Name/Title
"Military Plaza, Market in the Morning" [Lithograph]Description
An 1876 lithograph of "Military Plaza, Market in the Morning" from the Galveston, Harrisburg & San Antonio Railway Company’s book “A Description of Western Texas.”Context
Military importance of the Plaza de Armas (Military Plaza) declined in Republic of Texas Era (1836-1845), but it came to be one of the liveliest spots in Texas. A busy market, it teemed with noisy vendors of vegetables, fresh eggs, chili peppers, and live chickens. Oxcarts and wagons stood bulging with hay, hides, and wood. Strolling guitarists, tourists, and girls selling songbirds mingled with pickpockets and other characters. Frequently cock fights were held.
“A Description of Western Texas" is an extensively illustrated guide for prospective immigrants to western Texas. Published by the Galveston, Harrisburg & San Antonio Railway Company in 1876, the text provides descriptions of the cities, towns, and counties of western Texas, complemented by additional information on a variety of topics of interest for those considering a move to the region. Executed in an accomplished, understated style, the lithographs serve as a marvelous invitation to the region.
Eberstadt called the book "a valuable description of the lands, towns, agricultural prospects of West Texas, of high interest for the lithographic views."