Photo: San Antonio c.1870

Photo: San Antonio c.1870

Photo: San Antonio c.1870

It was established as a Spanish mission and colonial outpost in 1718. This region was firmly within the dominion of the Spanish Empire during that era. From 1821 to 1836, it became an integral part of the Mexican Republic, shaping its history. 

San Antonio flourished, ultimately rising to prominence as the preeminent Spanish settlement within the vast expanse of Texas. With its elevated status, it was chosen to serve as the capital of the province of Tejas, initially under Spanish governance and later as part of Mexico's dominion. The Camino Real, now known as Nacogdoches Road, was strategically constructed, forging a vital connection between San Antonio and the modest frontier town of Nacogdoches.

 European American settlers from the United States were granted permission by Mexico to establish roots in this region, predominantly occupying the eastern lands. The abrupt unilateral abolition of the Mexican Constitution of 1824 by Antonio López de Santa Anna set the stage for the turmoil that rippled across numerous Mexican states.

In a sequence of hard-fought clashes, the Texian Army showcased remarkable resilience, effectively expelling Mexican military forces from the areas neighboring San Antonio, which were increasingly influenced by American settlers. Under the strategic guidance of Ben Milam, a pivotal moment unfolded in the Battle of Bexar in December 1835, culminating in the Texian forces seizing control of San Antonio. As the spring of 1836 arrived, Santa Anna led an advancing contingent toward San Antonio. During this period, a volunteer force led by James C. Neill took possession of and fortified the abandoned Alamo mission.

The historic Battle of the Alamo unfolded between February 23 and March 6, 1836. Despite being vastly outnumbered, the Texian defenders exhibited unwavering resolve, though they eventually succumbed to overwhelming odds, resulting in the loss of all who had defended the Alamo. 

In 1845 the United States incorporated Texas into the Union, setting the stage for the Mexican–American War. While the U.S. emerged victorious from this conflict, its toll on San Antonio was substantial. By the war's conclusion, the city's population had been dramatically reduced by nearly two-thirds, dwindling to 800 inhabitants. However, buoyed by an influx of migrants and immigrants, San Antonio experienced a resurgence, boasting a population of 15,000 as the American Civil War loomed in 1860. Following the Civil War's conclusion, San Antonio thrived as a pivotal hub in the flourishing cattle industry, securing its place as a formidable player in the economic landscape.

In 1877 the first railway to San Antonio was constructed, establishing crucial connections to major markets and bustling port cities. By 1880, the populace had swelled to surpass 20,000. In 1881, a secondary railway network extended its reach to the town. By 1900, no fewer than five distinct railway lines converged upon the city. San Antonio's ascended to the apex of urban prominence within the state, boasting an impressive populace exceeding 50,000 residents.

A striking juxtaposition of venerable Spanish walls alongside sleek contemporary glass skyscrapers and flanked by clusters of stately Victorian mansions just a stone's throw away weaves together a unique tapestry that imparts an irresistible allure, drawing countless visitors in search of its captivating charm.

Standing the test of time, it proudly is the oldest municipality in Texas, an achievement celebrated heartily during its tricentennial festivities on May 1, 2018.