Opened in 1859, the Menger Hotel was originally a two-story limestone building designed by John Fries, with John H. Kampmann acting as contractor. The hotel became an elegant oasis for travelers in what was still a rough, frontier settlement (Williams, 8). It also provided a catalyst for the development of Alamo Plaza. As the San Antonio Herald observed, "Nothing does so much to attract business as a good hotel...a building of commanding appearance and one provided with most comfortable rooms and plenty of fresh air"("Opening of the Menger Hotel").

Copy print showing the west (front) and south facades of the original Menger Hotel. A horse drawn carriage stands in front of the Alamo Street entrance. Blum Street intersects to the south (at right).

Prior to the arrival of the railroad, the Mengers maintained a wagon yard on Blum to accommodate the numerous stagecoaches, carriages, wagons, & horses bringing patrons to their doors (Carter, 201).

View Catalog Record
Menger RTHL Marker Text
Menger History

Courtesy of the San Antonio Conservation Society Foundation, Raba Collection.