The City of Schertz and The Crossvine are proud to announce the completion of Schertz Now and Then: An Oral History, a 25-minute documentary chronicling the rich history and growth of Schertz from its founding to current day. An unveiling event and celebration of the story of Schertz is planned for Wednesday, March 6th, 2019 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at the Schertz Public Library.
This event is free and open to the public and will feature the first public showing of the full documentary, a moderated panel with interviewees and Schertz history buffs, light bites, as well as informational tables and booths from area history groups set up throughout the library.
Schertz Now and Then: An Oral History features interviews with former city officials, area historians and residents of Schertz whose families have lived in the area for generations and share stories about what it was like to grow up in Schertz all through the 1900s. The original impetus for the project came from Chris Price, developer of The Crossvine, a mixed-use, master-planned community in southern Schertz, who was passionate about learning more about and preserving the rich history of the city. Through conversations with area historians and lifelong residents of Schertz, the project grew into its current form – a full-fledged documentary about the city with interviews and stories told by those who know Schertz best.
"This oral history video provides an important record of how the City has evolved to become a celebrated and prosperous community,” said Dean Weirtz, Chairman of the Schertz Historical Preservation Committee. “It serves to provide a lasting voice of historical importance for educating the many newcomers and visitors to our community. It has been a distinct pleasure to be able to participate in the development of this project. Our community offers its gratitude to those who produced this outstanding media presentation."
The documentary is divided into six “episodes,” each addressing a different aspect of Schertz’ rich history and growth. Topics range from Schertz’ founding by the Schertz family in the 1800s and its agricultural and German roots, to personal stories from life-long residents about what it was like to grow up in Schertz, to the impact of Randolph Air Force Base and the city’s current growth. The project began in earnest in 2016, with interviews and b-roll captured by Austin-based cinematographer Rocky Conly over the following two years.
For more information about Schertz Now and Then: An Oral History and the official unveiling event at the Schertz Public Library on Wednesday, March 6, please follow the City of Schertz on Facebook.
