Menger Soap Works

In 1850, Johann Nicholaus Simon opened a soap and candle factory, which became his source of income. This business, which was San Antonio's first industrial enterprise, prospered even after Menger's death. This factory is the oldest industrial building in Texas. After Menger died, the business was taken over by his son, Erich, who operated the factory until the end of World War One. This factory on San Pedro Creek was also possibly the first soap factory in the Southwest.

In the early 1970's it became part of an apartment complex. People consider it an example of pre-Civil War industrial architecture. The limestone rubble walls and rough cut quoins and voussoirs enclose the offices of the residential complex today. It is located at 500 North Santa Rosa Street.

Bibliography:
A Guide to San Antonio Architecture, 1986, page 33