With a name that means "plow man," you'd be right if you guessed that Pflugerville had a strong agricultural past. While the city was once dotted with working farms and ranches, its appearance has changed drastically over the years to be far more urban. Today, Pflugerville is among the fastest-growing areas in Texas. Despite this new growth, however, its prideful residents have not forgotten its distinctive and unique past.
The Early Days
Pflugerville was settled in the early 1800s and established in 1849. The first inhabitant (and the city's founder) was a wealthy farmer named Henry Pfluger. Pfluger arrived with his family in what is now Pflugerville searching for new land to relocate his farming operations destroyed during the Prussian War. After arriving in the US, Pfluger purchased approximately 160 acres of land. Along with having space to grow his crops, Pfluger constructed a log cabin with five rooms (essentially a mansion in those days) for his family. Pfluger brought some seeds with him from Germany that thrived in the fertile Texas soil and the area's warm climate. Main crops grown on the farm include sugar cane, sweet potatoes, beans, wheat, corn, and rye.
Initially, Pflugerville had a tiny population size. However, its population surged following the Civil War and the introduction of more infrastructure and transportation. By the 1870s, Pflugerville had a Lutheran church (following its German origins) and a school. The first post office in Pflugerville opened in the early 1890s, and its first general store was constructed in 1890. Several other small local businesses came to town shortly after, which was enough to form a defined town center filled with shops along the main street. Many of the buildings in Pflugerville used for residential and commercial purposes were constructed by Conrad Pfluger, one of the founder's sons.
Pflugerville's Festivals and Events
With all that goes on throughout the year, present-day Pflugerville is indeed a happening place. The city has many notable annual events that residents and visitors look forward to with anticipation every year.
The German Festival
One of the most popular festivals in Pflugerville is the German festival in Gilleland Park. The festival takes place one weekend in May each year. Some of its highlights are a grand parade and a children's parade featuring German-inspired traditional attire and dancing. Other event activities include German games, rides, and a carnival. There is also live musical entertainment throughout the weekend. Proceeds from the festival go towards supporting projects at the Pflugerville park.
In addition to its annual events and festivals, Pflugerville is also a favorite place for outdoor activities. Within the city's borders are nearly 30 parks, over 500 acres of parkland, approximately 530 acres of open space, and more than 40 miles of trails. Another attraction is the Northeast Metro Park, which is a multi-purpose sport and rec area with a skate park, tennis courts, and more. If you're searching for an escape from it all in Pflugerville, these are some can't-miss destinations.
Lake Pflugerville
Lake Pflugerville is a reservoir that covers approximately 180 acres of land. It is also open for recreational activities like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and windsurfing. Other amenities of the park include a playground, boat launch, and a three-mile recreational trail that can be used for walking or jogging. On a warm day, the beach area is a popular place to spend time.
Katherine Fleischer Park
Katherine Fleischer Park is an excellent place for learning more about the area's history while enjoying its scenic beauty. The park features a tranquil setting complete with a historic homestead that is now a museum, athletic fields, a playground, and a pool. There is also a community center that can be reserved for special events.
Pfluger Park
Pfluger Park is another popular destination. This public park has multiple play areas for younger visitors, as well as picnic areas and places to play volleyball and basketball. There are more than 30 miles of trails throughout Pfluger Park, and it's the site of regularly scheduled events.
Although farming and agriculture are no longer the dominant ways of life in Pflugerville, the natural world is still very much a part of Pflugerville's identity. As a resident, you can do your part to keep the city looking beautiful and green by maintaining your own lawn and garden. If you need inspiration for spring plantings, want to keep your yard healthy during summer and more, don't hesitate to contact Lawn Love, your local lawn care experts.
