San Antonio is a city in Texas that is defined by a rich history. From its old missions, the Old West, Battle of Alamo, discovery by Spanish explorers, and the occupation by Native Americans, this is a place whose history is highly fascinating.
The area known as San Antonio was explored by Spanish expeditions for the first time in 1691. Originally, this regions was inhabited by a small Indian community known as the Yanaguana. These explorers crossed the river on the feat day of St. Anthony; hence they named it San Antonio.
The city was, however, founded by Father Antonio Olivares in 1718 when he started a mission and named it Mission San Antonio de Valero.
After a few years, the Canary Islanders chartered five missions which were located along the River. In 1749, the Spanish Governor’s Palace, originally known the Presidial Captain’s House was completed on Military Plaza. In 1758, the San Fernando de Bexar Church was constructed. Following these swift developments, San Antonio de Bexar was made the capital of the Spanish Texas.
By the end of the 19th century, majority of the population was made up of poor Indian communities and settlers. Visitors called this place ‘miserable.’ The core purpose of the missions changed, and they were used for other purposes. The Mission San Antonio de Valero was converted into a military barrack and was later renamed Alamo.
During the period of the Texas Revolution, San Antonio became the battleground for several wars. Some of them include the popular battle of Alamo in 1836, and the Siege of Bexar in 1835. Consistent battles made this city one of the most fought-over territories in the Northern part of America.
The battles led to a decline in population and by the end of 1846, the population stood at 800 people. When Texas was chartered to join the Union, the City started growing rapidly. It became one of the best servicing and distribution centers in the US. By 1860, the population had grown to a whopping 8,000 people.
The civil war saw the state of Texas secede. The glory of San Antonio stated fading, but when rose again when the state was chartered again in 1870. The city became a major supplier of cattle trail drives. The wool market also thrived. In 1877, the San Antonio and Harrisburg Railways crossed the city, and a new era of economic growth came.
In the 20th century, lots of developments were seen. More railroads reached the city and population grew tremendously. Different economic activities dominated the city, and architectural developments created some of the charms that draw millions of visitors to this city every year.
Today, this city is renowned for the Alamo, Riverwalk, and The Tower of the Americas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, San Antonio Museum of Art, and the SeaWorld theme Parks, . There are also various parks, museums, and other attractions you can see in this amazing destination.
If you are looking for a place to stay in the United States, San Antonio should be at the helm of your list thanks to its amazing residential centers with crucial amenities such as schools, health centers, security agencies, and recreational facilities.