Bertram

The town of Bertram was founded in 1882 when the Austin and Northwestern Railroad established a route through the area. The community was named for Rudolph Bertram, an Austin merchant who was instrumental in the development of the rail line. Many early residents were from the settlement of South Gabriel (2 mi. SE). Homes and commercial buildings of the pioneer settlers were moved here by brothers L. R. and J. W. Gray. The first store, also relocated from South Gabriel, was run by James E. Riley and Capt. Tom D. Vaughan. Bertram developed as a marketing center for the area's diversified agricultural production. Continued growth came during World War I when the demand for farm and ranch products increased. By the 1920s it was the site of auto dealerships, four banks, a newspaper, a hotel and a variety of other businesses. The economic depression of the 1930s, World War II and improved methods of transportation combined to limit Bertram's growth. Incorporated in the 1970s, the town remains an agricultural center. It serves as a reminder of the pioneers who settled here over a century ago. Many of their descendants still live in the area and serve as leaders of the community.

Bertram is a historical marker in Bertram, Burnet County, dedicated in 1982. It is one of 61 historical markers documented in Burnet County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 125 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 30.7481, -98.0617 near Bertram. The nearest cataloged historic site is Bertram School (historical marker), about 0.6 miles away. Others within a short drive include Bear Creek Cemetery, South Gabriel, and Mount Zion Cemetery.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5053009698. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.