What is the Easter legend set in Fredericktown (I think), Texas? How is it celebrated now?

Question

I'm pretty sure there's a children's illustrated book about this story--and that it's included in collections of folklore and Texas legends. But I can't remember exactly what the story is.

Can you give me information on printed versions of this story?

Answer 1

The book is called "EASTER FIRES" by Mary Wade.

ISBN 0-89015-469-4

The tale is about German settlers coming to Fredericksburg, Texas and making friends with the Comanche Indians.

As for current celebrations, on the Saturday evening preceding Easter, bonfires are lit atop as many as twenty-two specified hills flanking the town. At an appointed hour the church bells of the town toll, lights are extinguished, and the hilltops burst into flame.

Hope that helps.