Toward the back of the room, a glass armoire holds books, pictures, ornaments and other artifact-type items, creating a collection of historical relics that could easily assemble the life of the 100-year-old building.

Built in 1902, Keenan’s men's clothing store is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

"It was built to withstand an atomic bomb," owner Jack Keenan said.

The building was constructed by George Hirsh, a immigrant from Bavaria, Germany, who came to the United States in 1873 when he was 17 years old.

In 1887, Hirsh moved to Austin where he opened several shops on Main Street. In 1902, he open the Hirsh Clothing Company as a two-story store at the current location on 500 N Main St.

The building, which has survived two fires and one tornado, is half its original size.

A fire in 1923 destroyed much of the building and later in 1928, it suffered roof damage after a tornado blew through town.

"It was like a miracle that it left this one standing. It has walls about 14 inches thick," Keenan joked.

Hirsh's business prospered and in later years his sons, Alex and Rephah ran the business through the mid-60s.

"It has always been sustained. The town has supported the building through the Depression, recession, the 60s and the 70s. It has been through all the cycles. The most valuable asset that this or any store can have is its customers. We have a lot of loyal customers," Keenan said.

The store still carries Hart Schaffner & Marx, one of the original clothes lines accounts that the Hirsh's began the store with. Keenan credits the line for the sale of thousands of suits over the years.

Keenan's has its own tailor shop in the store, with two full-time tailors. "That's really a jewel. It offers altering on the spot," Keenan said.

According to Keenan, the most popular item has always been the black and navy blazer. "It's permanent in everyone's wardrobe, and we promote them all the time."

Keenan purchased the store from the Hirsh's in 1967.

Roxana Orellana can be reached at 434-2214 or by e-mail at roxana.orellana@austindailyherald.com