Dr. David Hill and his wife, Janie, achieved their dream of living in the country many years ago when they settled in Cuero with their three children: Dana, Ryan, and Corey. But on March 23, around 11:30 p.m., Janie let the dogs out and spotted a fire. Soon, they were rushing into the night, fleeing their home barefoot and disoriented.
Unfortunately, despite the efforts of firefighters, the home burned down in the night.
Among the smoldering ruins were the remains of cherished family photos, wedding dresses, and invaluable heirloom jewelry. All now reduced to cinders. In the aftermath, Janie mourns the loss of so many irreplaceable items and wistfully wishes she had gone back to save more from the fire. Surprisingly, Dr. Hill's workshop survived.
They are currently staying in a hotel room and plan to rebuild their home.
“I want to thank the fire department for their efforts. We are so appreciative of the generosity and kindness of everyone and offering to help us in any way they could,” Janie said.
Dr. Hill has served as a doctor at Cuero Regional Hospital, while Janie, a former accountant for an oil company in San Antonio, aspired to own a café. In 2006, they opened the Bahnhof Café. Dr. Hill, handy with tools, did most of the remodeling himself. Over the years, the café has become a cornerstone of the community, serving as a hub for locals. With 19 years of operation under their belt, they were planning a celebration for their 20th anniversary.
Henry Taylor, their son-in-law, manages the café, where the team of waitstaff, cooks, cashiers, and others, greet customers with smiles and witty quips. Known for its delicious spaghetti recipe passed down from Janie’s grandmother, the café has thrived, drawing in patrons who love the fried chicken on Tuesdays, baked chicken on Wednesdays, and meatloaf on Thursdays. Every dish is a hit!
“The community support in the restaurant has been incredible. We've got regulars that are probably in five days a week almost. You know, week in and week out. Community support was vital during COVID, as many loyal customers continued to order takeout,” Taylor said.
Janie has a special place in her heart for children and has served as both a counselor and teacher. As president of Little League Baseball, she is heavily involved in the Little League, managing fields, games, and concessions, and even taking on the task of cleaning the restrooms.
As for Dr. Hill, he finds that woodturning provides a mental break from the hospital. You can find his beautifully handcrafted wooden bowls, often inlaid with turquoise, at a local market.
He may need more mental breaks in the weeks to come as the process of rebuilding begins. But the Hills will have the support of the community they have served for so long.
“I’m amazed at the outpouring of the community. I am in awe,” Dr. Hill said.
