The Spanish established about 50 missions in Texas, some of which, because of shifting borders, are now in Mexico and Louisiana. The most famous Mission in Texas isn't recognized by most of the general public as being a mission. San Antonio de Valero is better known as the Alamo where Davy Crockett and over 100 defenders lost their lives. The Texas Mission story is complex and difficult to follow as missions moved, closed, changed their names, were secularized, were attacked, abandoned, and a few have been restored. In 2008 & 9 we made two trips to central and east Texas and Louisiana visiting 15 Mission sites so watch for more in the near future.
San Francisco de los Tejas was the first Mission in Texas, established in 1690. Within months a second Mission, Santisimo Nombre de Maria was established a short distance away. Both had been abandoned by 1693. Mission San Miguel de Linares de los Adaes was the fifth Mission founded in East Texas near the town of Los Adaes which served as the capitol of the Provence of Texas from 1721 until about 1779.
Missions of East Texas:
The Franciscans extablished six Missions along the San Antonio River in the early 1700s - five flourished. (label copy at Mission Espada). I hope soon to add information on the sixth Mission.
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