Comal Cemetery - Image 1
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Comal Cemetery

5
·4 reviews·New Braunfels, United States

Explore the historic Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels, featuring unique seashell graves and the resting place of Texas's Father of Botany.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall evenings

Unique themed tours

CrowdMedium
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Comal Cemetery - Image 1

Comal Cemetery

Best Time

Fall evenings

Unique themed tours

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels, featuring unique seashell graves and the resting place of Texas's Father of Botany.

5
(4 reviews)

"Discover unique seashell graves and local history at the peaceful Comal Cemetery."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Tips

Park near the cemetery by the library for easier access, especially during the Comal County Fair. :car:

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the unique beauty respectfully. Focus on the art and history, not intrusive shots. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unique German Immigrant Graves

Unique German Immigrant Graves

Various plots

Discover distinctive domed seashell funerary designs, a unique touch from German immigrants.

Father of Texas Botany

Father of Texas Botany

Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer's grave

Visit the final resting place of Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, a key figure in Texas botany.

Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America

Veteran's section

Witness or participate in the touching tradition of placing wreaths on veterans' graves.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Exploration

Comal Cemetery is a historic resting place. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, observe quietly, and avoid disturbing any gravesites. Many find it a peaceful spot for reflection and learning about local history.

Event Awareness

Special events like Wreaths Across America or the Soul Searching cemetery tour occur periodically. Check local listings to be aware of these events, which can impact visitor access or add to the atmosphere.

Best Times

When
Fall evenings
Why
Unique themed tours
Crowd
Medium
When
Winter mornings
Why
Wreaths Across America
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime
Why
Peaceful reflection
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“She made the best meatloaf.” Brought Beverly’s meatloaf recipe to her. I personally think it really is the best! The cemetery’s community cookbook is currently out of print so including her recipe here: “She made the best meatloaf” Ingredients 2 points lean ground beef 1 packet dry onion soup mix 5 slices of white sandwich bread cut into cubes ¾ cup milk 2 eggs ⅓ cup ketchup 1 tablespoon...
@ghostlyarchive
5.7K likes • 54.2K views

🚗 Parking Tips

Park near the cemetery by the library for easier access, especially during the Comal County Fair. :car:

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the unique beauty respectfully. Focus on the art and history, not intrusive shots. :camerawithflash:

At the very historic Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels, you’ll find very unique funerary designs with domed seashells from a German immigrant’s design. #texashistory #cemetery #newbraunfels #nbtx #texas #texashillcountry
forrestfromtexas
585 likes • 11.6K views
Such an honor to help and teach my son the importance of Wreaths Across America - Comal Cemetery 🇺🇲 "Say their name, so they won't be forgotten" #WreathsAcrossAmericaDay #ComalCemetery #HonoringHeroes #Camaraderie #FatherSonTime #MyGreatestCreation #TheLegend #TheLegacy #IrreverentWarriors #IrreverentWarriorsNewBraunfels
the_only_jeyco
2 likes • 202 views

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and exploring different sections. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Learn Local History

Engage with the stories of those buried here; consider attending a historical tour. :books:

If you know me, then, you know that I love checking out old cemeteries. Here are a few snaps #cemetaryphotography #oldcemeteries #beautifullytranquil #oldbiloxicemetery #comalcemetery
dedelehew
0 likes • 113 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Park near the cemetery by the library for easier access, especially during the Comal County Fair. :car:

📸 Respectful Photography

Capture the unique beauty respectfully. Focus on the art and history, not intrusive shots. :camerawithflash:

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and exploring different sections. :athletic_shoe:

📚 Learn Local History

Engage with the stories of those buried here; consider attending a historical tour. :books:

What Travellers Say

5
(4 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Comal Cemetery for its rich history and unique artistic elements, particularly the seashell graves. It's seen as a peaceful place for reflection and learning about local heritage, with many family ties to the plots. Some find parking challenging during local events.

"I love the historic Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels Texas. Many of my family members are buried here in various family plots. For those who love Texas plants, Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, the Father of Texas Botany is buried here. I can't help but think he knew my earliest Texas ancestors since they lived in the same Texas area and time where Lindheimer was originally and came to New Braunfels at the same time he did too."

Betty Saenz

""

Jayy Ellsworth

""

Catherine Gross

What People Like

Unique seashell graves
Historic significance
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking challenges during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Comal Cemetery is located in New Braunfels, Texas. It's accessible by car, and parking is often available nearby, though it can be challenging during local events like the Comal County Fair. Some visitors suggest parking near the library adjacent to the cemetery for better access. Reddit

Yes, Comal Cemetery is a well-known landmark in New Braunfels. It's situated in a central area, making it relatively easy to locate using GPS or local directions. Instagram

The best routes depend on your starting point, but generally, navigating to New Braunfels and then following local signage for the cemetery or library will lead you there. It's often mentioned in conjunction with other New Braunfels attractions. Instagram

