Welcome to the Presidio la Bahía State Historic Site, a cornerstone of Texas history located in Goliad, Texas. This formidable fort, known officially as Presidio Nuestra Señora de Loreto de la Bahía, has been a silent witness to pivotal moments in the history of Texas and the larger Spanish colonial efforts in North America.
The story of Presidio La Bahía begins in 1721, when it was founded on the ruins of the failed French Fort Saint Louis. It was originally constructed by the Spanish Army as part of their efforts to secure the region against other European powers, especially after the French incursions. In 1747, the presidio was relocated to its current position by the San Antonio River, and by 1771, it had been rebuilt in stone to become the only Spanish fortress along the Gulf Coast from the Rio Grande to the Mississippi River.
This site was central to several critical events in Texan history. During the Mexican War of Independence, the presidio was captured by insurgent forces twice, reflecting its strategic importance. However, it was during the Texas Revolution that Presidio La Bahía truly earned its place in history. In October 1835, it was the site of the Battle of Goliad, one of the first major engagements in the struggle for Texas independence. The presidio changed hands quickly after a fierce skirmish, becoming known as Fort Defiance under the Texian army.
In March 1836, after the fall of the Alamo, the presidio was the site of the tragic Goliad Massacre. Colonel James Fannin and his men, who had been captured following the Battle of Coleto, were executed here on Palm Sunday by order of General Santa Anna. This brutal event became a rallying cry for Texian forces with the unforgettable words ‘Remember Goliad!’ during the decisive Battle of San Jacinto.
Over the centuries, Presidio La Bahía has undergone several restorations, the most significant of which began in 1963, ensuring its preservation as the world’s finest example of a Spanish frontier fort. Today, visitors can explore the site and imagine the lives of soldiers and settlers within its walls, as well as pay respects at the Fannin Memorial Monument adjacent to the site.
Notable figures such as Colonel James Fannin and the Texian soldiers who fought for independence walked these grounds, leaving behind stories of valor and sacrifice that continue to inspire.
As you walk through the Presidio today, remember that you are walking through the pages of history, where the echoes of past battles and the quest for freedom still resonate.
