Presidio La Bahia, Goliad

On October 9, 1836, Texas colonists made a move in their battle for independence by taking over the old Spanish presidio and raising the "Bloody Arm Flag" picturing a severed arm holding a sword.

The next year the Texians, led by Col. James Fannin, surrendered at the Battle of Coleto about nine miles east of town.

Approximately 390 soldiers were marched back to the presidio and, after a week's imprisonment, 342 were killed in front of a firing squad. It was the largest loss of life during the fight for independence. "Remember Goliad" soon became a cry alongside "Remember the Alamo."

Today the fully-restored presidio is the oldest fort in the West. You also can visit Colonel Fannin's grave and see the monument that marks the resting place of the Texas soldiers. The grave is located just east of the Presidio La Bahia. A large memorial marks the site of the massacre that occurred here on March 27, 1836.

While you're here, visit the fort chapel, built in the Spanish colonial style.

Located on US 183.

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