H-E-B: A Storied History in Kerrville, Texas

When it comes to the heart and soul of Texas grocery shopping, H-E-B stands out as a true Lone Star State icon. But did you know that this beloved supermarket chain has deep roots right here in Kerrville? From its humble beginnings to its status as one of the largest, most recognized supermarket chains in Texas, H-E-B’s journey is a fascinating tale of perseverance, innovation, and community spirit. Let's take a walk through the history of H-E-B in Kerrville and how this small-town enterprise grew into the giant it is today.

Florence Butt
Photo Credit: Texas State Historical Association

The story of H-E-B starts in 1905, when Florence Butt moved to Kerrville with her family and opened a small grocery store on the ground floor of her home on Main Street. With just $60 in savings, the "C.C. Butt Grocery Store" began serving the local community, offering fresh produce, canned goods, and other essentials. Florence's dedication to providing quality goods at reasonable prices quickly made her store a vital part of the Kerrville community.

At a time when women rarely ran businesses, Florence’s pioneering spirit shone brightly. She managed to keep the store running successfully, even during tough economic times, ensuring that the people of Kerrville always had a place to buy their daily necessities.

In 1919, Florence's youngest son, Howard Edward Butt, took over the family business, eager to expand and bring the store into a new era. Howard’s innovative vision led him to introduce modern grocery store practices, including self-service shopping, which was revolutionary at the time. He also rebranded the store as "H.E. Butt Grocery," which would later be shortened to the now-familiar "H-E-B."

By the 1920s, H-E-B had begun expanding beyond Kerrville, with new stores opening in nearby communities. Howard's dedication to customer service, quality products, and community involvement laid the foundation for the company’s success. It wasn't long before H-E-B became known as a reliable and trustworthy place to shop.

Though H-E-B eventually expanded its reach far beyond Kerrville, the town always remained special to the company. The original Kerrville store was a cornerstone of the local community, providing employment opportunities and supporting countless community events. Even as the company grew into other cities and regions, H-E-B stayed true to its roots, with its headquarters remaining in Texas, reflecting the company's commitment to the communities it serves.

Florence Butt behind counter
Photo Credit: Texas State Historical Association More>

In the years that followed, H-E-B introduced new store formats, expanded its product lines, and invested in its staff and customers. The company's commitment to community service became a defining aspect of its identity, with H-E-B supporting local charities, schools, and events across Kerrville and the broader Hill Country.

Today, H-E-B is one of the largest privately-owned supermarket chains in the United States, with over 400 stores across Texas and Mexico. But despite its massive growth, the company has never forgotten its Kerrville roots. The local H-E-B store continues to be an integral part of the community, serving as a place not just for groceries but for gathering, connection, and support.

Original C.C. Butt Grocery Store
Photo Credit - H.E.B

In recent years, H-E-B has modernized its Kerrville location to better serve its customers, introducing innovations like curbside pickup, expanded organic offerings, and a greater emphasis on locally sourced products. These changes reflect the company’s commitment to evolving with the times while still holding on to the values that have defined it for over a century.

One of the most inspiring aspects of H-E-B’s story is its unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. From sponsoring local events to supporting food banks and providing disaster relief, H-E-B has proven time and again that it is more than just a grocery store—it’s a neighbor, a friend, and a trusted partner.

In Kerrville, H-E-B’s presence is felt in countless ways. The store frequently donates to local schools, sponsors community events, and supports charitable organizations that make a difference in the lives of residents. This dedication to service is a testament to the legacy left by Florence Butt and Howard Edward Butt, whose vision was always about more than just selling groceries.

The history of H-E-B in Kerrville is more than a tale of business success; it’s a story of family, community, and the spirit of Texas. From Florence Butt’s small grocery store on Main Street to the expansive supermarket chain we know today, H-E-B has remained true to its mission: to serve the people of Texas with quality, care, and compassion.

As Kerrville continues to grow and change, one thing remains constant: H-E-B’s dedication to this community. It’s a relationship that has stood the test of time and will no doubt continue to thrive for generations to come. So, next time you step into your local H-E-B, take a moment to remember the rich history that started right here in Kerrville—and know that you’re part of a legacy that’s truly Texan.

Special thanks to Joe Herring Jr. and the Texas State Historical Association for history and photos on H-E-B and their legacy.