Why Should You Visit Fannin Battleground State Historic Site?
The Fannin Battleground is the site of the Battle of Coleto Creek. This was an important event in the Texas Revolution, because the outcome of this battle directly led to the Goliad Massacre. (More on that below.)
Additionally, this field trip is one of several stops in the area where students can experience Texas history.
Great Field Trip for These Topics:
Texas History
The Texas Revolution
Where to Begin Your Field Trip:
This is a low-key field trip, especially when compared to the Alamo (another Texas Revolution battle site.) You will be able to see the entirety of the grounds when you arrive. Begin with the first interpretive sign. Then, make your way around the paved walking trail.
What Can You Expect to See & Do While Visiting Fannin Battleground?
The Fannin Battleground State Historic Site is a memorial for Colonel Fannin and the soldiers who fought and surrendered here.
A Very Brief History:
March 19, 1836
After receiving news about the fall of the Alamo, Colonel Fannin and his men begin a slow retreat from Goliad with the intention of joining Sam Houston in Victoria.
Later that day, Fannin and the Texians find themselves surrounded by Mexican troops. The battle lasts through the afternoon, consequently causing causalities on both sides.
As night falls, they remain surrounded and the situation becomes increasingly dire. Most importantly, they have no access to water. This means they are unable to treat their wounded or use their artillery correctly. As a result, Colonel Fannin surrenders the following morning.
What takes place next is a truly pivotal event in Texas history. Colonel Fannin and his men are taken to Presidio la Bahia in nearby Goliad as prisoners of war. The men believe they will be released within weeks, but instead they are executed in what becomes known as the Goliad Massacre.
This event enrages the Texians. Soon, the tables begin to turn. They go on to win their independence at San Jacinto with the battle cry “Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad!”
Visitors can walk the grounds of this small, quiet site at their own pace. Interpretive signs are provided for a self-guided tour. This historic site is not staffed, and there is no admission.
A stone obelisk stands at the center as a commemorative focal point for the grounds.
Head up the stairs to get a nice view of the battlefield from the historic bandstand.
Underneath the bandstand is where you will find a small museum about the significance of the battle that took place here.
There is also a large pavilion with picnic tables if you would like to bring a lunch.
The Basics:
Fannin Battleground State Historic Site
734 FM 2506
Fannin, TX 77960
Open Daily: 8am – 5pm
Admission: $0
Tips for Visitors:
The Visitors Guide can be downloaded here.
There is no visitor center or gift shop.
Restrooms are located behind the bandstand.
The Fannin Memorial (burial site) is located nearby, at Presidio La Bahia.
Other Nearby Field Trips:
Goliad State Park and Historic Site
Presidio La Bahia
Additional Resources:
Children’s Readers
- The Texas Revolution by Kelly Rodgers
- Leaders in the Texas Revolution by Kelly Rodgers
Film
- The Texas Historical Commission presents The Goliad Massacre: 360-Degree Web Film
- Discoveries…America National Parks: San Antonio Missions & The Alamo, Presidio La Bahia (Goliad) & El Camino Real, Texas
