Preservation Austin Honors 10 Iconic Family Businesses for Legacy Month

By Lucero Corona

Reporting Texas

Inside Sam’s Bar-B-Que, the checkout counter displays materials for Legacy Business Month. Lucero Corona/ReportingTexasTV

As  Austin’s skylines continue to grow, a local preservation initiative is shining a spotlight on the city’s oldest family-owned businesses. 

In 2023, Mayor Kirk Watson officially proclaimed October as Legacy Business Month, recognizing the importance of celebrating “Old Austin” and the businesses that have shaped the city’s unique character. This year, Preservation Austin hosted its third annual celebration, honoring 10 family-owned establishments that have operated for more than 20 years.

“Our legacy businesses are the foundation and fabric of our communities,” said Miriam Conner, board president of Preservation Austin. 

The kickoff celebration took place at Zilker Brewing Co., where this year’s featured businesses were announced.

One of this year’s honorees, Sam’s Bar-B-Que, has served East Austin since 1957 and remains the last Black-owned business on East 12th Street. Despite fires, economic challenges, and neighborhood gentrification, it continues to be one of the city’s most beloved barbecue institutions.

During the pandemic, Sam’s Bar-B-Que struggled as lockdowns slowed business. To adapt, the family opened the Austin Daiquiri Factory, a sister business aimed at attracting younger customers and sustaining the restaurant’s legacy.

Over the years, Sam’s has become more than just a restaurant. It’s a gathering place where food, family and history come together under one roof.

“We are still holding the legacy,” said Ebony Mays, daughter of owner Brian Mays. “That’s more important than anything—to keep the family business alive. My grandpa wanted it to continue, so we make sure it keeps going. We’re not selling out; we are not doing none of that.”

That dedication captures the spirit of Legacy Business Month — honoring family-run businesses that refuse to fade away, even as the city around them changes.

This year’s celebration also includes the Legacy Business Month Passport, where each page features one of the 10 recognized businesses: Antone’s, Mr. Natural, Sam’s Bar-B-Que, Oilcan Harry’s, Saxon Pub, Terra Toys, Shandeez Grill, Mozart’s, Room Service Vintage and Aussie’s Grill & Beach Bar.

Visitors can collect stamps at each location and turn in completed passports at the wrap-up party Nov. 5 at The Saxon Pub. Prizes include two SXSW 2026 wristbands and spa packages — all part of an effort to keep Austin’s legacy alive, one business at a time.