Industry in Austin County, Texas — The American South (West South Central)
John Friedrich Ernst, Jr.
Photographed By James Hulse, January 19, 2021
1. John Friedrich Ernst, Jr. Marker
A native of Oldenburg, Germany, John Friedrich Ernst (1820-1863) emigrated to the United States with his family at the age of nine. In 1831, they traveled from New York City to Texas, finally arriving in what is now the town of Industry. The Ernsts were one of the first families to settle in what became a center of German culture in Texas.
Ernst's life spanned the period of Texas history from the days of Mexican occupation to the Civil War. His family fled their home with others during the Runaway Scrape, as Santa Anna's army began its march across Texas in 1836. Shortly after the Texian victory at San Jacinto, Ernst joined the Texas Rangers and was given land in Comal County for his service. He participated in other local militia organizations during the days of the Republic and served as a Justice of the Peace in Round Top (15 mi. NW). Ernst was married to Maria Ann (Krumm) Brey in 1845.
In 1861, John Friedrich Ernst joined the Confederate Light Artillery company recruited for Civil War duty from Fayette County. He died two years later in Waco, after serving twice as the company's commanding officer.
Erected 1985 by Texas Historical Commission. (Marker Number 1500.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Settlements & Settlers
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Location. 29° 58.713′ N, 96° 30.233′ W. Marker is in Industry, Texas, in Austin County. Marker is on Schroeder Road, ¼ mile west of Ernst Parkway (Farm to Market Road 109), on the left when traveling west. The marker is located in the western section of the Ernst Memorial Park. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Industry TX 78944, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Industry Post Office (within shouting distance of this marker); Industry (within shouting distance of this marker); Friedrich Ernst (within shouting distance of this marker); Industry Pilgrims Rest Cemetery (approx. 0.2 miles away); Industry United Methodist Cemetery (approx. 0.2 miles away); Industry Methodist Church (approx. 0.3 miles away); Industry State Bank (approx. 0.4 miles away); Lindemann - Ott House (approx. half a mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Industry.
Also see . . . John Friedrich Meinhard Ernst (1820–1863). Fritz Ernst served as a guide and interpreter for Prince Carl of Solms-Braunfels on his visit to Texas. He was a farmer and a justice of the peace as well as a soldier
Photographed By James Hulse, January 19, 2021
2. The view of the John Friedrich Ernst, Jr. Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on January 24, 2021. It was originally submitted on January 23, 2021, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. This page has been viewed 315 times since then and 68 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on January 24, 2021, by James Hulse of Medina, Texas. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
