Historical Marker

Presidio de Nuestra Senora de Loreto de la Bahia

Historical marker location:
Goliad, Texas
( From Goliad, take US 183/77A south about 1 mile to Presidio Chapel entrance on Spur 71.)
Marker installed: 1969
Marker size: 27" x 42"

(Fort of Our Lady of Loreto of the Bay)

One of the most historic Spanish forts in Texas. Popularly called Presidio la Bahia, it was founded on Espiritu Santo (present Lavaca) Bay in 1722. Twice moved, it was re-established here in 1749 to protect Espiritu Santo Mission (1/4 mi. NW). In the chapel is the statue of Our Lady of Loreto placed here in 1749.

The turbulent history of this fort has often rung with the sound of revolution. Between 1812 and 1820 several irregular "filibustering" forces, including the Gutierrez-Magee Expedition and others led by James Long and Henry Perry, occupied or assailed the fort for various idealistic and profiteering motives.

Here, too, 92 Texas citizens and soldiers drew up and signed Texas' first formal Declaration of Independence on December 20, 1835. In the ensuing War for Texas Independence, Col. James Fannin and 341 prisoners of war were held and, on Palm Sunday, 1836, were massacred in and around the fort by their Mexican captors.

When the fort was authentically restored, 1963-67, by the Kathryn O'Connor Foundation, nine "levels of occupancy" were uncovered. Church services are now held in the chapel. The presidio has been named a registered National Historic Landmark.

Recorded Teas Historic Landmark--1969

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

Spanish immigrants immigration missions forts military topics
The world's first rodeo was held in Pecos, Texas in 1883. The event included bronco riding, calf roping, and bull riding.
Texas random facts
Goliad County, Texas, has a rich and layered history that dates back centuries. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawas, Tonkawas, and Lipan Apaches. Spanish explorers, led by Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, were the first Europeans to visit the area in the 16th century.

In 1829, the Mexican government established Goliad County as a municipality as part of the Mexican state of Coahuila y Tejas. The town of Goliad was established as the county seat, and it quickly became a center for trade and commerce. However, tensions grew between the Mexican government and American settlers in Texas, eventually leading to the Texas Revolution.

One of the most well-known events in Goliad County's history occurred during the Texas Revolution in 1836. After the fall of the Alamo, Colonel James Fannin and his troops were captured by Mexican forces and held in the presidio at Goliad. In a tragic turn of events, Fannin and his men were executed in what became known as the Goliad Massacre, a significant event that further fueled the desire for Texas independence.

After gaining independence, Goliad County continued to grow and develop. The area became an important hub for ranching and agriculture, particularly in the production of cattle, cotton, and peanuts. Today, Goliad County is known for its rich historical heritage and its thriving tourism industry, drawing visitors with its impressive historic sites and events that commemorate the region's past.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Goliad County, Texas.

  • 1821 - Mexican Revolutionary General Martín Perfecto de Cos granted land to empresario Martín De León in what is now Goliad County
  • 1829 - The Mexican government granted the De León Colony rights to settle in the area
  • 1836 - Goliad County was officially established as a municipality of the Republic of Texas
  • 1836 - The Goliad Massacre occurred during the Texas Revolution, where prisoners of war from the Battle of Coleto were executed by the Mexican army
  • 1846 - The county was formally organized and named Goliad County after the presidio and the Spanish fort located in the area
  • 1850s - The county experienced economic growth with cattle ranching and agriculture becoming prominent industries
  • 1881 - The San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway built a line through the county, leading to further development
  • 20th century - Goliad County continued to thrive with the discovery of oil and gas reserves in the area
  • 2000 - Goliad County celebrated its 175th anniversary