Blum Brothers General Store, 1905

Original Location: 2010 Lobo Street, Dallas

The general store was an institution throughout the United States in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

It carried everything from fresh produce to canned goods, from clothing to patent medicines, and from seeds to farm implements. Because the storekeeper often extended credit to regular customers, he played a vital economic role in the community. The general store was also a social center, where people shopped, visited, and discussed the news of the day.

This building was constructed by German immigrant storekeepers without professional carpentry help. The paneling on the ceiling and walls was recycled from older buildings, and under the current paint are many different hues. The building remained in the family until 1972, when the museum acquired it.

Fun Fact: The storekeepers had an early telephone and were able to take orders which they delivered by horse-drawn wagon.