Historical Marker

San Antonio River Walk (Paseo Del Rio)

Historical marker location:
San Antonio, Texas
( Losoya St. at Commerce St. bridge (north side))
Marker installed: 1996
Marker size: 27" x 42"

In September 1921 the flooding of the San Antonio River reached as high as eight feet in the center of the city. Loss of lives and property damage were high, and prompted city officials to take action to prevent a recurrence. The Olmos Dam was built and a city engineering report recommended filling and paving the river bend. Protests from the city Federation of Women's Clubs and the San Antonio Conservation Society convinced municipal leaders to view the river as an asset to be preserved.

San Antonio architect Robert H. H. Hugman (1902-1980) developed beautification plans for the river area including walks, foot bridges, landscaping, and retail shops. In 1929 Hugman, W. P. Drought, and city leaders helped Congressman Maury Maverick, Mayor C. K. Quin, and Jack White develop support that led to a Federal Works Progress Administration (WPA) grant to fund the project. In 1938, Hugman was hired as the project architect and Edwin P. Arneson as the project engineer. By 1941 the River Walk was completed.

During the 1960s voters approved a bond for improvements including extending the walk to the convention center. A source of pride for San Antonio, the River Walk is one of its most unique attractions. (1997)

Supplemental Plate:

Sponsors: San Antonio Conservation Society

Paseo Del Rio Association

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.

parks Federal programs water topics
Audiobooks about the history of Texas.
The Texas Rangers, a famous law enforcement agency, were first organized in 1835 to protect settlers from Native American attacks.
Texas random facts
Bexar County, Texas, holds a significant place in the history of the Lone Star State. Native American tribes thrived in the region for centuries before the arrival of European explorers. In 1718, the Spanish established the Mission San Antonio de Valero, known as the Alamo, which became a symbol of Texas' fight for independence. The area came under Mexican control after Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821.

During the Texas Revolution in 1836, the Battle of the Alamo took place, where a small group of Texan defenders valiantly fought against Mexican forces. Although the defenders ultimately lost, their bravery and sacrifice galvanized the Texan cause. Soon after, the Republic of Texas was established, and Bexar County was officially created in 1837, named after San Antonio de Béxar.

Bexar County played a vital role in the westward expansion of the United States. It became part of the United States when Texas joined as the 28th state in 1845. The county saw significant growth with the construction of railroads, the establishment of military bases like Fort Sam Houston, and the influx of European immigrants. In 1968, HemisFair '68 brought international attention to the county, showcasing its rich cultural heritage and attracting visitors from around the world. Today, Bexar County is known for its vibrant tourism industry, robust military presence, renowned healthcare institutions, and prestigious educational establishments.

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

  • Pre-19th Century: The region that would become Bexar County was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan and Lipan Apache.

  • 1718: The Spanish established the Mission San Antonio de Valero, known today as the Alamo, in what is now downtown San Antonio. This marked the beginning of Spanish colonization in the area.

  • 1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and the region came under Mexican control.

  • 1836: The Battle of the Alamo took place during the Texas Revolution, where a small group of Texan defenders fought against Mexican forces. Though the defenders were ultimately defeated, their resistance became a symbol of Texas independence.

  • 1837: The Republic of Texas officially established Bexar County, naming it after San Antonio de Béxar, the former Spanish name for the area.

  • 1845: Texas joined the United States as the 28th state.

  • 1861-1865: During the American Civil War, Bexar County remained part of the Confederacy.

  • Late 19th-early 20th century: The county saw growth and development with the expansion of railroads, the establishment of military bases like Fort Sam Houston, and the arrival of European immigrants.

  • 1968: HemisFair '68, a world's fair, was held in San Antonio, bringing national and international attention to the city and the county.