Friday, June 27, 2008

112 - Fischer, Texas


25mi. W of San Marcos.

Seeds of the community were sown in 1876 with more than 3,000 acres acquired by brothers Herman and Otto Fischer. Herman claimed and stuck with 160 acres, building a small 3-section “dog trot” cabin -- part of it becoming the original Fischer’s store and the hub of “Fischerdale.” Otto, however, thought 3,000 acres would be more suitable for a livestock operation. It makes sense, then, that Herman became known as “Store” Fisher, and Otto known as “Stock” Fisher.

Over the years, Fischer’s store expanded far beyond its mercantile role to also become the community’s post office, “bank” and saloon -- the original 3-section cabin giving way to a larger frame building. At about 1900 it became the frame and tin structure we know today. Never one to miss a business opportunity, “Store” Fischer established a thriving cotton gin across the road at a spot now marked by two cedar trees in the open field.

Progress also brought name changes to Fischerdale, which quickly became Fischer’s Store. However, with the post office came a forced name change to simply Fischer, so the postmark wouldn’t “advertise” the store.


Here's a tractor patent by Fischer resident Kevin Wilson:

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