Galveston City Council approves landmark designation for Central Park Store building

The Galveston City Council has taken a significant step towards preserving local history by approving an ordinance to designate the property at 2116 Post Office Avenue E as a Galveston landmark. This decision, made during the council meeting on April 24, 2025, aims to recognize the historical and cultural importance of the Central Park Store building, which has been a part of the community since its construction in 1914.

The landmark designation will allow the property to be officially recorded in the public records of Galveston County, providing it with certain protections and potential tax relief to encourage its preservation. The building, originally constructed in the Chicago commercial style, has served various purposes over the decades, most notably as a drugstore established by pharmacist Andrew F. Dickerson in 1921.

During the meeting, Julie Baker, who conducted the research for the landmark application, emphasized the significance of the stories tied to the building rather than just its architectural style. She shared anecdotes about the building's past, including its connection to local residents who frequented the drugstore and the impact it had on their lives.

Clyde Wood, the current owner of the building, also spoke in favor of the designation, highlighting the many stories shared with him by patrons over the years. Both Baker and Wood, former members of the Landmark Commission, expressed their gratitude to the council for considering the application.

The council's approval of this landmark designation not only honors the building's rich history but also reinforces the city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage for future generations. As Galveston continues to grow and evolve, such initiatives play a crucial role in maintaining the community's unique identity.