Posted by San Antonio
Some places seem uncertain, a little disjointed, slapping the new alongside the old with careless disregard. Others seamlessly flow, showing a sense of self and place that communicates a timeless vibe to the visitor.
San Antonio felt sure. Wrapped in intricate and loving folds around the river, celebrating its essential Texas spirit in the shrine that was the Alamo, this city communicates a sense of ease. Our server Christopher noted the way the city values its history, and he would know: the restaurant, Biga, used to be a public library…where Christopher had checked out his first books as a young boy.
The city owes a debt of gratitude to architect Robert H. H. (Harvey Harold) Hugman for his design of Riverwalk. Following a flood in 1921, plans were made to create a bypass in the river and pave the preexisting portion as a storm drain. Hugman developed an alternative plan called “The Shops of Aragon and Romula” that incorporated a network of riverside walkways along the Great Bend. Staircases, bridges, and other elements would connect shops, restaurants, and businesses. In 1938, Hugman, became the WPA architect and oversaw the riverside beautification program.
Today, this WPA project has blossomed into a memorable, charming and distinctive downtown space that is a joy to explore. We will return! (Andy & Jen)
