The Brownwood Area Chamber of Commerce posted the following information on social media:
What once felt like a devastating loss has become a powerful story of resilience, restoration, and revival in Downtown Brownwood.
We were honored to celebrate the reopening of the DeBusk Building at 114 Center Ave, home of Brownwood Enterprises, following last year’s tragic fire that impacted Lucille + Mabel Kitchen and Libations. Since then, the building has undergone extensive renovations and thoughtful improvements, restoring both function and beauty to this historic space.
This cornerstone of Brownwood has stood for well over a century. Records show the lot sat vacant in 1885 before a bank building emerged by 1888. Construction of the current structure began in 1903, was completed in 1909, and officially opened in 1910—quickly earning recognition as Brownwood’s first “high-rise.”
It marked a major step from frontier life into modern living, becoming the first commercial building in Brown County with an elevator and indoor plumbing. Originally built for the Brownwood National Bank (later First National Bank of Brownwood), the space has housed countless businesses over the years—from dentists and land agents to various offices serving the community.
Through notable chapters in its history, including past ownership connected to Governor John Connally, and decades of growth, the DeBusk family has proudly stewarded this building since the early 1980s—preserving its legacy while continuing to invest in its future.
Today, the building stands restored and thriving once again, home to multiple businesses including Texas Parks & Wildlife—and offering dozens of office spaces, with approximately two dozen currently available for lease for those looking to be part of Downtown Brownwood’s continued momentum.
For leasing information, contact Clint DeBusk at cdebusk1@austin.rr.com
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support this true monument of Brownwood, and to those who helped preserve and share its rich history—especially Caiden Tyler, Brown County Historian VP.
Today wasn’t just about reopening doors—it was about honoring the past, celebrating perseverance, and stepping boldly into what’s next.
Welcome back, Brownwood Enterprises. We are thrilled to bring on yet another amazing company and meaningful piece of Brown County to the Chamber