A distinctive Dignowity Hill home listed this week for $1.4 million comes packed with plenty of cool history. Literally.
By “cool,” we mean the Queen Anne Victorian dwelling was built in 1906 by Ed Friedrich, the businessman behind San Antonio’s Friedrich Air Conditioning empire.
Friedrich founded his company in the late 1880s to produce handcrafted furniture — billiards tables and store fixtures were among his specialties. Over time, he began producing ice-cooled refrigerators and other equipment to help preserve food.
As refrigeration shifted from block ice to mechanical cooling systems, Friedrich moved along, and by the early ’50s, his namesake company was cranking out commercial air-conditioning units. Indeed, it grew into a dominant player in that market and eventually launched a massive factory on San Antonio’s East Side.
Friedrich Air Conditioning has since moved its production work to Mexico and been acquired by rival Rheem, but the founder’s stately home still exists — and it’s been beautifully restored.
A castle-like turret towers above the two-story, 3,000-square-foot dwelling, and the home also features a distinctive octagonal living room where tall windows allow light to flow over a fireplace equipped with a beautifully carved mantel and intricate tile work.
Each room in the five-bedroom, three-bath structure features its own unique chandelier, some showcasing German crystals and others French lamp shades, according to the sales listing. The grand foyer’s antique staircase leads the way to eight-foot-tall vintage pocket doors that offer access to the second floor.
The property’s wraparound balcony offers views of downtown high rises, the Hays Street Bridge, Alamodome and Dignowity Park, according to its listing. Even if the air-conditioning plant run by its famous owner is no longer around.
“The Friedrich House provided luxury and comfort while allowing Mr. Friedrich a clear view and quick access to his factory a few blocks away,” the listing notes.
This home is listed by Eric Salinas with Real Broker LLC.
All photos and listing info via Realtor.com.
Every house has a story, and our mission is to tell San Antonio’s story through the lens of our community’s historic and colorful homes. The San Antonio Current’s real estate features are not ads, and are strictly operated through our editorial department. But we love public input. Do you know of a unique San Antonio home that we should highlight? Let us know, and email skoithan@sacurrent.com.
