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Welcome to The San Antonio Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Airport lands long-term commitments from major airlines.

• Upcoming Matute concert

• A deep-dive into the life of Julius Joske

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Your passion is waiting for your courage to catch up.” 

—Isabelle Lafleche

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Trivia

What is the name of the San Antonio cultural event that showcases traditional Mexican folk dance and music, known for its colorful costumes and lively performances?

A) The San Antonio Flamenco Festival

B) The Tejano Conjunto Festival

C) The Texas Folklife Festival

D) Fiesta Noche del Rio

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic San Antonio structure known for its gothic revival architecture and serving as the oldest active cathedral sanctuary in the United States is A) The San Fernando Cathedral.

💼 Business

$58M downtown Residence Inn hotel to break ground soon. (Link)

San Antonio Secures $2.96M to Reconnect Downtown and East Side. (Link)

🏒 Sports

Arch Manning takes over for injured Quinn Ewers, leads No. 2 Texas to 56-7 rout of UTSA. (Link)

Sam Leavitt’s passing and running rallies Arizona State past Texas State 31-28. (Link)

🏦 Finance

Airport lands long-term commitments from major airlines. (Link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

🏈 Northern Arizona Lumberjacks at Incarnate Word Cardinals Football
Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium, San Antonio
Saturday, Sep 21 | (More info)

🏐 North Texas Mean Green at UTSA Roadrunners Women's Volleyball
UTSA Convocation Center, San Antonio
Friday, Sep 27 | (More info)

Music & Concerts

🎶 JOSEPH
Stable Hall, San Antonio
Saturday, Sep 21 | (More info)

🎤 Matute
Boeing Center at Tech Port, San Antonio
Sunday, Sep 22 | (More info)

Family

🦕 Free Kids Event: Dino Day (San Antonio)
327 N.W. Loop 410, San Antonio
Saturday, Sep 21 | (More info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Futuristic urban zoo in San Antonio with holographic animals” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

San Antonio Historical Events

Trinity University Relocation to San Antonio (1942): Boosting the city's educational profile.

In 1942, Trinity University made a historic move to San Antonio, marking a significant milestone in the city's educational landscape. The relocation of Trinity University to San Antonio brought with it a wave of academic excellence and cultural enrichment, boosting the city's educational profile. As a result, San Antonio became a hub for higher education, attracting students and scholars from across the country. The move also fostered a spirit of innovation and collaboration, as Trinity University's presence in San Antonio contributed to the city's reputation as a center for intellectual growth and academic achievement.

The relocation of Trinity University to San Antonio in 1942 had a profound impact on the city's cultural and intellectual fabric. The university's arrival brought new opportunities for academic advancement and research, elevating San Antonio's status as a destination for higher learning. Trinity University's relocation to San Antonio not only enriched the city's educational landscape but also contributed to the overall growth and development of the community, fostering a legacy of academic excellence and innovation that continues to thrive to this day.

Today, Trinity University stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of its relocation to San Antonio in 1942. The university's presence has not only shaped the educational profile of the city but has also played a pivotal role in shaping the minds of future leaders and innovators. Trinity University's relocation to San Antonio remains a pivotal moment in the city's history, leaving an indelible mark on the educational, cultural, and intellectual landscape of San Antonio.

Famous People From San Antonio

Julius Joske - Founder of Joske's, one of the first major department stores in Texas.

Julius Joske was born in 1873 to a family deeply rooted in Prussian tradition. His parents, Hermann and Johanna Joske, were immigrants who sought new opportunities in the United States amidst the vast wave of European migration in the 19th century. Settling first in the Midwest, they soon found their way to Texas, a state that was rapidly growing both in population and industrial opportunities. Julius grew up in a household where the values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance were paramount. His father, a businessman with a keen eye for opportunity, played a pivotal role in shaping Julius’s entrepreneurial mindset From an early age, Julius exhibited a curiosity for commerce and industry, often accompanying his father to local markets and trade fairs. His education was supplemented by hands-on experience, learning the intricacies of accounting, negotiation, and customer relations. By the time he entered his teenage years, Julius had developed a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of building a business from the ground up.

Joske Brothers & Co.: The Birth of an Empire (1895-1905)

In 1895, at the age of 22, Julius Joske, along with his brother, co-founded Joske Brothers & Co., a general store in San Antonio, Texas. The city was beginning to boom with the arrival of the railroad, and Julius knew that a strategically placed business could flourish. Starting with humble offerings of dry goods, clothing, and household essentials, the Joske brothers worked tirelessly to grow their enterprise San Antonio, with its mix of cultures, emerging industries, and growing population, provided fertile ground for the company’s expansion. Julius was particularly attuned to the needs of the local population, which included a diverse array of settlers, ranchers, and military personnel. As a result, Joske Brothers & Co. quickly became a household name. Julius's keen sense of market trends and his ability to adapt to the evolving needs of his customers enabled him to outpace competitors.

Expansion and Innovation (1905-1915)

By the early 1900s, Joske Brothers & Co. had outgrown its original space, prompting Julius to pursue larger and more ambitious ventures. In 1909, he oversaw the construction of a grand, four-story building in downtown San Antonio, which was not only a statement of the company's success but also a reflection of the city's rising economic status. This iconic department store offered a wide range of goods, from clothing and jewelry to home furnishings and agricultural equipment. One of Julius's innovations was the introduction of a credit system, allowing customers to purchase goods and pay in installments. This forward-thinking approach opened up opportunities for many residents who might not have otherwise afforded such luxuries. His emphasis on customer service and satisfaction, combined with his commitment to quality products, made Joske’s a beloved institution in San Antonio.

