Local fabric store keeping community traditions alive

BROWNSVILLE, Texas (ValleyCentral) — A local business located in Downtown Brownsville has seen generations of families walk in and out of its doors for over 50 years.

El Conquistador Fabric Store, located at 1222 E. Washington Street, is one of the few fabric stores left in Rio Grande Valley.

Juan Kenistein, owner of El Conquistador, took over the family business following his retirement.

Kenistein told ValleyCentral, his parents initially opened their business in the mid-1960s in a building located on 13th Street before opening at their current location in 1977.

He added, his family has always been a part of the fabric business, and he wanted to continue the legacy.

The store has been in business for 54 years, with many locals considering it an integral part of downtown history.

Kensitein said it is wonderful seeing many generations of families visiting the store, with grandparents bringing in their grandchildren, to those children growing up and bringing children of their own.

Kensitein told ValleyCentral that he is proud of supporting local vendors, suppliers and added that his merchandise is made in the USA.

Inside El Conquistador, you will find rows and rows of different colors, styles and textures of fabric.

For those interested in making their clothing or experimenting with making designs, Kensitein recommends starting with satins.

He added, satin is a beautiful, formal fabric that can be made into a nice dress or blouse and can be easier to work with when starting off.

However, if you are looking into making your own slacks for a wedding or prom, you are in luck; El Conquistador has polyester, cotton, linen and any fabric you may need for your trousers.

Kensitein added, he loves working at his family's business and will continue to do so as long as he can.

"I'm 75 and I don't want to quit, so I just keep on coming, and maintain the fabric store that I have," said Kensitein. "It's a passion of mine."

However, Keinsitein is not alone; he is accompanied by the help of his two employees, who have guided him for about 45 years.

He added that he is grateful for their help and loyalty in working for him and his business.

For those interested in looking for fabric or clothing needs, El Conquistador Fabric Store, located at 1222 E. Washington Street, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. all week.