White House Café and Saloon
Historical marker location:White House Café and Saloon
An important landmark in downtown Floresville, this building dates to the earliest years of the 20th century. Although records have not been found to pinpoint the exact date of construction, it was built sometime between 1902 and 1907. A 1909 newspaper article documents the existence of the White House Restaurant in its second year of operation in the building. Apparently built as a one-story structure, a second story was added by 1912.
About 1910, brothers Henry and Frederick (Fritz) Teltschik, the sons of German immigrants, created a partnership to run the White House Restaurant and lodging here. After 1916, Fritz ran the business by himself and purchased the property in 1921. For the next 50 years, Fritz Teltschik welcomed community meetings, social gatherings and high school students to his restaurant. The White House Café was a popular gathering place in downtown Floresville and retains its historic and architectural character from that time period.
An example of the Victorian Commercial architecture once more common along Texas main streets, the White House Café and Saloon features arched window and transom openings, with brick corbelling on the parapet at the roofline. It remains an important part of the architectural and cultural heritage of Floresville and of Wilson County.
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 2002
As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.
Texas has been a major oil-producing state for over a century. The first big oil discovery in Texas was the Spindletop field near Beaumont in 1901, which set off a massive oil boom that transformed the state's economy and made Texas one of the wealthiest states in the country.
In the early 1800s, the region that is now Wilson County was part of the DeWitt Colony, a settlement established by Green DeWitt. The area played a crucial role in the Texas Revolution, with the Battle of Refugio taking place nearby in 1836. As the conflict between Texas colonists and Mexican forces raged on, the region became a hotbed of activity and witnessed significant military actions.
Wilson County was officially established in 1860, named in honor of James Charles Wilson, a Texas state legislator who fought in the battle of San Jacinto. The county experienced rapid growth in the 19th century due to the establishment of ranching and farming communities. Cattle ranching became a prominent industry, and the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted economic development.
The county faced challenges in the 20th century, including the Great Depression, which resulted in a decline in agricultural productivity. However, the discovery of oil and gas reserves brought renewed economic prosperity to the area. Today, Wilson County is known for its diverse economy, which includes agriculture, oil and gas production, and manufacturing. The region has preserved much of its historical heritage and continues to celebrate its unique cultural and historical significance.
Wilson County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Wilson County, Texas.
- February 13, 1854 - Wilson County established by the Texas legislature
- 1856 - County seat established in Floresville
- Late 1800s - Growth in agriculture sector, primarily cotton farming
- 1902 - Construction of the Wilson County Courthouse completed
- 1930s - Economic decline due to the Great Depression
- 1940s - World War II leads to increased military presence in the area
- Mid-1960s - Oil and gas production becomes a significant industry
- 1970s - Growth in population and expansion of Floresville
- 1998 - The Floresville Peanut Festival established
- 2010 - Rapid population growth and increased development