Holz-Forshage-Krueger Building
The Holz-Forshage-Krueger Building (1908, 1926) faces southeast at 472 West San Antonio Street, the main commercial street in New Braunfels, just four blocks from the Main Plaza. A number of historic houses and commercial buildings surround the property. The building is divided into two parts: the western part consists of a 2-story brick building dating from 1908 with alterations in 1926; the eastern part includes a 1-story brick building with stucco facade dating from 1926. The south facade of the 2 story building is divided into five bays denoted by strong 1and 2-story pilasters rising to a curvilinear parapet that peaks at the centerpoint of the facade. Single and paired 4/4 wooden windows mark each bay on the second floor; large plate glass windows with divided transoms still indicate each bay on the first floor with the last bay occupied by an overhead garage door. The south facade of the 1-story building is divided into three bays, each with a large plate glass window/doors and divided transom. The building is in good condition with a high degree of integrity. It is now being adapted by the owner for downtown housing.
The Holz-Forshage-Krueger Building faces southeast on West San Antonio Street, the terminus of the main commercial street in New Braunfels. Directly across the street is the Karbach Haus which has just been recognized locally as an historic site. Adjacent to the Karbach Haus is the Wagenfuehr House dating from the 1870s which has recently been given to the New Braunfels Conservation Society and is presently being used as a museum. West of the Holz-Forshage-Krueger Building, is First United Methodist Church which was founded March 7, 1853. To the east side is an open lot currently being used to display used cars. To the rear facing Mill Street is a building circa 1880s that was part of the New Braunfels Academy (one of the first public schools in Texas) and is now the Tax Office for the New Braunfels Independent School District. This building is a designated historic site. Also on adjacent property facing Mill Street are a number of houses circa 1880 that are being renovated to their original appearance. The area is a focal point to the rich heritage of New Braunfels. In addition to the rich cultural heritage of the location, it is in a transition zone between commercial and residential evidenced by the many beautiful old pecan trees in the immediate vicinity.
