Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site |
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 Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site
Location in Texas
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| Location | Goliad County, USA |
| Nearest city | Goliad, Texas |
| Area | 3 acres (1.2 ha) |
| Established | 1976 |
| Governing body | Texas Parks and Wildlife Department |
The Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site is a special place in Goliad County, Texas, USA. It's right next to Presidio La Bahía and part of the larger Goliad State Park and Historic Site. This site honors Ignacio Zaragoza, a famous hero. You can see an outdoor theater and a large bronze statue of him here.
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Who Was General Zaragoza?
Ignacio Zaragoza was a brave general and a hero of the Battle of Puebla. This important battle is remembered every year during Cinco de Mayo celebrations.
The Battle of Puebla: A Key Victory
On May 5, 1862, General Zaragoza led about 4,500 soldiers. They faced a much larger French army of 6,500 forces. The battle happened in the city of Puebla, Mexico. Zaragoza's forces successfully stopped the French from invading Mexico. This victory was a huge moment for Mexico.
Discover General Zaragoza's Birthplace
Ignacio Zaragoza was born in Goliad on March 24, 1829. The land where he was born is now a special memorial.
Building the Memorial Site
In September 1961, Goliad County gave 3 acres (1.2 ha) of land for a memorial. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department then rebuilt Zaragoza's birth home. They used the original foundation of the house.
Construction of the Birth Home
Architectural plans for the house were created by Raiford Stripling. The Stein Lumber Company finished building the home in December 1974. The Zaragoza birthplace officially opened to the public on May 5, 1976. This date was the 114th anniversary of Cinco de Mayo.
The Zaragoza Statue
A 10 feet (3.0 m) tall bronze statue honors General Zaragoza. The people of Puebla, Mexico, donated this impressive statue. It was revealed on September 13, 1980. You can find it on the grounds of the birthplace, in front of the outdoor theater.
Visiting the Historic Site
The Zaragoza birthplace is part of the Goliad State Park and Historic Site. It's a great place to learn about history.
Hours and Admission
Goliad State Park is open every day of the week. There is an entrance fee to visit the park. The Zaragoza house is located outside the main park grounds. It is about one mile south of the Goliad State Park entrance. If you want to bring a group, you should arrange your visit ahead of time.
Park Facilities
The Texas State Park Store gift shop is located inside Goliad Park. The park also has restrooms, a museum, and a playground for visitors.
