San Antonio, Bexar County
In 1810, Don Jose Miguel de Arciniega (1793-1849), a maker of Texas, entered the Spanish military at the age of 17. After the Mexican War for Independence in 1821, Arciniega held many municipal posts, including San Antonio Alcalde in 1830 and Political Chief in 1833. He also served as a land commissioner for Stephen F. Austin’s colonies. After the Texas Revolution, Arciniega continued to serve in judicial roles as well as oversee the security of Texas borders. Arciniega served as a major leader in Texas even as its own government changed many times. He was fluent in Spanish, French and English and spoke several Native American dialects. Arciniega street runs near the site of his old homestead.