An Archaeological Evaluation of 41BX784 a Historic Homestead in Bexar County Texas

Abstract

Brazos Valley Research Associates (BVRA) conducted an evaluation of previously recorded historic site 41BX784 in central Bexar County on March 13, 2006 for Rosillo Creek Development Ltd. of Laredo, Texas. This action was initiated by a request from the City of San Antonio, Office of Historic Preservation. The Texas Historical Commission, Archeology Division has no jurisdiction in this project; therefore, an antiquities permit was not required.

This site was recorded by Leonard K. Voellinger of Espey, Houston & Associates, Inc. (now PBS&J) in 1987 as the Richard Hild farm which was occupied during the early part of the 20th century (circa 1903) until 1987. At the time of this survey the investigators observed two water troughs, two cisterns, a tank (earthen pond) and associated wood frame pump house, three concrete slabs, and seven rubble piles representing two house sites and five ancillary structures. Espey, Huston & Associates, Inc. recommended additional work at this site to determine its eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places.

This site was found by BVRA to be virtually destroyed with only five intact or partially intact features present. These are the pump house, a rectangular water trough, a sandstone and mortar retaining wall, a sandstone and mortar feature of unknown function, and a metal cattle guard. The cinder block cistern noted by Voellinger is no longer present, and the piles of wooden rubble from bulldozed structures are also absent. Based on the evidence observed by BVRA, site 41BX784 is not eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places or for designation as a State Archeological Landmark. No further work is recommended, and construction should be allowed to proceed as.planned.

Copies of the report are on file at the City of San Antonio, Office of Historic Preservation; Texas Historical Commission; Texas Archeological Research Laboratory (TARL); Rosillo Creek Development Ltd.;and BVRA.