06/25/2026
Carroll U. Hoffmann passed away on May 6, 2026, leaving a huge hole in the heart of our community where he was well known for his devotion to family, faith and his civic duty.
In his 94 years on earth, Hoffmann was involved in numerous organizations and garnered a whole host of honors and accolades for his civic involvement, but his greatest service was to the Sophienburg Museum and Archives.
The Sophienburg held a special place in his heart. Hoffmann was born just two years before the Sophienburg Museum and Archives was established, so their stories were forever intertwined. He grew up just three blocks from the Sophienburg Museum, walking past it every day to Carl Schurz Elementary or New Braunfels High School on Mill Street.
He gave generously of his time and money over the years, while encouraging others to do the same. Hoffmann served on the Sophienburg Memorial Association Board and was on the 2003 Sophienburg Capital Campaign.
He has encouraged the entire Hoffmann Family to do their all to maintain the story and traditions of New Braunfels’ Founders. His wife, Helen, chaired the Exhibits committee for 20 years. His son, Tobin, played St. Nicklaus. His daughter, Keva, earned a Masters of Museum Science and spent most of her 35-year career as curator/educator at the Sophienberg
One of the greatest gifts to his beloved New Braunfels is the “Dressing of Main Plaza Bandstand” each year. For at least 25 years, the Hoffmann Family has decorated the Bandstand with patriotic bunting for 4th of July. All that Carroll Hoffmann did, he did because he loved his family, his God, and New Braunfels. His legacy lives on at The Sophienburg Museum and Archives.
