In contrast to the Gibbs Building, which suffered little modification before its restoration, a much altered Reuter Building lost many important architectural features, and even faced demolition in 1977. Only a City Council ordinance that established a one-year freeze on demolition in Alamo Plaza - the city's newest, but much neglected National Register historic district - saved the building from destruction ("Restoration Seen for Plaza").

Developer Tom Wright purchased the Reuter in 1978 and began restoring it through an innovative private-public partnership that included funds from the San Antonio Conservation Society, grants from the Texas Historical Commission, and the state's first federal Urban Development Action Grant ("UDAG to Benefit"). This project helped to spur other redevelopment projects on the plaza.

1.) Looking west at the Reuter Building, located on the corner of Crockett and Alamo Streets, prior to its restoration. The projecting bay windows on the third floor are missing, while the second floor is concealed behind a modern false-front. White paint covers the original red brick.

2.) Scaffolding covers the Reuter Building as it undergoes restoration. Notice the missing bay windows being reconstructed on the third floor.

3.) Mr. Wright presented the Society with an easement on the exterior façade, allowing the Society to permanently oversee and protect the architectural features that define the building's character.

View Catalog Record (Main Image)
View Catalog Record (Image 2)

Courtesy of San Antonio Conservation Society Foundation