Our History

History

Presidio, Texas, situated along the Rio Grande in the Trans-Pecos region of southwest Texas, holds a rich, vibrant history. The area known as La Junta de los Ríos, where the Rio Conchos joins the Rio Grande, has been continuously inhabited since about 1500 B.C. by indigenous peoples like the Cochise and the Mogollón. These early settlers cultivated corn, beans, squash, and other crops, utilizing the fertile land and abundant water sources for sustenance.

Spanish exploration of the region began in the latter part of the 16th century, with significant expeditions led by explorers such as Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca. Cabeza de Vaca, renowned as the first historian of Texas, crossed through Presidio County in 1535 during his epic journey across the continent. His encounters with local indigenous tribes and his survival skills, including performing a notable surgical procedure, became legendary and left a lasting mark on the region's history.

In 1683, the Spanish established the Presidio de San Juan Bautista del Río Grande near present-day Presidio, Texas, to protect settlers and secure trade routes. This strategic fortification marked the formal beginning of the town of Presidio, which would evolve into a hub for trade and cultural exchange between Spanish colonists and indigenous peoples.

Presidio County was officially organized in 1850, encompassing vast swathes of land along the Rio Grande. The county's development was shaped by frontier challenges, including conflicts with Apache and Comanche tribes, which persisted into the late 19th century despite efforts to establish settlements and forts like Fort Davis.

The late 19th century brought significant economic developments with the discovery of silver in the Chinati Mountains, leading to the establishment of mining towns such as Shafter. Ranching and agriculture flourished, supported by innovations like barbed wire fencing and irrigation from the Rio Grande. Today however due to the abandonment of the Shafter mine the town is now home to just a few families

Today, Presidio, Texas, continues to embody its rich cultural heritage amidst its stunning natural landscapes. Visitors are drawn to the area's rugged beauty, including the majestic Chinati Mountains and the mysterious Marfa Lights. The town remains a gateway to Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, offering unparalleled outdoor exploration and adventure opportunities