ROUND TOP RIFLE ASSOCIATION
Round Top Rifle Association – A German Tradition Since 1873
The Round Top Schützen Verein (shooting society) was formed in 1873 by the town’s German heritage inhabitants. It’s purpose was stated as “the support and encouragement of innocent out-door sports, such as bicycle riding, target and trap shooting, open air athletics, games, dancing, and others of a like character”. It was modeled after the traditional “protective societies” that safeguarded small communities in Germany.
The 10.5 acre property on which the Rifle Association Hall is located was purchased in 1881-1882. By 1912, construction was complete on the dance hall, bandstand, outdoor kitchen and bar and the site was named Schützen Park, or Sharpshooter’s Park. It became the locale of many community events – dances, holiday celebrations, shooting contests, cook-offs etc. A sketch of the early Hall grounds shows the original Hall as well as the area where horses were tied, a bowling alley, a carousel, a saloon, ice cream stand, and of course, outhouses.
The verein changed it’s name to the Round Top Rifle Association in 1921, when it became incorporated with the state of Texas. Over the years, the Rifle Hall was updated and modernized and the activities hosted there evolved as well. Today the Hall is the scene of the famous Round Top Fourth of July celebration, regular shooting contests, and many dances and community parties.