San Elizario was established in 1789 on the former site of Hacienda de Los Tiburcios as a Spanish Colonial Fort known as the Presidio of San Elceario. The Presidio was moved from its former location (approx. 37 mi.s) in response to requests from settlers for military protection from Indian raids. It operated as a Spanish Fort until 1814, when troops withdrew during the Mexican War for Independence (1810-1821).

During its years as a part of Mexico, The Presidio of San Elceario (now San Elizario) was occupied periodically by Mexican troops. A reduced military presence resulted in the Fort's decline.

American control of the area began in 1848, with the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which established the Rio Grande as the border between the United States and Mexico. When the County of El Paso was organized in 1850, the town of San Elizario was chosen as the first county seat and served as such until 1873. In 1877 it was the scene of the crisis known as the Salt War, in which local business men attempted to control the salt market that had operated since colonial times.

Although San Elizario was bypassed by the railroad and has become a rural farming community, it remains an important element in the region's rich heritage.

Sorry, but we don't have a picture of this historical marker yet. If you have a picture, please share it with us. It's simple to do. 1) Become a member. 2) Adopt this historical marker listing. 3) Upload the picture.

Show me all markers in:  San Elizario, TX  |  El Paso County  |  79849  |  Texas  |  United States of America

Juan De Ornate Expedition -1598
Espejo Beltran Expedition - 1582-1583
San Elizario Memorial Plaza
The Camino Real
Rodriquez-Chamuscado Expedition - 1581
Salt War
The First Thanksgiving
Los Portales
San Elizario
Salt War

• GPX
• KML
• LOC

Have you seen this marker? If so, check in and tell us about it.