The Koenig family owned a grocery store in the Loveland Block for 54 years. Nick Koenig was born in Switzerland, grew up in Pennsylvania, and arrived in Golden in 1878. He was a partner in a dry goods store in the Opera House Block (now the Ace Hi Tavern) before buying the grocery business in 1884.
Mr. Koenig prospered and was a leading citizen, serving as school board member, alderman, and Mayor. He suffered a stroke in his office at the store in 1925 and died at his home on 12th Street a few days later. His family continued to operate the store until 1938.
87 Years Ago
The September 29, 1938 Colorado Transcript included an advertisement announcing the change of ownership at the venerable grocery store. Koenig’s Mercantile had been purchased by the Branch family, who renamed it the “Golden Mercantile.”
