The annual Lower South Grape Creek School Club chicken barbecue fundraiser will be held at the school, 10273 E. US Highway 290, Fredericksburg on Sunday, Sept. 17. The drive-thru only meals can be picked up from 11 a.m. until sold out. The meal will include half of a barbecued chicken fryer, pinto beans, potato salad, pickles, onions, barbecue sauce and dessert for the cost of $15.
Lower South Grape Creek School’s first building was a Log Cabin built in 1871. The present school building was built in 1900 with the enclosed porch added later. The school served the community until 1960 when it was consolidated with FISD.
On holidays such as Washington’s birthday, Thanksgiving and Christmas, students presented programs. All parts were memorized with families and the community invited. Christmas plays were held inside the school with the front area having a curtain and the students using a side window for their entrance and exit. Santa Claus handed out oranges, apples and candy and lit the candles on the Christmas tree. One year his beard caught on fire. He quickly exited through the window and headed for the water well.
The school is now a part of the Friends of Gillespie County Country School and is owned by Gillespie County with use by the community for meetings, family reunions, weddings and showers, in addition to the annual fundraisers to help maintain the school and the grounds within the area.
The current membership of the Lower South Grape Creek School Club is 49 members, which consists of former students, their descendants, neighbors, community members and anyone interested in the school’s preservation. The Club meets quarterly throughout the year for a social. Officers are Darlene Stehle, president; Stephanie Haines, vice president; Shirley Harvey, secretary; and Judy Petsch, treasurer.
Membership dues are $5 per person per year. The community and any interested persons are welcome to join. Dues may be sent to Judy Petsch, 1024 Petsch Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624.
Contact Darlene Stehle at 830-997-4720 with any questions about the school, the Club, rentals or to schedule a tour. Stephanie Haines is available to answer any inquiries via email at shaines916@gmail.com.
The funds from this year’s fundraiser will go towards the new air conditioning unit that is needed.
