In 1856 the 100 foot two mast Anna Elize set sail for America. Onboard were 120 passengers. Most of them were Moravians from the Frenstat Region. Having endured a 14 week journey of much sickness and terrible storms, these hardy pioneers landed in Galveston, Texas.

It was the later part of November 1856 when the Dubina settlers were brought to Fayette County and were unloaded under live oak trees. A strong north wind was blowing and it was sleeting. They were wet through and through. The only shelter they had was the trees. For many miles around no one lived. There was much crying and lamenting for fear that they would perish. Shortly, the fire was made, and the evening meal was prepared, but during the night no one slept as it was raining and sleeting. The next day was clear so that everybody who was capable of manual labor began to work on what would become the town of Dubina, Texas.

Dubina, a Place of Freedom and Hope details the hardships and achievements of these first Czech settlers.