Presidio La Bahía

Under Nine Flags

Presidio La Bahía, designated a National Historic Landmark, is considered the world's finest example of a Spanish frontier fort. This is the most fought over fort in Texas history, having seen participation in six National Revolutions/Wars for independence. Spanish, Mexican and Texas soldiers all garrisoned its fortified walls. Here, at the Crossroads of Revolution, was felt almost every attempt to forcibly change the governmental order of Texas.

Located in the niche above the chapel entrance is the statue of Our Lady of Loreto sculpted by Lincoln Borglum, of Mt. Rushmore fame. This centuries-old chapel was where Fannin's men were held during part of their captivity before being massacred. The First Declaration of Texas Independence was signed inside the chapel. After the Texas Revolution of 1836, while other buildings of the Presidio fell into neglect and disrepair, the chapel was still used as a place of worship, and at one time was temporarily used as a private residence. An act of the Republic of Texas in 1841 restored church properties confiscated by the Republic. It was not until 1855 that the first non-Hispanic Bishop of Texas, Bishop J. M. Odin, received title from the Town Council of Goliad.

HOURS OF OPERATION:
9:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

ADMISSION:
• Adults: $3.00
• Seniors: $2.50
• Children Under 12: $1.00
• Children 5 and under: Free

CLOSED ON THE FOLLOWING HOLIDAYS:
• New Years Day
• Easter
• Thanksgiving
• Christmas

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