A group of mostly immigrants came in the mid 1800's to the northwestern area of what is now Bexar County, to establish a better life for themselves and a better future for their descendants. These settlers gradually formed into a community which included farms and ranches, a stage coach stop, post office, store, school, cemetery and church. This old community, known as
Helotes, grew rapidly since the 1970's and in modern times much of it has been taken over by the cities of San Antonio, Helotes and Leon Valley. The community has changed tremendously, but the one remaining strong influence is Zion Lutheran Church of Helotes, founded in 1904. This congregation has provided a place of worship for the original settlers in the community as well as the newest residents in the burgeoning subdivisions. The legacy of the pioneer settlers still shines brightly on Loop 1604 at Braun Road. Over the past 90 years Zion Lutheran Church of Helotes has built churches in 1906, 1950 and 1988, all on one piece of property, where all three buildings are still in use today.
In 1995 Zion Lutheran Church of Helotes completed a five year project in which the first church, built in 1906, has been restored to its original character. The old church now has a new place in this modern community.
The History Committee of Zion Lutheran Church of Helotes hereby submits application for a Texas State Historical Marker for the original Zion Lutheran Church of Helotes built in 1906.
Thanks to the following church members who edited, researched, and advised: Edward Anderson, Gerald Dalum, Calvin Galm, William Hunger, and Reverend Peter Manfred.
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