Brunson Building
Columbus, Colorado County, Texas
Marker Inscription
Charles Brunson (1830-1916), born in Westphalia, Germany, migrated to America in 1845. About 1867 he settled in Columbus, establishing a saloon, which prospered. In 1891 he erected this building, adding adjacent store in 1896. Used as saloon until about 1919, building later had other occupancies. Except for lowering of canopy and some changes in windows, it retains original Victorian style. Allen Wendel has owned this property since 1970.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Charles Brunson left Westphalia, Germany, in 1845 as part of the great mid-century German migration to Texas, and by about 1867 had settled in Columbus, where his saloon prospered. In 1891 he erected this Victorian commercial building, adding an adjoining store in 1896; it poured drinks until around 1919 and then took on other uses. Aside from a lowered canopy and altered windows, it still wears its original Victorian dress.
Why it matters
Brunson's building embodies the German immigrant contribution to Texas commerce and the ornate main-street architecture of the Gilded Age.
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Related people
- · Charles Brunson
- · Allen Wendel
Themes & tags
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