AUSTIN, Texas —
Gov. Rick Perry and the Texas Historical Commission (THC) recognized Old Spanish Missions, Inc. (OSM, Inc.) with the prestigious Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation on March 11 at the Texas State Capitol. Gov. Perry presented the award to Archdiocesan Director Rev. David Garcia and members of the OSM, Inc. board of directors. The award is in recognition of the organization’s fundraising and preservation efforts for Missions Espada, San Juan, San José, and Concepción in San Antonio.
OSM, Inc. recently completed extensive preservation and restoration work at the iconic missions, which are owned by the Archdiocese of San Antonio. The organization embarked on a capital campaign headed by Rev. Garcia that raised $15.5 million and ended ahead of schedule in 2010. As a result, restoration work at three of the four missions include façade stabilization, removal of biological growth, and interior restoration at Mission Concepción; extensive façade stabilization and cleaning, partial restoration of exterior stone carvings, drainage remediation, and interior rehabilitation at Mission San José; and extensive foundation stabilization and interior rehabilitation at Mission San Juan. Continued evaluation and additional work is anticipated at all four properties. The creation of an endowment fund through OSM, Inc. ensures long-term care of the missions.
“The missions of San Antonio are truly state treasures, a vibrant part of the south Texas community that provide a link to the origins of our state and help give San Antonio its distinct character,” Gov. Perry said. “The hard work of Father Garcia and all the individuals at Old Spanish Mission has made it possible for these structures to stand for many generations to come, maintain a special and enduring place of worship and wonder for parishioners and anyone who admires beauty in architecture.”
A total of five Spanish Colonial missions were established in San Antonio by Franciscan Fathers in the 18th century including, Mission Valero (Alamo), Mission Concepción, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. With the exception of the Alamo, which is now under control of the State of Texas, the mission churches remain active parishes.
The National Park Service (NPS) today operates the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park in collaboration with the Archdiocese. The NPS is responsible for buildings, landscapes, and visitor centers at the compounds, while the Archdiocese cares solely for the church buildings. The site, along with the Alamo, is seeking United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural (UNESCO) designation as Texas’ first World Heritage Site.
“Thanks to Old Spanish Missions, Inc. and Father Garcia’s hard work and dedication, you have provided for care of these historic landmarks for generations to come,” said THC Chairman Matt Kreisle, who along with Gov. Perry presented the award. “Accepting the role of stewards for these real places that tell the real story of early Texas, and undertaking appropriate preservation and funding measures, will be remembered and respected for many years.”
The Governor’s Award for Historic Preservation recognizes an individual’s or organization’s highest achievement in the preservation of Texas’ prehistoric and historic heritage. One award is presented each year at a special ceremony arranged with the governor’s office. For more information, contact the THC’s History Programs Division at 512.463.5853.
