HistoricSiteMarkers
Progressive & Modern Era

Leinweber Building

Hondo, Medina County, Texas

Marker Inscription

Built in 1907 for Ernest Roland Leinweber (1869-1922), a prominent Hondo businessman, this three-story commercial building was constructed by prolific South Texas contractor Gus Birkner, who also participated in the construction of the Texas State Capitol. Built with locally produced brick, the structure features some influences of. Classical and Romanesque styles of architecture. The Hondo landmark has housed a variety of professional and commercial offices. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, 1986

Erected by Texas Historical Commission

The Story

Built in 1907 for prominent Hondo businessman Ernest Roland Leinweber, this three-story commercial block was raised by prolific South Texas contractor Gus Birkner, who had a hand in building the Texas State Capitol. Constructed of locally made brick, it blends touches of Classical and Romanesque styling and has long housed a rotating mix of professional and commercial offices. It was recorded as a Texas Historic Landmark in 1986.

Why it matters

The building reflects the confidence and craftsmanship of a small Texas town's commercial heyday in the early twentieth century.

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Related people

  • · Ernest Roland Leinweber
  • · Gus Birkner

Themes & tags

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