The Friends are Former Students and Teachers

Meet the Friends of Gillespie County Historic Schools

The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools are former students of the closed rural schools and members of the community who are interested in working to protect and preserve the traditions of the schools, the community clubs, and the history of Gillespie County for future generations.

Any school will be opened upon request and we look forward to accommodating your group tour or special event, including private functions, weddings, and other social activities. To make arrangements, contact the rental contact representative provided on each individual school page or visit our Rent A School page.

Today, several properties are in need of preservation. The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools have taken on the responsibility of preserving and ensuring that these former schools will be the future parks for the residents of the county. We sponsor a number of fundraisers throughout the year, including our annual Open House & BBQ the first weekend in April and our Bake Sale in December. Tax-deductible donations are always appreciated and can be made by visiting our Make a Donation page. Plan to visit our exhibit at the annual Gillespie County Fair held each August. You'll find us in the Exhibition Hall.

On April 4, 2009 during in a short ceremony, The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools dedicated a historical marker commemorating the rich public school history in Gillespie County. To read more about the historical marker, visit our Plaque Dedication page.

Remember, the Gillespie County Country Schools Trail is open all year. Pick up a map at the Fredericksburg Visitor's Center or visit the White Oak School located at the Pioneer Museum which is open daily. You can also visit our Driving Directions page for schools trail directions.

Take a video tour of our schools.

If you aren't able to visit the schools in person, you can take a video tour by clicking on the image below.

Placeholder image
To purchase a DVD of the tour, visit our Souvenir Store. The DVD includes over 150 pictures of 12 former rural country schools located on the Gillespie County Country Schools Driving Trail, along with the history of each school. Suggested donation of $16 (donated shipping amount included).