German immigrants arriving in Texas during the 1840s soon established singing societies in their new communities to carry on the traditions of their homeland. Although in existence by 1856, the Millheim Harmonie Verein officially organized in 1873. The first minutes of the group show that the first elected officers were E. G. Maetze, president; W. Mersmann, vice president; C. Schneider, treasurer; and S. Engelking, secretary. Early meetings were held monthly, and membership fees were $5.00 per year. A social hall was built in 1874 on two acres purchased from F. Engelking, Sr. and Heinrich Vornkahl. The original Harmonie Hall served the members of the Verein and the residents of the Millheim community for many years. It was the location of political rallies, elections, family gatherings and school programs. The annual Father's Day barbecue, which is still held today, was begun in the first Harmonie Hall. A new hall was constructed in 1938 on property donated to the Verein by Otto and Dora Severin. The old hall was dismantled and usable lumber was used in the construction of the new hall. Members attended the first dance in the new hall on April 15, 1939. The centennial of the Millheim Harmonie Verein was celebrated in 1972, and the 125th anniversary of the Verein was celebrated at the annual Father's Day barbecue on June 15, 1997. As a gathering place for entertainment, education, recreation and celebration, the Millheim Harmonie Verein has played an important role in the life of the surrounding community and its citizens. (2009)
Millheim Harmonie Verein
The roadside stories worth pulling over for.
Millheim Harmonie Verein is a historical marker in Sealy, Austin County, dedicated in 2009. It is one of 83 historical markers documented in Austin County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 273 historic sites cataloged across the county.
The site sits at 29.8753, -96.2552 near Sealy. The nearest cataloged historic site is Severin Cemetery (cemetery), about 0.4 miles away. Others within a short drive include Nagel, Millheim Cemetery, and Goebel.
This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507015887. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.
Get Texas Roam — all 28,000 sites in your pocket
See this site and every marker, cemetery, courthouse, museum and landmark across Texas on one live map — find what's near you, get directions, and check in as you roam.
