Comanche and Apache in the Southwest

When Spain gained control of the Louisiana Territory, she did nothing to establish her rule in this wilderness, nor did she do much to maintain control of her territories in the region except New Orleans.

Comanche and Apache warriors regularly raided Spanish missions in Texas.  In 1756 an Apache delegation showed up at San Antonio to request a mission which the Spanish quickly built by the San Saba River.  The Apache were more interested in protection from the Comanche than being converted to Christianity...no Apache ever came to the mission for instruction.

In 1758 the Comanche burned down the mission, and slaughtered all the priests and soldiers.  A 300 man expedition was sent to retaliate but failed.  In 1772 Spain abandoned four mission and two presidios (garrisons) in eastern Texas and fell back to San Antonio to guard Mexico. 

Jose de Galvez, general of New Spain, received word in 1768 that Russian fur traders were moving south along the Pacific coast from Alaska. Madrid recognized imminent danger and set out to secure California with another chain of missions and presidios. 

Next time - Inside a Spanish settlers home in the Southwest
__________________
On this Day in Pioneer History:  On June 9, 1856, nearly 500 Mormons leave Iowa City and head west for Salt Lake City carrying all their goods and supplies in two-wheeled handcarts.