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.