Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park |
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Palo Alto battlegrounds today
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 Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Location in Texas
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Location in the United States
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| Location | Cameron County, Texas, U.S. |
| Nearest city | Brownsville, Texas |
| Area | 3,357.42 acres (13.5870 km2) 1,039.62 acres (420.72 ha) federal |
| Established | November 10, 1915 |
| Visitors | 36,707 (in 2012) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park |
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Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
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Former U.S. National Historic Site
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| Built | 1846 |
| NRHP reference No. | 66000812 |
| Significant dates | |
| Designated NHL | December 19, 1960 |
| Designated NHP | March 30, 2009 |
| Designated NHS | November 19, 1978 |
| Delisted NHS | March 30, 2009 |
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is a special place near Brownsville, Texas. It protects the land where an important battle happened on May 8, 1846. This battle, called the Battle of Palo Alto, was the first big fight in a disagreement over borders. This disagreement soon led to the Mexican–American War.
The United States Army won this battle, which helped them move into Mexico. This historical park helps us understand the battle and the war. It also shows us why the war started and what happened afterward, from both the United States and Mexico's points of view.
The National Park Service owns about a third of the land for the park. This includes the main battlefield area where Mexican forces were located. Some parts of the battlefield are still privately owned. A plant called Honey mesquite grows a lot here. Even though it's a native plant, too much of it can change the natural look of the area and affect the park's history and environment.
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What is Palo Alto Battlefield?
Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is managed by the National Park Service. Its main goal is to preserve the site of the Battle of Palo Alto. This battle was a key event that started the Mexican-American War. The park helps visitors learn about this important time in history.
The Battle of Palo Alto
The Battle of Palo Alto took place on May 8, 1846. It was the first major battle of the Mexican-American War. This war was fought over land and borders between the United States and Mexico. The battle was a victory for the United States Army. This win allowed them to continue their advance into Mexico. The park shows how both sides experienced this conflict.
Protecting the Park Land
The National Park Service works hard to protect the land at Palo Alto. They have bought a large part of the battlefield. This includes the main area where the Mexican army fought. However, some parts of the battlefield are still owned by private people.
One challenge for the park is the honey mesquite plant. It grows very thick in some areas. While it's a natural plant, too much of it can change how the battlefield looked during the war. It also affects the other plants and animals living there. The park tries to manage this plant to keep the historical landscape.
Visiting Palo Alto Battlefield
The park has a visitor center where you can learn more. Inside, you'll find exhibits about the Battle of Palo Alto. There are also displays about the larger Mexican-American War. You can watch a 15-minute video called "War on the Rio Grande." This video helps explain the events of the time.
After visiting the center, you can walk a half-mile trail. This trail leads to a spot where you can see the battlefield. Along the way, there are signs that explain what happened during the battle. These signs help you imagine the events of 1846.
Park History and Growth
Palo Alto Battlefield was first recognized as a special historical site in 1960. It became a National Historic Site in 1978. Later, in 2009, it was made into a National Historical Park. This change also meant the park grew bigger. It now includes the Resaca de la Palma Battlefield. This is another important battle site located inside the city of Brownsville.
Images for kids
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A historical marker at Palo Alto Battlefield.
