State Antiquities Landmark

Medina Dam

Vicinity of Mico Texas
Significance:
Dam

Jurisdiction:
Bexar-Medina-Atascosa Counties Water Control & Improvement District No.1

State Antiquities Landmarks (SALs) are designated by the Texas Historical Commission (THC) and receive legal protection under the Antiquities Code of Texas (the Code). The Code defines all cultural resources on non-federal public lands in the State of Texas as eligible to be designated as SALs. Historic buildings and other aboveground historic resources must be listed in the National Register of Historic Places before they can be designated as SALs, but archeological sites do not have the same prerequisite.

SAL designation does not mean that sites or buildings cannot be altered or destroyed. The land-owning agency must consult with the THC about such proposed actions through the permit process, and the THC will determine whether the work will be allowed.

Buildings designated as SALs are listed in the Texas Historic Sites Atlas. However, information about designated archeological sites is not available to the general public to protect the sites from vandalism and destruction.

military topics
The Alamo, a mission in San Antonio, is perhaps the most famous historical site in Texas. It was the site of a key battle during the Texas Revolution in 1836.
Texas random facts
Medina County, Texas, located in the southern part of the state, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache, who lived off the land and traded with neighboring tribes.

In the 17th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, claiming the land for Spain. The Spanish established missions in the area to convert the Native Americans to Christianity and to further their control over the territory. One of the most notable missions was Mission San Francisco de la Espada, which still stands today and is a popular tourist attraction.

During the 19th century, the area that is now Medina County became a part of the Republic of Texas after it gained independence from Mexico. As more settlers moved into the area, the town of Castroville was founded in 1844 by colonists led by Henri Castro. The town became a major hub for German immigrants, and their influence can still be seen today in the town's architecture and cultural heritage.

Over the years, Medina County has experienced significant economic growth and development. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century led to an oil boom in the area, and agriculture has also played a significant role in the county's economy, with cattle ranching and crop farming being major industries.

Today, Medina County is a thriving community that celebrates its rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the area's historical sites, such as the missions and historic downtown areas, while also enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Medina County, Texas.

  • 1841 - Medina County is established as a county in the Republic of Texas.
  • 1842 - Castroville, the county seat, is founded by Henri Castro.
  • 1846 - Medina County becomes part of the United States after the annexation of Texas.
  • 1850 - D'Hanis, another town within Medina County, is settled.
  • 1856 - Hondo is founded and becomes the new county seat.
  • 1861-1865 - During the Civil War, Medina County supports the Confederacy.
  • 1881 - The International-Great Northern Railroad is completed, boosting economic development.
  • 1917-1918 - Many Medina County residents serve in World War I.
  • 1920s-1930s - The Great Depression causes economic hardship in the county.
  • 1942-1945 - World War II leads to changes in the local economy and military service.
  • 1953 - Medina Lake is created with the construction of Medina Dam.
  • 1998 - The historic Medina County Courthouse is restored after a fire severely damages it.