John H. Kampmann, Master Builder

Travel back and take a close look at what it meant to be an architect in the 19th century.

Although relatively unknown in modern day Texas, John H. Kampmann was the master craftsman of his time. Explore Kampmann's lasting legacy alongside Maggie Valentine as she reveals how one man changed the face of the city. From an adobe Spanish village to a city of stone and mortar, Kampmann used his skills as a builder, designer, and civic leader for over thirty years, to leave his mark in San Antonio.


John and Caroline Bonnet Kampmann's descendants ultimately contributed much to the history of the city in their lifespan, and for generations to come. His client list read like a Who's Who, and his work included everything from the Menger Hotel and St. Joseph's Catholic Church, to the Oppenheimer and Eagar houses.


Bringing light to an important chapter in Texas history, Valentine follows the urban fabric of San Antonio and its evolution into a multicultural community as it exemplified social, political, and economic history.