General-
With the end of America's civil war, thousands of settlers began moving west in search of their
fortunes. Realizing its need to protect these citizens from roving bands of Indians, the
government established several forts on the frontier. One such placement, Fort
Concho, was made in 1867 at the confluence of three rivers in west central Texas.
The fort at different times was home to mounted cavalry, infantry and the famous Black
infantry whose members were respectfully called "buffalo
soldiers" by the Indians. Almost as soon as the first units arrived
at Fort Concho, a small and somewhat lawless village by the name of Santa
Angela came to life just across the river. As the village grew into a community, it
became a trade center for the
many farmers and ranchers who had settled in the area. By 1889 the Indians had moved
westward and the soldiers followed, abandoning Fort Concho. However, with an economic
base of agriculture and trade, the community later to be known as San Angelo continued to
grow as it moved into the 20th century.
Today, this city is the hub of a 13 county area of Texas
with a widely diversified economy supported by agriculture, petroleum, medical,
communications, education, federal, military, retail, retirement, and tourism.
ASU Planetarium
Nursing & Physical Science
Building/Corner of Pierce & Vanderventer ranked as the fourth
largest in the nation. The Planetarium on the campus of Angelo State
University features twice-weekly programs for public viewing, except on holidays and
semester breaks. Shows are at 8:00 pm Thursdays and 2:00 pm Saturdays. (915)942-2136
Admission is $2.00
Cactus Hotel
One of the first Hilton Hotels, the Cactus
is was one of the most ornate and lavish hotels of the era. The Cactus, was built in 1929
at a cost of $900,000, houses a restaurant, coffee shop, numerous non-profit organizations
and hosts the popular Cactus Jazz Concerts. Located on the first floor is the Children's
Art Museum and Gift shop.
Concho Pearls
Formed in freshwater mussels, pearls range in color from pink to deep purple.
Local jewelers offer a variety of unique settings for these rare pearls found in area
lakes and rivers. The average size is about 3 millimeters although there are many
that are much larger. An annual permit is required for collecting. Call the San Angelo
Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800)375-1206
for more information.
Concho River Walk
Winding its way for 6 miles along the Concho River, the lighted River Walk wanders through
landscaped parks and gardens, past beautiful riverside homes, beneath large pecan trees,
near fountains and waterfalls, a nine hole municipal golf course, miniature golf and
children's amusement park and the River Stage. The River Walk hosts walkathons, and
special events throughout the year. Admission: Free, call (915)653-1206
for further information.
The city's first street is a charming historic district with antique and country
collectable shops, saddle shop, piano bar, a sidewalk cafe, restaurants, and Miss Hattie's
Bordello Museum in downtown San Angelo.
E. H. DANNER MUSEUM OF TELEPHONY
Named for former General Telephone Company President, E.H. Danner, the Museum is
a tribute to the world of telephone communication. Located in Officers Quarters #4 at Fort
Concho, its displays of antique instruments and equipment document the development of the
industry and the contributions of its people. Admission is included in Fort Concho
admission fee.
El Paseo De Santa Angela
This heritage trail links the historic city center with Fort Concho.
Visitors can walk from the Celebration Bridge to Fort Concho along a walkway shaded by
pecan trees with fountains accents, a collection of heritage ranch buildings and
windmills. The walkway ends in charming pavilion area at the entrance to the grounds of
Fort Concho.
Fort Concho
Strategically located at the confluence of the Concho Rivers in 1867, Fort Concho served for 22 years as home for U.S. Army forces involved
in frontier peacekeeping. During its active life, Fort Concho was occupied by cavalry and
infantry units and various companies of black soldiers, known respectfully by their Indian
enemies as Buffalo Soldiers. Today, it is recognized as the best preserved Indian Wars
fort because of extensive restoration efforts during the last three decades. In its modern
role, Fort Concho not only houses frontier-life exhibits, but also serves as the site for
special events throughout the year. Several of the 23 original and restored buildings are
furnished with original antiques and exact replicas used when the fort was active. Located
on 40 acres near downtown, this landmark is also home to three museums. Tuesday- Saturday
10-5, Sunday 1-5. Closed Mondays; Admission for Adults is $2.00; for Military & Senior
Citizens $1.50 and for students $1.25, Group rates are also available, as well as Guided
Tours.
Lakes
Nasworthy, O.C. Fisher, Twin Buttes
Miss Hatties Museum
A restored "Ladies
of the evening" saloon, parlor house, and bordello! Although it served for 50 years
as a "gentleman's social center", Miss Hattie's eventually was closed by the Texas Rangers. Today, in its
original location on historic Concho Avenue, Miss Hatties remains furnished much like it
was during its heyday, providing a look into the past to its many visitors. open Thursday
- Saturday 12-4.
Neff's Amusement Park
Children's eyes beam and laughter fills the riverbank when youngsters visit
Neff's Amusement Park located on the Concho River near downtown. With rides of all
descriptions, the facility provides River Walk excitement for the young and old alike.
small admission fee.
Parks
City boasts seven parks in
boundaries covering over 720 acres! activities include: golf, tennis, fishing, swimming,
and picnicking.
Livestock Auction Company
A visit to the "sale ring" on specified day lets the visitor see and
hear the activity of the second largest livestock auction in Texas. Ranchers, farmers and
buyers not only buy and sell sheep and cattle, they also tell tall tales to the rhythmic
chant of the auctioneer.
Visitors Information Center
A starting point; many maps, FREE literature, details about current events and
city attractions Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m. 5 p.m. ; 500 Rio Concho Dr. at Convention Center.
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