Gethsemane Lutheran Church
historic place
Gethsemane Lutheran Church in Austin, Travis County, is a significant historic place. The church was organized on December 12, 1868, by Swedish pioneers, marking it as the first Lutheran church in Travis County. Swante Palm was instrumental in its establishment. The current church building, a notable structure, was erected in 1883. This building uniquely incorporates stone that was salvaged from the Texas Capitol after it burned in 1881. Later, in 1934, the ornate, paneled doors were added, having been sourced from the old main building at the University of Texas. The architectural style of Gethsemane Lutheran Church is characteristic of many rural Swedish churches. A historical marker was erected in 1962, officially designating it a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. This site offers a direct connection to Austin's early Swedish immigrant community and their lasting architectural contributions to the city.