Juan Galván facts for kids

Juan Galván was a Spanish soldier and explorer. He worked as an officer and explorer in San Antonio, Texas. He is known for suggesting that the Presidio San Saba be built.

Early Life and Military Career

Juan Galván moved to San Antonio of Bexar in the early 1720s. This was about ten years after he joined the military. He did well in his service. He was promoted to alférez, which is a type of officer.

Protecting Missions

On March 13, 1748, Galván was put in charge of 30 men. Their job was to protect the Mission San Xavier del Bac. He reported that 30 men would be enough to handle any threats from local native groups. He also suggested that a presidio (a military fort) should be built there with 50 soldiers.

In the summer of 1749, Governor Pedro del Barrio Junco y Espriella joined Galván. They explored the area around San Xavier. They wanted to see if a settlement could be supported there. After their trip, the governor put Galván in charge of the presidio at San Xavier.

Exploring New Lands

In 1752, Spanish leaders approved a new expedition. The goal was to explore Apache territory. They also wanted to find a good spot for a new mission. Galván was chosen to lead this important journey.

The San Saba Expedition

Galván set out in 1753 with a small group. Father Miguel de Aranda, who worked at Mission Concepcion, was also with them. They traveled northwest from San Antonio. They explored the Pedernales River, the Llano River, and the San Saba River.

The area around the San Saba River looked the most promising. The soil was fertile, which meant it was good for farming. There also seemed to be minerals in the ground. Local Apache people even promised to come to a new mission if one was built there.

Recommending a Fort

Galván suggested that a mission should be started along the San Saba River. He also recommended that a presidio be built nearby. This fort would protect the mission from the Comanche people. He thought 100 soldiers would be needed at the fort. This large number made some people worry that the area might be too dangerous.

It took three more years and two more expeditions with similar findings. Finally, the governor agreed. The mission and the Presidio San Saba were established. The Apache people never fully accepted the mission. Eventually, some missionaries left it. However, Galván continued to serve as a lieutenant at the Presidio.

Family Life

Juan Galván married Francisca Xaviera Maldonado in San Antonio in 1723. They had ten children together.