Presidio de San Sabá

Historic Presidio in Menard, Texas

Virtual Tour
Restoration Project

Welcome to Presidio de San Sabá

Founded in 1757, the Presidio de San Sabá was operated by the Colonial Spanish Army until abandoned in 1772 by order of the Viceroy of New Spain.

There is no admission charge and visitors are welcome to a self guided tour year-round! Group tours are available with advance notice.

Reenactments

The Presidio is used by Living Historians and Reenactors. Upcoming events will be posted on this site and Facebook.

Self-Guided Tours

Visitors to the site can have a self guided tour of the Presidio with several explanatory signs.

Photography Encouraged

Photography is encouraged, day or night. Personal self-contained lighting is required for night photography.

Take a Virtual Tour

Visit the Presidio de San Sabá virtually - by exploring an interactive 3D rendering of the site.

Coming Soon!

Restoration Project

The Presidio de San Sabá Restoration Corporation (PRC) is a non-profit volunteer organization 501(c)(3) that assists with funding for special projects and upkeep of the Presidio.

Phase one of the current restoration was started in 2011 with a grant from the Texas Historical Commission. There are more phases to come as soon as there are funds available.

Donate

Photos and Facts

Photography by John Cobb

In 1937, the WPA rebuilt a portion of the Presidio de San Sabá historical site, but due to poor workmanship, it soon fell into ruins. This is a photograph of the people who came to the first dedication in May, 1937.
In 1937, the WPA rebuilt a portion of the Presidio de San Sabá historical site, but due to poor workmanship, it soon fell into ruins. This is a photograph of the people who came to the first dedication in May, 1937.
1981 Photograph of the Presidio de San Sabá in ruins.
1981 Photograph of the Presidio de San Sabá in ruins.
Participants in the 2012 Rededication of the Presidio de San Sabá.
Participants in the 2012 Rededication of the Presidio de San Sabá.
The Presidio is used by Living Historians and Reenactors.
The Presidio is used by Living Historians and Reenactors.
The Presidio's walls were used to hold cattle on the Great Western Trail drives in the 1870's-1880's because of water available from the San Sabá River. It was a good resting spot between San Antonio and points north. Today, we find several trail rides using the Presidio as a good place to go through and visit. You never know what you might run into.
The Presidio's walls were used to hold cattle on the Great Western Trail drives in the 1870's-1880's because of water available from the San Sabá River. It was a good resting spot between San Antonio and points north. Today, we find several trail rides using the Presidio as a good place to go through and visit. You never know what you might run into.
During the Spring, Summer, and Fall, our gardens at the Picnic Pavilion are a haven for butterflies and local plants.
During the Spring, Summer, and Fall, our gardens at the Picnic Pavilion are a haven for butterflies and local plants.
​Night photography is encouraged, but keep in mind there are no electrical outlets close to the Presidio. You will need to bring your own self contained lighting.
​Night photography is encouraged, but keep in mind there are no electrical outlets close to the Presidio. You will need to bring your own self contained lighting.

Location / Directions

Driving Directions

Leaving Menard, one mile west of the intersection of US Hwy 190 and US Hwy 83, the entrance to the Presidio de San Sabá is well lit and marked by signs.

Address

191 Presidio Rd, Menard, TX 76859

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Presidio de San Sabá
191 Presidio Rd, Menard, TX 76859
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You can support preservation and restoration of the Presidio de San Sabá with your donations.
Donate

Picnic Pavilion Rental

If you would like to rent the Picnic Pavilion, contact the County Judge’s office for more details and fees.
(325) 396-4789

Texas Forts Trail