The first challenges can be traced back to Civil War times, when a majority of German immigrants in Texas took a stand by the Union's cause which was certainly unpopular in the region.
Also, During World War I, Germany became an enemy of the United States which translated into a growing hostility towards immigrants. This situation made it remarkably difficult for them to assimilate American culture while maintaining their roots.
During that period many German-Texan families had to go as far as to change their family name (for example from Schmidts to Smiths). Some institutions even suffered the same fate, like the German Cemetery located in Houston, which became Washington Cemetery.
After the war, tensions continued to grow when Gov. William Hobby vetoed appropriations for the German department at The University of Austin Texas in 1919.
It took until the 1950s and 60s for german-culture celebrations to start reemerging in the area.
Hope this helps!
