Danevang

History of Danevang

Danevang was established in 1894 by Danish immigrants who migrated from the American Midwest. They received land grants from the Danish People’s Society.

The local Lutheran Church played a significant role in preserving Danish culture within the community.

The town’s name, Danevang, translates to “Danish Field.” A post office was established in 1895.

After a period of prosperity, the 1920s saw people moving away, with some relocating to Solvang, California.

Primary crops in Danevang included cotton and other agricultural products. The community featured a lending library.

Danish served as the local language and was used in church and club meetings until 1971. Local holidays, like Christmas, incorporated Danish traditions.

Essential services were developed, including a fire insurance company in 1897 and telephone service in 1913.

In 1920, the Danish Farmers’ Cooperative Society formed to facilitate the purchase, sale, and processing of farm products and supplies.

The population of Danevang fluctuated over the years, with a peak of 500 residents in 1927, followed by declines to 125 in 1967 and 60 in 1980. The population in 2000 was 61.

In 1994, Danevang and its church celebrated their 100th anniversary with Danish cultural festivities.

An obelisk on the church’s lawn commemorates the community’s history, and the local cemetery features predominantly Danish tombstones.

Danevang is known as the “Danish Capital of Texas,” highlighting its Danish heritage and cultural significance.

Danevang Geographic Information

Danevang is situated on SH 71 at County Road 424.

It is located approximately 10.8 miles (17.4 km) south of El Campo and 8.5 miles (13.7 km) north of Midfield in Matagorda County.

Near the crossroads, there is a US post office, agricultural storage buildings, and dwellings.

The Danish Heritage Museum is located 1.0 mile (1.6 km) to the south at the junction of SH 71 and FM 441.

The Danevang Lutheran Church is a short distance to the east of the museum on County Road 426.

The surrounding area features agricultural land, with homes and buildings located amidst it.

Danevang is situated 47 miles (76 km) south of Columbus and 85 miles (137 km) southwest of Houston.

Danevang Economy

Danevang Culture

Danish Heritage Museum: The museum is situated in a structure reminiscent of early settlers’ buildings, with design elements reminiscent of Danish barns, including a red roof.

Artifact Collection: The museum houses artifacts from the early Danish settlement period. Exhibits showcase Viking culture, local agriculture, weather observation, and the historic Danevang church and cemetery.

Restored Farm Implements: The Danish Heritage Preservation Society has gathered and restored various farm implements used by early settlers and farmers, spanning from covered wagons to iron-wheeled tractors.

1898 Pioneer House: The museum site features an 1898 Pioneer House that was moved there in 1993. The house has been meticulously restored to its original state, providing insight into the lifestyle of early Danish pioneers.

Historical Representation: Furnishings and fixtures within the Pioneer House reflect the craftsmanship and heritage of the Danish culture during the early 1900s era.

Danevang Transportation Information

Roadways: Wharton County is served by a network of state highways, including State Highway 60 and State Highway 71, providing connectivity within the county and to neighboring areas.

Public Transit: The Wharton County Transit system provides transportation services within the county, offering demand-responsive and fixed-route services for residents who need access to work, healthcare, education, and other essential services.

Rail Services: While there isn’t a major railroad hub within the county, Wharton County benefits from its proximity to the extensive rail network in Texas, facilitating the movement of goods and materials.

Air Transportation: For air travel, the county is served by nearby airports, including the Wharton Regional Airport and airports in neighboring areas, offering options for general aviation.

Private Vehicle: Like much of Texas, private vehicle ownership remains a predominant mode of transportation in Wharton County, providing residents with the flexibility to travel within the county and beyond.

Education in Danevang

Elementary Schools:

No public elementary schools in Danevang, but there are 3 within 5 miles.

Average math proficiency at the elementary level: 57.5%.

Average reading and language arts proficiency: 43.0%.

Average annual salary of an elementary school teacher: $32,745.

Average number of students per elementary school teacher: 15.0.

Middle Schools:

No public middle schools in Danevang, but 1 within 5 miles.

Average math proficiency at the middle school level: 40.0%.

Average reading and language arts proficiency: 31.0%.

Average annual salary of a middle school teacher: $32,745.

Average number of students per middle school teacher: 14.0.

High Schools:

No public high schools in Danevang, but 1 within 10 miles.

Average math proficiency at the high school level: 34.0%.

Average reading and language arts proficiency: 40.0%.

Average annual salary of a high school teacher: $32,745.

Average number of students per high school teacher: 16.0.