Zapata County has a long history, going as far back as 8,000 B.C. when reportedly the first people to live in the America’s crossed over from Asia. The first exploration along the Rio Grande River was conducted in 1520, but only along the mouth of the river. At that time many different groups were found living along the river, speaking diverse languages. However, by the 1700’s, settlement of the coastal areas had forced many Native Americans from their lands onto neighboring tribal lands, causing conflict and spreading diseases contracted from the Europeans, resulting in the death and loss of many of the native inhabitants.

In 1746 the area was named Nuevo Santander by Spain, and plans for colonization were set in motion with the naming of Don Jose de Escandon as Governor. By 1747 Captain Miguel de la Garza Falcon arrived in the area as leader of one of the seven expeditionary groups sent to explore the Nuevo Santander lands led by Don Jose de Escandon and Elguera. Captain Falcon was the first to thoroughly explore the region including what is now Zapata County. He started in what is present day Eagle Pass, and followed the river to the mouth of the Rio Grande. His report was not very favorable, due to concerns for adequate water. However, Escandon went forward with his plan to establish settlements on both sides of the Rio Grande River.

To learn more click here