St. Mary's Catholic Church, Fredericksburg (must see)

Saint Mary's Catholic Church traces its roots back to the mid-19th century when the first Catholic church in Fredericksburg was a humble log house constructed in 1848. This early structure was replaced in 1861 by a more substantial stone building, now known as Old Saint Mary's, which has since served various purposes, including as a schoolhouse. Its historical significance in the context of German immigration to Texas earned it recognition as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1994.

As the congregation grew over the years, the need for a larger church became evident. In response, a new church was designed by San Antonio architect Leo M.J. Dielmann and constructed in 1906 by contractor Jacob Wagner. The current Saint Mary's Church features striking Gothic elements such as buttresses, trefoil motifs, and a prominent corner tower that rises above the roofline, adding to its architectural grandeur. Inside, visitors are treated to an impressive array of paintings and murals, including adornments on the organ pipes and ceiling vaults, contributing to its designation as a painted church and its inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.

The significance of Saint Mary's extends beyond its architectural and historical importance. The church campus also includes Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, located at 302 East College Street. Originally opened in 1919, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church was later closed and reopened as a mission of Saint Mary's in 1983, serving the Spanish-speaking community.