Information on direct public transport to Comal Cemetery is limited. It's primarily a destination reached by private vehicle. Check local New Braunfels transit schedules for broader area coverage. Instagram

Parking can be limited, especially during busy periods or local events. Visitors have found success parking near the library adjacent to the cemetery. Be prepared for potential street parking or paid lots during peak times. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Comal Cemetery is a public resting place and generally does not have an entrance fee. Visitors are welcome to explore its grounds respectfully during daylight hours. Instagram

As a cemetery, it is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to visit during the day to ensure you can see the historical markers and appreciate the surroundings safely. Instagram

No, advance booking is not required for general visits to Comal Cemetery. It's an open public space for respectful visitation. Instagram

While not always consistently available, special events like the 'Soul Searching' cemetery tour offer guided experiences with live actors portraying historical figures. Keep an eye on local New Braunfels event listings. Instagram

Yes, special events like Wreaths Across America Day or historical tours are often held at Comal Cemetery. These events can offer a unique perspective but may also affect regular access or parking. Instagram+2

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted at Comal Cemetery, but it's crucial to be respectful. Focus on the historical markers, unique grave designs, and the serene atmosphere. Avoid intrusive photography of grieving families or private memorials. Instagram

The unique domed seashell graves, the resting place of Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, and the veteran's section with its memorials are particularly photogenic. The older, weathered headstones also offer a sense of history. Instagram+1

While not explicitly stated, common cemetery etiquette applies: be discreet, avoid disturbing others, and do not trespass on private family plots. Respect the solemn nature of the location. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries to ensure the peace and quiet of the grounds and to avoid disturbing visitors or wildlife. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise. Instagram

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the cemetery, while a prime lens can be good for detailed shots of inscriptions. Instagram

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Explore unique German immigrant graves with seashell designs, visit the grave of Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, and learn about local history. Special events like Wreaths Across America or historical tours offer deeper insights. Instagram+2

Absolutely. It's a treasure trove of local history, featuring the graves of early settlers, veterans, and notable figures like the 'Father of Texas Botany.' InstagramReddit

The atmosphere is generally peaceful and reflective. It's a place of remembrance, but also appreciated for its historical significance and unique artistic elements. Instagram

As a historic cemetery, extensive facilities are unlikely. Visitors should expect basic amenities, if any. Restrooms might be available nearby at public parks or the library. Instagram

A typical visit can range from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in history and photography. If attending a special event, you might spend longer. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Comal Cemetery can be a unique educational outing for families. Encourage children to look for interesting grave designs, like the seashell markers, and discuss the importance of remembering historical figures like Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer. Instagram It's a quiet place, so emphasize respectful behavior and keeping voices low. Consider visiting during a special event like Wreaths Across America for a more engaging experience, but be mindful of crowds. Instagram

🌿 Nature and Botany Enthusiasts

For those interested in Texas botany, a visit to Comal Cemetery is a pilgrimage. You can pay respects at the grave of Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, a pivotal figure in documenting the state's plant life. Reddit While exploring, take note of the native Texas plants that may be growing within the cemetery grounds, potentially descendants of those Lindheimer studied. The peaceful environment offers a contemplative setting to appreciate both history and nature. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Seashell Graves

One of the most striking features of Comal Cemetery is the presence of unique funerary designs incorporating domed seashells. These distinctive markers are attributed to German immigrants who settled in the New Braunfels area. The use of seashells, a material not readily available inland, speaks to the cultural heritage and perhaps the symbolic significance these settlers brought with them from their homelands. Instagram

These seashell graves offer a visual departure from more traditional headstones and monuments, providing a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and cultural expressions of early German settlers in Texas. They are a testament to the diverse influences that shaped the region's history and are a must-see for anyone interested in funerary art or local heritage. Instagram

Notable Burials and Historical Significance

Comal Cemetery is the final resting place for many individuals who played significant roles in the history of New Braunfels and Texas. Among the most notable is Ferdinand Jacob Lindheimer, often referred to as the 'Father of Texas Botany.' His contributions to the study and documentation of Texas flora are immense, and his presence here connects the cemetery to the state's natural heritage. Reddit

The cemetery also honors numerous veterans, with many graves marked by flags and memorials, particularly during events like Wreaths Across America. Instagram+1 The presence of these veterans underscores the cemetery's role in remembering those who served. For those interested in genealogy or local history, Comal Cemetery offers a rich tapestry of stories, with many family plots holding generations of New Braunfels residents. Reddit

Community Efforts and Preservation

Maintaining historic cemeteries like Comal presents ongoing challenges, often relying on community involvement and volunteer efforts. Organizations and individuals work to preserve these sites, ensuring their historical integrity for future generations. Instagram

Initiatives like the 'Soul Searching' cemetery tour highlight creative ways to engage the public with the cemetery's history, bringing the stories of the deceased to life through reenactments. Instagram Furthermore, efforts to clean and maintain veteran graves, as seen with young volunteers, demonstrate a strong community commitment to honoring those buried within Comal Cemetery. Instagram

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