Presidio La Bahia State Historic Site

Presidio La Bahía State Historic Site, operated by the Texas Historical Commission, was established in 1749 and is considered the world's finest example of a Spanish frontier fort. This is the most fought over fort in Texas history, participating in six National Revolutions/Wars for independence. Spanish, Mexican, and Texas soldiers all garrisoned its fortified walls. This “Crossroads of Revolution” felt almost every attempt to forcibly change the governmental order of Texas.

 

During the American Revolution, Bernardo de Galvez, the Spanish Governor of Louisiana, provided vital supplies and military support to the colonists, ultimately helping to secure their victory against the British. Upon his request for cattle from Texas, troops at the Presidio and residents of La Bahia contributed cattle, horses, and money to Galvez’s efforts, while also providing assistance with the cattle drives along El Camino Real into Louisiana.

 

Later, as a witness to filibustering expeditions and playing a role in the Mexican war for independence from Spain, the Presidio was the site of the Goliad Massacre in March of 1836. It played host to one of the bloodiest chapters in Texas' quest for independence from Mexico after the shocking Texian defeat at the Battle of Coleto Creek. The massacre prompted the rallying cry, "Remember Goliad" heard at the Battle of San Jacinto.