Did You Know? | Texas Historical Marker #10088

A native Texan and the son of German immigrants, Albert Nebgen (1889–1965) built this two-story I-plan farmhouse around 1918. The home became the center of a working farmstead similar to those established by early German settlers across the region. As the Nebgen family grew, the open front porch was partially enclosed in 1921—an authentic, practical update that still preserved the home’s historic character.

The Nebgen family owned the property until 1945, and in 1988 it was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.

But the story of early German settlement in this part of Texas doesn’t end there.

Just down the road sits Albert, Texas, a historic Hill Country community that has lived several lives. Founded in 1877 and renamed “Albert” in 1892, the town grew around a general store and post office opened by Albert and Minnie Luckenbach. In the 1920s, residents built a tin-covered, wood-beamed dance hall—a weekend gathering place known for German brass bands, singing societies, and community celebrations.

As the decades passed, Albert dwindled into near-ghost-town quiet—until the 2000s brought a twist worthy of Texas folklore.

In 2007, the entire town of Albert, Texas, was listed for sale on eBay, eventually changing hands multiple times and sparking a small-town revival.

Two landmarks—one a century-old family farmhouse and the other a Hill Country dance hall from a town once sold online—capture the depth, character, and unexpected stories of rural Texas. I caught this great live free show on a Friday night. Photo Credit to Felix Adamo and be sure to follow @thesodacrackers on Instagram.