National Register Listing

San Felipe de Austin Historic and Archeological District

a.k.a. San Felipe Memorial Park; San Felipe de Austin State Historic Site; 41 AU2; San Felipe de Austin

15945 FM 1458, San Felipe, TX
The San Felipe de Austin Historic and Archaeological District consists of approximately 97 acres of state-owned land at the location of the former townsite of San Felipe de Austin (San Felipe). The district contains ten resources; one site, six objects (one is noncontributing), one structure, and two buildings (one noncontributing). The district encompasses a large portion of the original 148-acre townsite that was founded in 1823 and the entirety of the San Felipe State Historic Site, a state historic park owned and managed by the Texas Historical Commission. The portions of the townsite owned by the state are designated as archaeological site 41AU2, and encompass areas where archeological features and artifacts related to the 1823–1836 occupation have been found. Approximately six of the 97 acres are located on the west side of present day Farm-to-Market (FM) 1458 and contain nine resources related to the early twentieth century establishment of the park, its commemoration of Stephen F. Austin and the townsite, and its ongoing use throughout the twentieth century as a public park and commemorative site. The remaining 91 acres on the east side of FM 1458 contain no above-ground resources. The entire 97-acre park sits atop the archeological remains of the historic townsite.
Local significance of the district:
Archeology-historic Non-aboriginal; Conservation

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2016.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

The cattle industry played a significant role in the development of Texas, with cowboys driving cattle from Texas to railheads in Kansas during the late 1800s and early 1900s.
Texas random facts
Austin County, located in the southeastern part of Texas, has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Karankawa and the Akokisa. In the early 1820s, the Mexican government granted land to Stephen F. Austin, also known as the "Father of Texas," who established the first Anglo-American settlements in the region.

In 1824, Austin County was officially created as one of the original 23 counties of Texas. The county was named in honor of Stephen F. Austin and served as a major center for the colonization of Texas. During this time, settlers began to arrive and establish farms, bringing with them their unique cultures and traditions.

Austin County also played a significant role in the Texas Revolution. In 1832, local colonists held the Turtle Bayou Resolutions, which voiced their support for Antonio López de Santa Anna, who was then the leader of Mexico. However, as tensions escalated, the colonists became part of the rebellion against Mexican rule, leading to the famous Battle of San Jacinto in 1836. This battle marked a major turning point in Texas history, resulting in the defeat of Santa Anna's forces and the eventual independence of Texas.

Throughout the years, Austin County continued to develop and thrive. The county seat, Bellville, was established in 1848 and has remained an important cultural and economic center. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further contributed to the growth of the county, connecting it with other regions. Today, Austin County is known for its rich agricultural heritage, historical landmarks, and vibrant community, making it a unique and significant part of Texas history.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Austin County, Texas.

  • 1821 - Austin County is established as one of the original 23 counties in Texas.
  • 1831 - Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas", passes away and is buried in Austin County.
  • 1836 - Texas gains independence from Mexico, leading to an influx of settlers in Austin County.
  • 1856 - The town of Bellville is established as the county seat of Austin County.
  • 1861-1865 - Austin County residents actively participate in the American Civil War.
  • 1878 - The Texas state legislature formally recognizes Austin County as the "Cradle of the Republic".
  • 1887 - The San Felipe and Southwestern Railroad connects Austin County to the rest of Texas.
  • 1907 - The Brazos River floods Austin County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
  • 1965 - The Stephen F. Austin State Park is established in Austin County.
  • 1992 - The Austin County Historical Commission is formed to preserve the county's history and heritage.
  • Present - Austin County continues to thrive as an agricultural and historic region in Texas.