2021 Spring Remembrances Newsletter1
Remembrances
Newsletter of the Schertz
Historical Preservation
Committee
Spring Edition
2021
In the last newsletter (January 2021) we reported that the coronavirus pandemic
was experiencing a rise in new infections in many sectors of the nation. The good
news was that the development of a vaccine had occurred and the
delivery/immunization process was underway. Most of the most vulnerable
populations have since been vaccinated and other groups are beginning to receive
vaccinations, but spikes continue to appear in at least 21 states.
The Committee’s special project of documenting the history of the response to the
pandemic by each level of government from federal to local (Guadalupe
County/Schertz City) has continued. As noted earlier, the report of the
Committee’s research has been divided into two parts. The first avenue of inquiry
was undertaken by Committee member Howard Alperin, the results of which
comprises Part I of the Remembrances Special Report 2020-5. Part II of
Remembrances Special Report 2020-5 provides reporting on the history of each
government entity’s involvement in the struggle to curtail spread and provide an
effective cure for the disease. The first installment for Part II reporting covers the
period from early 2020 when the pandemic struck the United States until
October 2020 when a noticeable downturn in infectious cases was underway in
the nation. The second installment of Part II reporting covers the period from
October 2020 until January 2021.
Remembrances Special Report 2021-2, Schertz’ Most Historical Pathway – Main
Street has been published and a copy is attached.
The Committee has undertaken a “time capsule” project which will entail placing
artifacts/mementos/products in a sealed container for opening in the year 2032,
which is the 75th anniversary of the incorporation of the City of Schertz. If any
reader would be interested in contributing an item for the project, please contact
Howard Alperin at telephone #210-473-4571.
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Remembrances Newsletter Spring 2021 Edition
The Galveston, Harrisburg and San Antonio Railroad Line caboose situated at
FM 78 has been designated as a historic museum venue. The caboose’s interior
décor has been videotaped and made available for public viewing at the City of
Schertz webpage under “Historical Preservation Committee.” A sign containing a
QR code image will soon be placed at the front entrance of the caboose for public
viewing of the caboose interior and a narration of railroad history in Schertz.
In February, the Committee provided City Council with its annual year-end
report.
The Main Street Subcommittee continues its staged improvement project work to
include road repair, bench/trash receptacle placements, historic statue
placements, etc. The Schertz Historical Preservation Committee continues to
participate as a “stake holder” member of the Subcommittee.
Research concluded regarding the historic nature of the home at 800 Roy
Richards Blvd. (the former Dietz family homestead). The owners of the property
declined the Committee’s offer to nominate that home for Landmark designation.
A survey conducted by the Committee within the Aviation Heights Heritage
neighborhood determined a need for additional historic banner placement
throughout the neighborhood. Replacement banners were put in place in early
January 2021.
Exchange of Easter greetings between our Committee and our sister society (the
History Society of Riedishiem, France) occurred in April.
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