The Hassler family in Germany has been traced as far back as 1750. On July 25, 1858, Marie Katherina Wunderlich married Wilhelm Hassler in the church in Birkalbach, Germany. In the next two years, the couple had two children, Heinrich and Friedrich Wilhelm. In 1861, the Hassler family immigrated to Texas. During the Atlantic crossing, baby Friedrich died and had to be buried at sea; it was a loss that Maria Katherina felt the rest of her life. In Texas, the Hasslers settled in the Big Cypress area and began farming, but William Hassler died of a fever in 1863 or 1864. In 1865, Katherina married Heinrich Kaiser, a veteran of the Civil War, and they had several children of their own together while also raising Heinrich Hassler. Descendants of Heinrich continue to live in the Klein community.

Henry Hassler's portrait was donated to Hassler Elemenatary on March 2, 2000 by the Hassler family. The painting hangs in the entrance of Hassler for students, parents, and visitors to enjoy. It represents the millions of immigrants who came to the United States seeking a better life. Henry lived his life in the Klein area as a farmer, rancher, and as a timber man. During his life he had two wives and twelve children. Only eight of his children lived to become adults. The Hassler family has always wanted the best for their children and as Hassler Elementary was dedicated, they reaffirmed their commitment to the children who will grace the halls of our school now and in the future.

For more information about the history of Klein ISD, you may visit our district's Klein Historical Foundation link.





Information gathered from the Klein Historical Foundation and the Hassler Family Tribute 2000.