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San Antonio Missions National Historical ParkVolunteer demonstrating how to weave.
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San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Hydrologic Activity
 
Nature and Science
(NPS photo - Kodak DX3900)
New Espada Dam on the San Antonio River
The potential violent power of flood waters of the San Antonio River during heavy or extended rainfall prompted the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to create a huge, straight river channel almost a half a century ago. Although soils near the mission sites have a great deal of clay content, the soil is relatively shallow over limestone bedrock. There are deep alluvial soils in the former river floodplain; the mission labores were located there. Aggressive hydrologic activity can erode isolated sections of banks of rivers, streams and acequias. Man-made cement retaining walls along the river and streams are testament to this hydrologic activity.
San Jose's gristmill is believed to be the oldest in Texas.  

Did You Know?
The mill at San Jose was in use and grinding wheat by 1794. The mill is believed to be the oldest in Texas. In 2001 President Bush came to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and dedicated the mill, which is in use today.

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Last Updated: January 14, 2008 at 17:56 EST