants came first to the northern United States, where other Danes had settled, and then to Texas, desiring to preserve their national culture, language, and religion. A Lutheran church was erected in 1895. Hardships included disease, insects, poorly drained land, and primitive transportation; but hard work, farming ability, and cooperation brought success. (1970)

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Ansgar Evangelical Lutheran Church and Cemetery — 0.2 mi
• Danevang Community Hall (Danevang Forsamlingshus) — 0.3 mi
• Clemville — 5.3 mi
• Deming's Bridge Community — 10 mi