Julius Joske, a German Jewish immigrant who arrived in Texas in 1873, opened a store eventually known as Joske Bros. His son, Alexander (1858-1925), purchased his father’s and brother’s interest in the company in 1903. Joske’s would become one of the largest retailers in the state. Alexander was also a noted philanthropist, religious and community leader. Alexander, his wife, Blanch (Frank) (1869-1927), and their two children lived here from 1892 and 1924. Built in 1882, the home was extensively expanded and remodeled by architect Solon McAdoo’s 1901 design. It is one of the first neoclassical residences in the city, featuring a full-height porch and limestone basket handle arch surmounting the oak front door.