San Antonio Opens Municipal Archives Museum Showcasing 300 Years of History

The City of San Antonio has inaugurated the Municipal Archives Museum, providing a comprehensive glimpse into over three centuries of the city’s governmental history. Opened on October 10, 2023, the museum is situated within the Municipal Archives & Records Center at 719 South Santa Rosa Avenue. This new facility showcases a range of preserved documents, photographs, artifacts, and multimedia displays that chronicle the development of San Antonio’s municipal governance.

Connecting the Community to Its History

City Clerk Debbie Racca-Sittre emphasized the museum’s role in fostering community engagement, stating, “The Municipal Archives Museum is more than a collection of historical records. It is a vibrant space where the community can connect with the legacy of civic service, government transparency, and the growth of our great city.”

The museum’s inaugural exhibit includes significant items such as a hand-carved City Seal created in 1925 by woodcarver Johannes C. Scholze, and the minutes from the San Fernando de Béxar City Council dating back to 1818. Additionally, visitors can view a survey map from 1849 of land owned by Samuel A. Maverick, which notably includes the Alamo. The exhibit also features the lyrics and album for the city song “San Antonio, Ciudad de Encantos.”

Visiting the Museum

The Municipal Archives Museum is free to the public but operates on an appointment-only basis during weekdays. Interested visitors can request an appointment or find more information through the museum’s official website.

This initiative marks a significant step in preserving and presenting San Antonio’s rich governmental legacy, inviting residents and guests alike to engage with the history that has shaped the city over the last three centuries.