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Goliad is the third oldest Spanish Colonial municipality in Texas. As such, its tourist attractions and annual events include living history programs that are largely centered on occurrences from the mid-18th century through the early days of the Republic of Texas. In 1749, the Spanish government transferred Mission Espiritu Santo and its royal protector, Presidio La Bahia, to the site of a small Aranama Indian village, which they named Santa Dorotea; this mission served the Aranama, Tamique, and their allies for 110 years, longer than any other Spanish colonial mission in Texas. A small villa grew up around the walls of the presidio, and was called La Bahia. This area was occupied by the Spanish until 1821, when Mexico won its independence from Spain. The name of the town was officially changed to Goliad in 1829. Goliad is a phonetic anagram of Hidalgo, the name of the priest who became a hero during the Mexican Revolution. Mexican soldiers occupied Presidio La Bahia from 1821 to 1825. The first great cattle ranch in Texas is said to have its beginnings at Mission Espiritu Santo. Along with its sister, Mission Nuestra Senora del Rosario, Mission Espiritu Santo possessed the largest longhorn herds in the state, at times owning more than 40,000 head. Among the most historic events: The first offensive action of the Texas Revolution occurred in Goliad on October 9, 1835, when local colonists captured the fort and town, and on December 20, 1835, the first Declaration of Texas Independence was signed in Goliad and the first flag of Texas Independence was hoisted. The Goliad Massacre occurred on March 27, 1836. Mission Espiritu Santo and Presidio La Bahia, both established in 1749, together comprise the only Spanish Colonial fort-mission complex left standing in the Western hemisphere. The mission is located on the grounds of Goliad State Historical Park (361-645-3405). The Presidio is nearby, across the San Antonio River (361-645-3752). Both are located on US Hwy 183. The Market House Museum, Fannin Plaza Park, the 103-year-old courthouse, and the Hanging Tree are located in downtown Goliad, along with several quaint shops for your browsing pleasure. Goliad also offers many opportunities for the sportsman in outdoor and recreational activities. Fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and water skiing are available at Coleto Creek Park (361-575-6366). Goliad State Historical Park also offers year-round picnicking, hiking, camping, and historic and nature study. For more information on events, visit:
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