Building the Joske Legacy in San Antonio (1915-1925)

Julius Joske’s contributions to San Antonio extended beyond his business. As his wealth grew, so did his involvement in the civic and cultural life of the city. He was an ardent supporter of various philanthropic causes, including education, healthcare, and public infrastructure. Joske became known not only as a successful businessman but also as a visionary leader dedicated to the development of San Antonio Under Julius's leadership, the department store became a cultural hub for the city. He frequently sponsored local events, supported the arts, and advocated for the preservation of San Antonio’s historic landmarks. His commitment to the city’s growth endeared him to the residents, and his name became synonymous with the economic and social progress of the early 20th century.

The Challenges of War and Economic Uncertainty (1925-1935)

The years between 1925 and 1935 were marked by significant challenges for Julius Joske and his business. The Great Depression and the impact of World War I created an unstable economic environment. Many businesses in San Antonio were forced to close, but Joske’s department store persevered due to Julius’s ability to pivot and find creative solutions One of his strategies involved diversifying the store's offerings to include more affordable goods. This move ensured that Joske’s remained accessible to the wider population, even during times of financial hardship. Additionally, Julius remained committed to keeping his employees on the payroll, often dipping into his own savings to ensure that families in San Antonio would continue to have work. His leadership during these difficult years earned him widespread respect and loyalty.

Family Life and Personal Reflections (1935-1945)

Julius Joske’s personal life was deeply intertwined with his business success, but he was also a devoted family man. He married Clara Rosenberg in 1900, and together they raised three children, all of whom would later play roles in the family business. Julius was a man of modest tastes despite his considerable wealth, and he was known for his humility and commitment to his community As a father, he emphasized the importance of education and hard work, values that he had inherited from his own parents. Julius often took his children on trips to the store, teaching them the intricacies of commerce and customer service. His personal philosophy of business as a means to serve the community, rather than simply a vehicle for profit, left a lasting impression on his descendants.

The Golden Years of Joske’s Department Store (1945-1955)

The post-World War II years brought a new era of prosperity to San Antonio and to Joske’s department store. Julius, though in his later years, remained an active participant in the business, guiding his children and grandchildren in its continued expansion. The store became a cornerstone of San Antonio’s retail industry, offering everything from the latest fashions to cutting-edge technology. Julius introduced new departments to cater to the city’s changing demographic, and the store became known for its inclusive atmosphere, welcoming shoppers from all backgrounds. It became a symbol of modernity and progress in the city, further solidifying the Joske family’s legacy.

The Decline and Sale of the Business (1955-1965)

By the mid-1950s, the retail landscape began to change with the rise of national chain stores and shopping malls. Julius, now in his 80s, saw the writing on the wall. Though Joske’s remained a beloved institution, the challenges of competing with larger, more expansive businesses began to take their toll. In 1965, Julius made the difficult decision to sell the department store to a larger retail chain, bringing an end to an era in San Antonio’s history While the sale marked the conclusion of the family’s direct involvement in the business, Julius remained proud of what he had built. His decision to sell was made with the future in mind, ensuring that Joske’s would continue to serve San Antonio for years to come, even if under different ownership.

Philanthropy and Civic Contributions (1965-1970)

In the final years of his life, Julius devoted much of his time and wealth to philanthropic endeavors. His deep love for San Antonio remained steadfast, and he continued to support various causes in the city. He established scholarships for local students, funded the construction of public parks, and donated to several hospitals and cultural institutions Julius's contributions to San Antonio went far beyond the business world. His civic engagement earned him numerous accolades and recognition, including the key to the city in 1968. He was widely regarded as one of the city's most important benefactors and remained a beloved figure until his death.

Legacy and Death (1970-1974)

Julius Joske passed away in 1974 at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate in San Antonio. Though Joske’s department store no longer bears the family name, its impact on the city’s commercial and cultural life is still felt. His vision, commitment to community, and business acumen laid the foundation for modern retail in the region. Today, Julius is remembered as a pioneering entrepreneur who helped shape the identity of San Antonio. His life was a testament to the power of perseverance, innovation, and a deep love for one's community. His contributions, both through his business and his philanthropy, have ensured that his name will be remembered for generations to come.

Key Achievements:

• Co-founded Joske Brothers & Co., a prominent department store in San Antonio, in 1895.

• Expanded the store into one of the largest retailers in Texas by the early 20th century.

• Pioneered the use of credit systems for customers in the retail industry.

• Played a significant role in the civic and cultural development of San Antonio, supporting education, healthcare, and public infrastructure.

• Survived economic downturns and maintained the business through the Great Depression and the post-war era.

• Sold Joske’s to a larger retail chain in 1965, ensuring its continued operation under new ownership.

• Awarded the key to the city of San Antonio in 1968 for his philanthropic contributions.

Summary: Julius Joske was a visionary businessman who founded Joske Brothers & Co., transforming it into a leading retail institution in San Antonio, Texas. His leadership and innovations in customer service and credit systems revolutionized the retail industry, and his philanthropic work greatly impacted the city's cultural and civic landscape. Julius’s legacy continues to shape San Antonio, where his name remains synonymous with progress and community service.

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