State Antiquities Landmarks in
Bexar County, Texas

Alamo Portland & Roman Cement Works Alamo Stadium & Gymnasium Alamo, The Amaya House Beethoven Hall Bexar (Old) County Jail Bexar County Courthouse Brackenridge Park Coyone-Tynan Dugosh House Dugosh House Eagar House Eager Dependency Espinoza House Halff (Solomon) or Kampman House Hermann Carriage House John S. Harrison House Jose Antonio Navarro Elementary School #8 Jose Antonio Navarro House Koehler House Kusch House Longini-Herrmann House (formerly Acosta House) Meyer Halff House Miraflores Park Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisima Concepcion Mission San Francisco de la Espada Mission San Jose Mission y San Miguel de Aguayo Mission San Juan Capistrano OK Bar Pereida House Pioneer Hall Richter House San Juan Dam Site (Old) San Pedro Springs Park Schroeder-Yturri House Schultze (Herman) House Schultze (Maximillion) House Schultze's Store Smith House Solis House -- Removed 04/29/2014 Southern Pacific Depot Spanish Governor's Palace Sunken Garden Amphitheater Sweeney (James) House Tynan Dependency Wietzel House Yturri House
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Spanish Missions of Texas (Landmarks) Kindle Edition
Spanish Missions of Texas (Landmarks)

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Jerry Hall in Vogue
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 concise overview of the key events in 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.