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
Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site
Location in the United States
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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 is right next to Presidio La Bahía within the larger Goliad State Park and Historic Site. This site marks the exact spot where General Ignacio Zaragoza was born. He was a famous hero of the 1862 Battle of Puebla. At the site, you can also find an outdoor theater and a bronze statue of Zaragoza.
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Discover Zaragoza's Birthplace
This historic site celebrates the life of General Ignacio Zaragoza. It's a place where you can learn about an important part of history. The site helps visitors understand Zaragoza's early life and his brave actions.
Who Was General Ignacio Zaragoza?
Ignacio Zaragoza was a true hero, especially known for his role in the Battle of Puebla. This battle is remembered every year during Cinco de Mayo celebrations. On May 5, 1862, General Zaragoza led about 600 of his soldiers. They bravely stopped a much larger French army of 6,500 soldiers in the city of Puebla, Mexico. His victory prevented the French from invading further into Mexico.
The Story of Zaragoza's Birth Home
Ignacio Zaragoza was born in Goliad on March 24, 1829. In September 1961, Goliad County gave three acres of land at Zaragoza's birthplace. This was to create a memorial in his honor. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department then rebuilt his birth home on its original foundation.
Architectural plans for the house were created by Raiford Stripling. The Stein Lumber Company finished building the home in December 1974. The birthplace officially opened to the public on May 5, 1976. This date was the 114th anniversary of Cinco de Mayo. The site also includes an amphitheater, which is an outdoor stage area.
A Special Statue for a Hero
A ten-foot-tall bronze statue was made to honor Zaragoza. The people of Puebla, Mexico, donated this statue. It was revealed on September 13, 1980. You can find it on the grounds of the birthplace, right in front of the amphitheater.
Plan Your Visit to the Historic Site
The Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site is part of the larger Goliad State Park. Goliad State Park is open every day of the week. There is an entrance fee to visit the park. The Zaragoza house itself is located about one mile south of the main Goliad State Park entrance. If you want to bring a group, it's a good idea to arrange your tour ahead of time.
What Else Can You Do Nearby?
Inside Goliad State Park, you'll find the Texas State Park Store gift shop. The park also has restrooms, a museum, and a playground. These facilities make it a great place for families to visit and learn.
See also
- Museums in the Texas Gulf Coast
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Goliad County, Texas
