Businessman and Civic Leader Emil Elmendorf (1850-1898) had this residence constructed in 1884 while he was part owner of Elmendorf and Co. a large San Antonio hardware firm. Designed by noted architect Alfred Giles, the house incorporates both Greek Revival and Victorian styling. It is one of the city's few remaining examples of the raised cottage plan, which features a basement above ground with the main floor on the second level.