Gillespie County, Texas
Fredericksburg is the heart of Gillespie County, nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. German settlers founded the town in 1846, and their influence remains strong today. You can see it in the historic architecture, taste it in the local cuisine, and even hear traces of “Texas German” spoken by some longtime residents.
Peaches are a local favorite, especially during the summer when roadside stands are filled with fresh, juicy Hill Country peaches. But Gillespie County is perhaps best known for its wineries, with dozens of vineyards and tasting rooms scattered across the countryside.
Gillespie County is also the birthplace of Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz, whose legacy is honored at the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg. Nature adds another layer of beauty, particularly in spring when wildflowers cover the landscape.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Gillespie County |
| County Seat | Fredericksburg |
| Population | Approximately 30,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Fredericksburg, Stonewall, Harper |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 87, U.S. Highway 290, State Highway 16 |
| FIPS Code | 48-171 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,062 square miles (1,058 sq mi land, 4 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Mason County (Northwest), Llano County (Northeast), Blanco County (East), Kendall County (South), Kerr County (Southwest), Kimble County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 30°16’N, 98°55’W |
| Etymology | Named after Robert Addison Gillespie, a Texas Ranger |
| Major Landmarks | Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, National Museum of the Pacific War, Fredericksburg Winery |
