Ernst Homestead

Location: 411 S. Presa, San Antonio, TX

Built about 1890, this home was constructed on land bordering the Mission Concepcion Acequia (Canal). In 1896 the site was purchased by Prussian Native William Ernnst (1830-1904), a former mail carrier between Fredericksburg and San Antonio. Ernst acquired a reputation as a talented cook, and while in Mexico during the U.S. Civil War, he prepared a supper for Emperor Maximilan. His culinary skills earned him an appointment to the Emperor's staff as a chef. After Maximilian's Execution in 1867, Ernst returned to San Antonio, where he operated a restaurant on Alamo Plaza.