Meet the Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools

The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools are former students of the closed rural schools, along with supportive community members who share a common purpose: to protect, preserve, and celebrate these historic schools, their traditions, and the story of public education in Gillespie County for future generations.

Many of the schools may be opened by request, depending on availability, for group tours, special visits, and community-related gatherings. For rental arrangements or school-specific information, please contact the representative listed on each individual school page or visit our Rent a School page.

Today, several of these historic properties continue to need preservation and care. The Friends have accepted the responsibility of helping maintain and protect these former schools for the benefit of local residents and future visitors alike. To support this work, we sponsor and participate in a number of fundraising efforts throughout the year, including our annual Open House & BBQ held the first weekend in April and our Bake Sale in December. Tax-deductible donations may also be made through our Make a Donation page.

The Friends also maintain an exhibit in the Exhibition Hall at the annual Gillespie County Fair held each August, offering another opportunity to share the story of the schools and their place in the county’s history.

On April 4, 2009, during a special ceremony, The Friends dedicated a historical marker commemorating the rich public school history of Gillespie County. To learn more about this marker and its significance, please visit our Plaque Dedication page.

The Gillespie County Country Schools Trail remains open throughout the year. Visitors may pick up a map at the Fredericksburg Visitor Information Center or at the White Oak School, located at the Pioneer Museum and open daily. You may also visit our Driving Directions page for school trail information.

Through preservation, education, and community support, The Friends continue to keep Gillespie County’s country school history alive.