Local History

Goliad's name is an anagram — here's why that matters

The town of Goliad was renamed in 1829 as a tribute to Father Hidalgo, the priest who sparked Mexican independence.

The town was first called La Bahia. That name came from a nearby Spanish fort and mission. In 1829, a local leader asked the Mexican government to change the name.

The new name chosen was Goliad. It is an anagram of 'Hidalgo.' That is a tribute to Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. He started Mexico's war of independence from Spain.

On February 4, 1829, La Bahia officially became Villa de Goliad. The area has a layered past. It was shaped by Spanish, Mexican, Tejano, and Anglo-Texan people at different times. The Texas State Historical Association's Handbook of Texas covers this history in detail.

Source to confirm: Texas State Historical Association — Goliad, TX

More Goliad County notes

Property Tax

Who handles your property taxes in Goliad County

Two separate offices handle property taxes here — one sets your value, and another collects the bill.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead exemption can lower your tax bill in Goliad County

If your home is your main residence, you likely qualify for a homestead exemption that reduces what you owe in property taxes.

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Water Wells

A groundwater district oversees water wells in Goliad County

If you plan to drill a water well on rural property here, the Goliad County Groundwater Conservation District has rules you need to follow.

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Fishing

Coleto Creek Reservoir offers public fishing near Goliad County

A 3,100-acre reservoir on the Goliad-Victoria county line gives anglers public access to largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and more.

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