Holding on to a Legacy in East Austin

Dorothy McPhaul owns Johnnie’s Antiques and Collectibles on East Sixth Street in Austin. The shop is a part of a long line of family businesses started by her grandfather, who opened several antique stores in East Austin in 1918. Now, McPhaul, 86, who was born and raised in Austin, struggles to keep her shop open. She has appeared multiple times before Austin City Council to save her building which she believes was damaged by construction of the multi-story building next door. “I’m putting in my input all the time on why I should exist,” McPhaul said.

[@mylescaggins]

A life well-lived and well-loved 🕊️ Rest in Power Mama Jean

[@jermelhurst631]

I work next door to this place I walk past it everyday it’s so sad all the white people came here and took the culture away

[@brendahughes8672]

How do you make an appointment?

[@jermelhurst631]

Damn this place is closed down

[@zoebrown7697]

Wow, smh. I was hopeful that she was still in business!

[@boodajames6891]

Damnnnnn 😤

[@chuckscott4661]

U sound surprised.

[@melocoop]

She is still in business, but my mother has to do by appointment only until she feels comfortable. We are working a time to bring things back to face the current area.

[@TWN321]

This is business. Business is war. Sentiment and love are not enough to keep a business thriving.