What's happening
The closure will return to the historic site's original purpose as a mercantile store and continued to be owned and operated by Molak Corporation's family of brands, the news release states.
Susie Molak, wife of founder Pat Molak, said they are excited to return the building to its former glory as a mercantile store.
"We aim to preserve the legacy of Gruene while looking intentionally to the future, and we believe this shift will highlight the history of this iconic location,” Susie Molak said in the news release.
The history
According to Texas Historical Commission records, the building—known today as the H.D. Gruene Mercantile building—was the second mercantile to be built by Henry D. Gruene in the German settlement and served as the "community's business and social center" according to the records.
The Gruene Mercantile building, which was declared an Official Texas Historical Building by the Texas Historical Commission in 1987, was also known as Gruene Brothers Store. Gruene Brothers Store first closed in 1938 due to economic issues within the town, the news release states.
The building has housed several businesses over the years, including western saddle tree manufacturer Hadlock & Fox, before becoming Gruene Antique Company in 1986, the news release states.
Molak Corporation CEO Ryan Weinbrandt said they are appreciative of the dedication, creativity and passion that their antique vendors have shown over the years.
“As we transition to what’s next, we take with us the pride of knowing that Gruene Antique Company brought joy to so many and will always be a cherished part of Gruene’s history," he said in the news release.
Looking ahead
The new mercantile store is anticipated to open in late 2025, according to the news release.
- Closing July 20
- 1607 Hunter Road, New Braunfels
- grueneantiqueco.com
