Discoveries…America National Parks: San Antonio Missions

This new entry in filmmakers Jim and Kelly Watt's high-def filmed Discoveries…America National Parks series recounts Spain's role in the history of areas that are now part of the United States, focusing on the missions, missionaries, and indigenous populations in Texas. Narration provides an overview, while park rangers, historians, and others offer specific information on the highlighted sites, including San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, comprising Missions Concepción, San José, San Juan Capistrano, and Espada—all established by Catholic religious orders in the mid-to-late 1700s to not only spread Catholicism among the native peoples, but also make them productive contributors to Spain's growing colonial empire and economic wealth. Also covered are the Alamo, famed as a battleground for the independence of the Republic of Texas; Presidio La Bahia, site of a massacre of Texans that sparked additional support for the cause against Mexico; El Camino Real de los Tejas, the historic roadway that would foster frontier settlements; and the popular and beautiful San Antonio River Walk. Viewers will also see artisans involved in preservation and restoration efforts, reminding us of the ongoing work that is required to keep history alive and accessible. The combination of impressive visuals and engaging insights here makes for a winning travelogue. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)