HUNT, Texas – The Hunt Store was a central piece of the community before the devastating flood last year, and the owners promise it will be again.
“It really is the heartbeat of the community. And when we lost it in the flood, we learned that it’s not really something of convenience; it’s a necessity and something the community truly does depend on,” owner John Dunn said.
The iconic Hunt Store, established at its current location in 1946 and updated in 1973, has been a staple for local residents. “Everybody identifies with the iconic stone and timber walls,” Dunn added, highlighting the store’s deep-rooted significance.
John and his wife, Vikki Dunn, owned the store for years before selling it in 2024. They have recently reacquired it to lead its rebuilding efforts.
While they financially manage the store, John and Vikki prefer to call themselves stewards rather than owners, a philosophy passed down from previous operators. “You can pay all the money on it, but you’re not the owner. You’re only the steward, and you’re going to manage it, and you’re going to make it better for the next generation,” John explained.
This stewardship reflects the sentiment that the Hunt Store truly belongs to the community it serves, a reality that became even clearer after the flood.
“We still had our group that comes every day and has a couple of beers and a glass of wine. They came! I don’t think they missed a day once we got some temporary tents set up here,” Vikki shared, emphasizing the community’s resilience and support.
Phase one of recovery involves a smaller building adjacent to the Hunt Store, now called the Mini Hunt Store. This building, which previously housed real estate offices, sustained minimal damage during the flood.
“The food and beverage are what the community is asking for most right now, and so we want to support that,” John noted. Music is also a vital part of the plan, as it serves as a unifying force for the community.
The back of the Mini Store will feature a pavilion and a stage, creating a space for community gatherings and events.
The second phase involves restoring the original Hunt Store, including salvaged elements like the iconic fireplace, which has been a gathering place for years. Remarkably, it was one of the few structures that survived the floodwaters.
“With the force of water that came through here, it’s almost miraculous, really,” Vikki remarked. The front doors of the store, which have been there for decades, also survived the deluge.
Phase three will encompass the full rebuild of the Hunt Store, which is projected to include a fuel system, convenience store, restaurant, and café by 2026-2027.
John mentioned that while there are limitations on grant funding for businesses, he is optimistic that the fuel and food services will generate additional revenue, given their essential nature to the local community.
As the one-year anniversary of the flood approaches, the significance of recovery resonates deeply within the community.
“I certainly see the progress we made. At the same time, I know there are people who are still hurting and still suffering,” John reflected. The determination to rebuild is driven not just by business goals but by a commitment to the neighbors and community they cherish.
Watch the entire One Year after Hill Country Flood special in the media player below:
