King William District
The area known as King William is home to some of San Antonio's most notable homes. The King William district is located just south of downtown along the banks of the San Antonio River. Although not situated on the riverwalk, this remarkable neighborhood boasts some of the most beautiful views of the river surrounded by colorful vegetation and spectacular historic homes. King William Photo Album
King William District History
The location of the King William neighborhood was once crop land irrigated by the San Antonio River and farmed by the residents of the Alamo. After the Alamo and other Spanish Missions were secularized, the land was no longer needed as farmland and was divided among the residents of the Alamo or sold. In the mid 1800's the area was divided into the streets presently there and became a central settling point for German immigrants. One of the first settlers in this district was Carl Guenther who started the Pioneer Flour Mill which is one of San Antonio's oldest continually operating businesses. The restaurant at Pioneer Flour Mills, the Guenther House is named for him. The true value of the King William area's historical significance is solidified by law...San Antonio's King William district was the first neighborhood to be designated by the Texas Legislature as an historical neighborhood.
King William District Today
The King William San Antonian's know today is a beautiful layout of historical mansions and bungalows that give meaning to "the older the violin, the sweeter the music". King William has its own neighborhood association that gives life and protects this valuable San Antonio residential keepsake. The residents of King William consist of some of San Antonio's elite and aristocratic citizens as well as some that simply enjoy living in a beautiful celebrated neighborhood. The streets are lined with towering trees creating a natural awning and sunshade for passing cars. Appropriately, the San Antonio Conservation Society is headquartered in the King William district along with the famed Steves Homestead. Residents in San Antonio are familiar with the long standing legacy of the Steves family. A celebration of Texas' first historically designated neighborhood occurs every year during Fiesta named the King William Fair which is an excellent opportunity for San Antonio residents and families to enjoy this remarkable part of Texas history with the King William community.
San Antonio Conservation Association - on King William Street