Austin, Travis County
Jean Schneider built a structure at the northwest corner of Guadalupe and Live Oak (later 2nd) streets circa 1860, with the intention of establishing a brewery. His death in 1862 prevented the opening of the business. Jean’s son, Jacob Peter, and his widow, Margarita, opened a store circa 1870 at the same location, and a stone “vault” built by Jean as part of the foundation was used for storage. The Schneider’s built a new store across the street in 1873, and the old store became known as the “Flour House” and was used for storage. A tunnel was later built under 2nd Street, connecting the two buildings. Although the original Schneider store no longer exists, the underground “Vault” remains. (2009)