Nogalitos Cottage
Designated in 2024 as a Local Landmark!
This former Pure Oil gas station in the Lonestar neighborhood became a testament to climate-wise building practices and catalytic community events focused on repair and reuse.
Built in 1936, this gas station exemplifies the economic heritage of the oil industry that played an important role in the economic growth of the state and the city. It represents a societal shift from older transportation methods to a reliance on personal automobiles, as well as a reminder of the cultural heritage of San Antonio as a crossroads for many historic routes such as the Meridian Highway. It is an important example of a Tudor Style Gas Station and still reflects the original design of Pure Oil Company brand, and is the only remaining Pure Oil Station structure in San Antonio.
This former gas station was the perfect site to demonstrate climate-wise building principles for the 21st century - and to serve as a learning hub for environmental education!
This property was identified through a comprehensive survey of historic gas stations undertaken in 1983 by the San Antonio Conservation Society that was updated and expanded in recent years. It is also eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, which would make rehabilitation eligible for local, state, and national historic tax credits. Nationwide, there are six Pure Oil Stations that have been listed on the National Register. The property became a local landmark in 2024.
