Finding My Queer Family in a Small Texas Town
Ever felt like you're the only rainbow fish swimming in a very traditional pond? That was me three years ago when I moved to New Braunfels with nothing but two suitcases and a nervous smile.
My New Braunfels Journey
I still remember my first walk along the Comal River, admiring the beautiful Texas landscape while simultaneously wondering if I would ever truly belong here. The German heritage festivals were charming, the barbecue divine, but where were my people? I'd catch myself code-switching at HEB, carefully monitoring pronouns when mentioning my partner at Krause's Cafe, constantly calculating safety versus authenticity.
When Being Yourself Feels Revolutionary
The hardest part wasn't the occasional sideways glance—it was the isolation. Dating apps showed the nearest prospects 45 minutes away. Making queer friends meant driving to San Antonio or Austin. Some days, I felt like I was living a double life:
- My "New Braunfels persona" who smiled politely at neighbors
- My authentic self who only emerged during trips to bigger cities
- The exhausting space between these identities
Creating Space Where None Exists
Everything changed when I stopped waiting for community and started building it. I started small—a monthly meetup at Krause's Biergarten. Five people became twelve became thirty. We created a private Facebook group that now has over 200 members. We've organized pride picnics at Landa Park where local allies outnumbered protesters 10-to-1.
You Are Not Alone Here
If you're reading this feeling isolated, please know there are others like us tucked into the corners of this beautiful town. Your authenticity isn't just allowed—it's necessary. Small towns don't change without brave, visible queer folks living truthfully.
What's your New Braunfels experience? Has anyone found other queer-friendly spaces here? Share below—your comment might be the lighthouse someone else needs to find their way home.