In 1878 Henry D. Gruene (1850-1920) established a mercantile business at this site. To provide more space for the growing business, this building was erected in 1904, one year after the local post office name changed from Goodwin to Gruene. The mercantile served as the community's business and social center until 1938. The brick structure features corbelled cornices and reflects influences of both Classical Revival and Richardsonian Romanesque styles. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1987