2024-02-11 Presidio La Bahia, Goliad TX

Sunday afternoon we headed just up the road to visit these places.

The Presidio is impressive as you drive up the road.

Before we headed inside, we saw these turkeys crossing the field out front. 

Lots of history in Texas.

More on the Angel of Goliad coming up. 

There is a lot of information on posters and displays inside the museum but it was nice to get outside.

Built in the corner of the Presideo, the church was a big part of the compound.

Just out in front of the Presideo is the birthplace of General Zaragoza. It is actually part of the state park.

I have to admit it. We spent very little time inside this building as the mildew smell was overwhelming although we couldn't see any.

On our way to see the Fannin Memorial, we were surprised and thrilled to see lots of wildflowers...early February!

Even very early bluebonnet peeking out.

The Fannin Memorial is impressive. Names are engraved on the front.

More on the Angel of Goliad that did all she could to help the men that were killed here.

 There are stone tables and benches around this stature donated by and engraved with names of her descendants.

2023-02-12 Col Fannin Memorial and Angel of Goliad

 This memorial is dedicated to Colonel Fannin and his men that were captured and slain at Goliad. Refer to the Presidio La Bahia for more information on the story of Fannin and his men.

There was also info on the Angel of Goliad in thesame post.

Details about Francesca Alavez, the Angel of Goliad sometimes vary a little but there is no doubt that she did a lot of good. She pleaded for better conditions for the men, saved some directly by sneaking them out and hiding them, as well as caring for them and sending messages, and getting provisions for them. Ultimately her husband abandoned her and she lived out her life on the King ranch.

Right next door is the La Bahia cemetery.

This cemetery has been use for many years.

Goliad is a great place to see u lot of Texas history. Be sure visit if you have the opportunity.

2023-02-12 Presidio la Bahia

It's just a very short drive from Goliad State Park to Presidio la Bahia. It's an impressive structure.

Manuel Becerra was important to colonization of this area. He was chosen to accompany Steven F. Austin to find a site for his first colony. 

The presidio was built to provide security for the nearby mission and represented the government's authority.

This area was ideal for raising cattle.

Spain was under seige at home and abroad from the French which led to a desire for independence in the new world.

Mexico initially welcomed colonists to the area that was Texas but disagreements became more frequent.

The Alamo immediately springs to mind when you think of Texas but Goliad was equally important.

There are many stories about the Angel Of Goliad and exactly what her part was in saving Texans from the Mexican army. Remember this when you see an upcoming post about the Angel.

On to a tour of the restored fort.

Each corner of the fort had a ramp leading up to an area where soldiers could see approaching troops and fire on them.

This is the chapel.

A lot of effort was put into restoring the presidio. They did a great job.