George Schweser founded the original Schweser's store, which was constructed in 1886. He became a prominent businessman in the area, and his sons later joined the company. In 1895, The People's Banner described Schweser's Store as the oldest establishment in the city and said it offered a vast selection of general merchandise. Schweser's later grew into a chain of clothing stores in cities across Nebraska. The David City store operated until 1968 and later became Novacek's Department Store. Novacek's closed in 1982, and the Schweser's chain has since gone out of business. The building now houses several businesses and an apartment.