Looking at the Past

While construction crews continue their work on Water Street, we’re taking a moment to reflect on where this journey began.

Before it became the future home of the Heart of the Hills Heritage Center, the A.C. and Myrta Schreiner House was just that—a beloved family home, full of charm, character, and history. When the City of Kerrville received this generous gift, it inherited not just a building, but a legacy.

Those fortunate enough to have visited the house during its time as a private residence may recognize the foyer—a space that welcomed generations of family and friends. This is what the entrance looked like just a few short months ago, before renovations began.

Throughout the ground floor, original hardwood floors, a marble fireplace, coffered ceilings, and ornate light fixtures speak to the home’s elegance and craftsmanship. The staircase includes a beautiful built-in display case with stained glass doors—a truly unique feature we are preserving with care.

One of the most striking qualities of the house is its light. Large windows open to the surrounding gardens, filling the space with sunshine and a connection to the natural beauty outside. Upstairs, traces remain of the home’s long life as a family residence—details that remind us of its warmth and its story.

Transforming a cherished home into a community museum is no small task. It requires care, sensitivity, and a deep respect for the past. But that’s exactly what the Heart of the Hills Heritage Center is here to do.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue this exciting and meaningful transformation.