The King William District is a San Antonio jewel & strong part of our history and culture.
The Mission San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo, was secularized in 1793 and the land divided along the resident Indian families or sold in a public auction. In the 1860s the community was developed and settled by the Germans who were migrating here - nicknamed "Saurkraut Bend."
What came next was row after row of amazing architecture: Romanesque, Italianate, Neoclassical, and Queen Anne. The main entry was named after King Wilhelm I the King of Prussia in the 1870s. It developed into a row of impressive homes lined with pecan and cypress trees.
When America went to war with Germany it was renamed to Pershing Avenue. Although the name was restored a few years later, it was given the English version, King William. During the 1900s the neighborhood was the most fashionable neighborhood. Later as the city expanded, many people moved to newer, more modern areas leaving the homes to decline. By 1950's it was dilapidated.
"In 1967 the King William District was designated the first Historic Neighborhood District in Texas. It is protected under a zoning ordinance designed to "protect it for the benefit and enjoyment of the public." - San Antonio Conservation Society.
Several businesses emerged making it a thriving commercial community = HEB Corporate headquarters, Pioneer Flour, Guenther House Museum Restaurant, San Antonio River Authority, Steves Homestead Museum to name a few. Many of these homes and businesses line the World Famous San Antonio River.
Every year we celebrate "Fiesta San Antonio" - a two week party time. Each community also offers something in their area that can be added to the official schedule. the King William Fair is an artisan's play scape including fine art, crafts, live music, food, games, and fun for all.
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