The Story Behind Western 1924: Restoring a Forgotten Chapter of Historical Sites in Texas

There’s something magnetic about buildings with history, those walls that seem to whisper stories of the past, layered with moments of triumph, struggle, and transformation. In the quiet town of Martindale, Texas, nestled just a stone’s throw from the flowing waters of the San Marcos River, stands such a building. Known today as Western 1924, this historic two-story structure has lived many lives over the last century. From a bustling mercantile hub to a derelict shell marked for demolition, and now a symbol of architectural rebirth, the story behind Western 1924 is one of resilience, reinvention, and deep respect for Martindale history and its rich heritage.

A Fire, a Fresh Start, and a Flourishing Era

The story begins in the late 1800s, when a wooden mercantile store operated on the same plot of land. At the time, Martindale was emerging as a small yet vital part of Texas’ rural economic fabric. The store served as a commercial heart of the community, a place where locals traded goods, shared news, and shaped their daily lives.

That chapter ended tragically in 1918 when a fire, triggered by the cotton gin’s hydro-electric power plant, tore through downtown Martindale. The flames engulfed the mercantile store and much of the surrounding area, reducing years of livelihood to ashes. But like any good Texas tale, this one wasn’t over.

By 1923, the Martindale Motor Corporation had taken the reins, constructing a new two-story masonry building on the same site. Completed in 1924, this robust structure marked a new era of prosperity. Its thick walls and prominent façade weren’t just practical, they were symbolic. They stood as proof that Martindale, despite its setbacks, was ready to grow again.

The Building that Wore Many Hats

Over the following decades, the building served numerous purposes—each adding another layer to its evolving identity. The first floor was home to the Martindale Motor Corporation itself, which sold and serviced Hupmobile and Ford automobiles. Alongside the showroom, a mercantile and drugstore continued the site’s legacy of community commerce.

Meanwhile, the second floor became a hive of varied activity. The Martindale Masonic Lodge #1206 held its meetings there, and so did the town’s telephone company operators, whose offices and living quarters coexisted in the same space. If walls could talk, these ones would likely tell stories about everything from Masonic rituals to the clatter of switchboards.

As the Great Depression took hold and economic tides shifted, the Martindale Motor Corporation eventually shut its doors. Yet the building was far from abandoned. It adapted to the times, becoming a Humble Oil gas station, which later transitioned into Esso and Exxon brands that served travelers and locals alike into the 1970s. The second floor was converted into apartments and meeting spaces, proving again that this building had an uncanny ability to evolve with each passing decade.

Decay, Danger, and the Brink of Demolition

In 1973, the building changed hands, sold to a man named Samuel Duran. From there, it experienced an eclectic, if inconsistent, series of tenants. Between 1975 and 2019, the site hosted a variety of ventures: a post office, a BBQ market, a cabinet-making business, and even a boxing gym. Despite its ongoing use, the years were not kind to the structure. Maintenance waned, the roof began to fail, and the foundational elements started to crumble.

By 2017, city inspectors deemed the building unsafe and dangerous. The roof and interior had partially collapsed, parts of the foundation had given way, and the masonry walls were leaning, threatening to fall. The structure was red-tagged meaning a final warning before demolition.

For most buildings, that would’ve been the end of the story. But Western 1924 was destined for one more remarkable chapter.

A Love Letter to Martindale History

In 2019, the building was purchased by Maury Domengeaux and Steve Schlossareck, two individuals who saw more than rubble and risk. They saw history. They saw potential. They saw a story worth saving.

What followed was a meticulous, four-year-long restoration project—a labor of love that aimed not just to rebuild, but to revive. Every piece of wood, every window frame, every brick was carefully assessed and, when necessary, replaced or restored with historical accuracy in mind. This wasn’t just a cosmetic facelift but an act of preservation.

By October 2023, the rebirth was complete. The building was reintroduced to the public, not just as a structure but as a living testament to Martindale’s perseverance. It now houses Duett’s Texas Club on the first floor—a cozy bar and live music venue that draws locals and visitors alike. Above it, five exquisitely designed short-term rental lofts now operate under the name Western 1924 Luxury Lofts.

Each loft is a seamless blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Guests are surrounded by architectural details that speak to the building’s original form—exposed brick, high ceilings, and time-worn textures—while enjoying the comforts of high-end finishes, plush furnishings, and contemporary amenities.

Western 1924 Today: A Hub of Charm and Culture

Today, Western 1924 stands not just as a renovated building, but as a cultural landmark. It is officially recognized as a Texas Historic Landmark and is listed on the U.S. Register of Historic Places. These designations are not given lightly and they represent a recognition of both historical and architectural significance.

Guests staying at the lofts don’t just book a room; they book an experience. They wake up inside a chapter of Martindale’s long and colorful story. Whether it’s a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a history buff seeking authenticity, or a family hoping to explore nearby attractions, Western 1924 offers something unique.

The lofts are also perfectly positioned for visitors looking for things to do in San Marcos, as Martindale sits just a short drive from this vibrant Texas town. Whether tubing down the San Marcos River, shopping in the historic downtown, or exploring nature trails, Western 1924 offers the perfect launchpad for adventure.

In fact, the area is also ideal for anyone searching for San Marcos River lodging with a twist of vintage elegance. The blend of tranquil riverside living with small-town charm makes the experience both memorable and restful.

Preserving the Heart of Martindale

Perhaps what makes Western 1924 most special is how it champions the Martindale history it grew from. The building’s past isn’t buried under drywall or replaced by trendy aesthetics—it’s celebrated, worn proudly like a badge of honor.

Martindale itself is a town rich in texture and character. With a population just shy of 2,000, it might be easy to overlook on the map—but those who visit quickly learn that its charm is undeniable. The town’s gentle pace, historic streets, and welcoming atmosphere make it a hidden gem for those willing to look beyond the usual tourist paths.

Plan Your Stay with Western 1924

So whether you’re visiting for the river, the region, or the remarkable ambiance, Western 1924 offers more than a place to rest, it offers a story to be part of. Guests get to enjoy a beautifully restored space while becoming part of a narrative that spans over a hundred years.

Come for the lofts, stay for the history, and leave with memories rooted in one of Texas’ most fascinating transformations. Book your stay today at Western 1924, and experience Martindale’s past, present, and future in one unforgettable visit.

Click here to view our newly renovated lofts and book with us today!