History:
Like the other missions, Espada was built within a stone–walled compound for protection from the indigenous tribes hostile to the mission's presence. This was especially important for Mission Espada, since it lay farthest from the protection of the soldiers at the presidio on Military Plaza in town. This accounts for the well–fortified bastion at the southeast corner of the compound, which has three–foot thick walls with large holes for cannon and smaller holes for muskets.
About this Image:
1) This structure is the base of a defensive tower, or bastion, built into the south perimeter wall at Mission Espada.
2) Drawing showing the grounds of Mission Espada. Note the bastion's location on the bottom right edge. Drawing is taken from San Antonio de Bexar by William Corner, published in 1890.
2) Drawing showing the grounds of Mission Espada. Note the bastion's location on the bottom right edge. Drawing is taken from San Antonio de Bexar by William Corner, published in 1890.
To Learn More:
Credit:
Courtesy of the San Antonio Conservation Society Foundation.
Click to Enlarge
N.d.
2) Plan of Mission Espada, c. 1890
N.d.
2) Plan of Mission Espada, c. 1890