Texas' First State Park -where Texas won her Independence and commemorates the ongoing price paid for freedom.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's 1,200-acre San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site consists of the San Jacinto Battleground, Monument and Battleship Texas. These sites are located within minutes of downtown Houston and a short distance from the beaches of Galveston Island. Millions of visitors come to this area each year to enjoy the mild coastal climate and cultural and sports activities. Visitors experience history first-hand through living history at the San Jacinto Battleground and Battleship Texas.
The famous Battle of San Jacinto that brought Texas its independence was fought on this site. Texian troops under General Sam Houston achieved the independence of Texas by defeating a Mexican Army led by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna on April 21, 1836.
The San Jacinto Monument is dedicated to the "Heroes of the Battle of San Jacinto and all others who contributed to the independence of Texas." The monument is a 570-foot shaft topped by a 34-foot star symbolizing the Lone Star Republic. The building incorporates a number of innovative engineering features not common during the period of its construction. The American Society of Civil Engineers recognized this technology with the prestigious designation of State and National Historic Structure. The monument is listed as the tallest stone column memorial structure in the world, 15 feet taller than the Washington Monument in Washington, DC. The monument was a Public Works Administration project started on April 21, 1936 and dedicated on April 21, 1939.
In 1948, the Battleship Texas became the first battleship memorial museum in the United States. That same year, on the anniversary of Texas Independence, the Texas was presented to the State of Texas and commissioned as the flagship of the Texas Navy. In 1983, the Texas was placed under the stewardship of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and is permanently anchored on the Buffalo Bayou and the busy Houston Ship Channel.
"To manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of Texas and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreational opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations."
San Jacinto Battleground
Walk the Battleground and relive the famous battle for Texas Independence. Granite markers throughout the site designate locations of the Texian camps, the Mexican camps, the site of the advance by Texian forces and other strategic parts of the battle. Most markers can also be viewed from your vehicle. Read or print out "A Battleground Walking Tour Guide." Boy Scouts can earn a badge for this activity. Free admission.
San Jacinto Monument
The San Jacinto Museum of History is housed in the base of the San Jacinto Monument. The museum contains priceless artifacts and dioramas, as well as a rare collection of 250,000 documents and 40,000 books chronicling more than 400 years of early Texas history.
Take the elevator up to the Monument's Observation floor, 489 feet above the Battleground, with outstanding views of the city and the busy Houston Ship Channel and harbor.
Admission to the Monument ground floor, and the Museum, is always free. Information on pricing for the observation floor and special attractions. The Monument is managed by the San Jacinto Museum of History Association and does not accept Texas State Park Passes.
Battleship TEXAS
Self-guided tour of this mighty naval vessel will allow you a glimpse into the life of the men on board the Battleship Texas during World Wars I and II. Climb 60 feet above the water to the flying bridge or down 20 feet below the water into the engine room. View the restored sleeping quarters and medical facilities, engine room, guns, and anchors. Regular admission.
Hard Hat Guided Tour
Participate in a guided tour of the Battleship Texas into parts of the ship that are normally closed to the public. Contact the Battleship Texas Foundation at (713) 827-9620.
Sleep Over on the Battleship Texas
The Battleship Texas Youth Overnight program provides an educational and recreational experience for organized youth groups (7-18 years of age). Sleep in the same quarters as the crew, participate in a guided tour into parts of the ship that are closed to the public, and experience life as a sailor during World War II. For program details call (281) 542-0684.
