San Antonio Missions
The five Catholic missions of San Antonio, built along the San Antonio River, have become the largest chain of missions in the states. Built by the Spanish padres, they were used to Christianize the native Americans and to bring them into more "civilized" ways.
Missions San Jose, San Juan, Concepcion and Espada were originally founded in East Texas. Due to drought, malaria and French attacks the missions were moved to San Antonio.
During the 18th century the missions flourished. But due to hostile forces such as the Apache and Comanche, no military support and disease the missions declined.
Below you will find a brief description of each mission:
Alamo-San Antonio de Velero
Known today as the Alamo, this was the first of the San Antonio Missions. Established in 1718 as a way station between the already existing missions in Texas and Mexico, its name was taken from the Spanish word for cottonwood. Already over 100 years old when it became the primary point for a war with Santa Anna, she was used as a fort. Green B Jamison had the job of turning the church/mission into a viable fortress against the Mexican forces. Remember the Alamo... Always!
 Espada-San Francisco de la Espada |
Southernmost of the chain of five missions, Espada was named San Francisco de los Tejas until it was moved to San Antonio in 1731 and given its present name. Its extraordinary points of interest are its unusual door and stone entrance archway. |
Concepcion
With its twin bell towers, Concepcion is perhaps the most unique of the five missions. It is the oldest unrestored mission in the chain and looks as it did 200 years ago. Inside original paintings and colorful art work has been brought back to life and excavations have taken place outside the mission walls. There are still church services held at Concepcion.
San Juan Capistrano
This mission was also brought to San Antonio in 1731. It then became a regional supplier of iron, wood, cloth and leather goods made by the native Americans in its workshops. As in Concepcion, regular church services are held here.
San Jose
The second mission to be built was San Jose. Built in 1720 it was built five miles downstream from the Alamo. Establsihed by Fray Antonio Margil de Jesus, it provided itself as a model for further missions. It also proved to be the strongest garrison against attacks from outsiders.