Dreaming of a simpler life? Picture Anton F. Krause and his wife Johanna Roesler. They sailed from Bremen in 1854. They sought a new beginning in Texas. The Krause House/Mann’s Crossing Post Office Plaque stands as a reminder of their journey.
This plaque commemorates the Krause House. It also marks the site of Mann’s Crossing Post Office. Anton and Johanna’s story is a testament to the pioneer spirit. They left Europe due to political unrest. They arrived in Galveston and walked to San Antonio.
Anton and Johanna married at San Fernando Cathedral in 1855. By 1859, Anton owned property in San Antonio. He ran a store and saloon on Elm Street. To increase his income, Krause sold his business.
With the money, Krause purchased land near Mann’s Crossing in 1875. This land became the family’s new home. They built a log cabin with help from neighbors. The Krause House is unique. It is the only house in the area with visible log construction.
Anton Krause became a citizen in 1867. He was active in the community. In 1877, he became overseer of the Castroville and Rockport road.
In 1879, Anton became postmaster of Mann’s Crossing. Part of the cabin served as the post office. Krause built furniture to sort and store mail. The post office closed in 1886. The Krause family also experienced tragedy. In 1879, their daughter Ida died in an accident. Later that year, their baby Bertha also passed away.
Anton and his sons were involved in law enforcement. Anton Sr. was elected Constable of Precinct 5 in 1880. The Krause House was even used to hold prisoners. Texas Rangers and federal agents used it as a temporary jail.
The Krause family farmed the land for many years. In 1975, the land was declared a Family Land Heritage Farm. The Krause House symbolizes perseverance. It reflects the lives of German immigrants in Texas.
The Krause House/Mann’s Crossing Post Office Plaque honors this legacy. It reminds us of the challenges and triumphs of early settlers. It stands as a tribute to their enduring spirit. Their commitment shaped the community.