VISITORS GUIDE: GOLIAD COUNTY

Native American

In 1749 Presidio La Bahia and the Mission Espiritu Santo de Zuniga were moved from the Guadalupe River to the vicinity of present-day Goliad to guard the main roads from Mexico to Sa Antonio de Bexar. At their new location the mission continued its ranching activities. The Padres were the first ranch foremen and their Aranama and Tamique converts were the first cowboys. The reconstructed mission and a museum in the old granary are in Goliad State Park. Tours are also available by appointment to Mission Rosario, now in ruins, south of Goliad that was established to serve the Karankawas. For details on programs phone Lupita Barrera at .

Spanish Colonial

The restored Presidio La Bahia is considered the worlds finest example of a Spanish frontier fort. Some residents of Goliad today are ninth and tenth generation descendants of the Spanish and Mestizo soldiers who establish their homes as well as the first privately-owned ranches near the fort for protection. On display at Presidio La Bahia is a remarkable collection of artifacts including arrow points, pottery, military and religious items, some more than 250 years old. Presidio La Bahia is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Texas Revolution

Goliad was a hot bed of political activity during the Texas Revolution. At San Jacinto, Texians rallied to the cry of "Remember Goliad! Remember the Alamo!" in reference to the Battle of Coleto and the events that followed at Presidio La Bahia. A lecture regarding the Battle of Coleto will be offered at Goliad State Park in March. For details phone . Fannin Battle Ground State Park, the site of the battle, is at nearby Fannin. The annual Goliad Massacre/Fort Defience Living History Program held at Presido La Bahia on Palm Sunday each year draws thousands of spectators. Phone Newton Warzecha for details.

German

During the 1840s and 1850s, the communities of Schroeder, Ander, Weser and Weesatsch were settled by German immigrants. Schroeder hall is one of the states oldest community dance halls still operating although today the music will be more likely country western and polka.

African-American

The Goliad County Library has several books by black folklorist John Mason Brewer. Also, photos taken by author Louise OConnor of area cow hands, including many who were black. The library is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m weekdays.

Landseekers

Goliad County has always attracted landseekers. In addition to Goliad and La Bahia communities established in Goliad county by these settlers include Ander, Berclair, Charco, Cologne, Cummingsville-Tussleville, Bobskyville, Fannin, Old Blanconia, Perdida, Schroeder, Weser and Weesatche. Family heirlooms and artifacts from all of these settlements can be viewed at the Markethouse Museum in Goliad. From its earliest times, Goliad had had a strong ranching heritage. To learn more attend the Ranching Heritage Days set in April. For details phone the Goliad Heritage Council at .

Other

Market Days on the Square at Goliad, second Saturday of the month, March through December with more than 150 vendors offering food and crafts ... Cinco de Mayo Celebration at monument to General Ignacio Zaragoza, for details phone Sonny Vargas ... Birthplace of Ignacio Zaragoza next to Presidio La Bahia has exhibits pertaining to his life ... Markethouse Museum ... "Goliad Walking Tour" map is available at the Goliad Chamber of Commerce ... Lighted Christmas Parade and candlelit Las Posadas. For details phone ... Antique and specialty shops on the Square ... annual Missions Tour de Goliad Bike Ride the 3rd Saturday in October ... Santa in sleigh drawn by a Longhorn steer during Christmas in December.