Gruene Hall (Texas) Celebrates 50 Years Under the Visionary Leadership of Pat Molak, Who Revived the Historic Dance Hall and Transformed It Into a Launchpad for Legends Like George Strait and Robert Earl Keen
In the heart of New Braunfels, Texas, where the Guadalupe River rolls and music still echoes off old wood-paneled walls, a living legend celebrates an extraordinary milestone. Gruene Hall, the state’s oldest continuously operating dance hall, is now marking 50 years under the leadership of Pat Molak—a man whose vision and tenacity turned a forgotten relic into a cornerstone of Texas music history.
Built in 1878, Gruene Hall was already part of Texas lore, but by the early 1970s, the old dance hall was fading quietly into the past. That is, until Pat Molak, a former stockbroker looking for something more meaningful, saw not just an old building—but a cultural treasure waiting to be revived.
In 1975, Molak purchased Gruene Hall with a bold idea: to preserve the spirit of Texas music by letting it live and breathe on its original stage. What followed was not just a restoration, but a revival—one that would shape the trajectory of American roots music for generations.
Under Pat’s guidance, Gruene Hall became the proving ground for rising talent, with a humble stage that launched the careers of artists who would go on to become legends. A young George Strait played early sets there with the Ace in the Hole Band. Robert Earl Keen, Lyle Lovett, and Townes Van Zandt all passed through the hall’s weathered doors, leaving pieces of their songs in the air.
But it wasn’t just about names—it was about soul. Gruene Hall stayed true to its roots: no air conditioning, no frills, just raw talent, cold beer, and a dance floor that welcomed everyone.
Molak, alongside longtime business partner Mary Jane Nalley, built more than a venue—they built a community, a space where Texas tradition could thrive without compromise. Today, that vision still stands. The walls may be the same, but the music never stops evolving.
In celebration of 50 years, Gruene Hall is hosting a year-long lineup of tribute shows, special performances, and storytelling events honoring the artists—and the man—who made it all possible.
“Pat didn’t just save Gruene Hall,” one performer recently said. “He gave Texas music a home. And every artist who’s walked across that stage owes him something.”
As Gruene Hall looks ahead to the next chapter, one thing remains clear: thanks to Pat Molak, the dance never ended—it just kept getting better.