“Remember the Alamo” is a phrase known by every Texan. But have you heard the name Placido Olivarri? This Placido Olivarri Plaque honors a man who risked his life for Texas independence. Let’s delve into the story of this unsung hero.
The Placido Olivarri Plaque stands as a tribute to a true Texas patriot. Placido Olivarri was born in San Antonio in February 1815. His family had deep roots in the city. José Olivarri, his ancestor, arrived from the Basque region of Spain and settled here.
During the Texas Revolution, Placido Olivarri served as a scout for the Texas Revolutionary Army. He worked under the command of Sam Houston. His skills were unmatched. He provided critical intelligence to the Texan forces. General Martín Perfecto de Cos, a Mexican commander, placed a bounty on Olivarri’s head. He wanted Olivarri captured dead or alive. Mexican sympathizers in San Antonio tried to capture him. Olivarri evaded them by hiding on Bowen’s Island in the San Antonio River. Imagine the danger. Imagine the stakes.
After the revolution, Placido Olivarri became a landowner. He also managed wagon trains in San Antonio. In 1838, he received land from the state of Texas. He was married twice. His first wife was Juana Padillo y Olivarri. She died around 1862. Later, he married Micaela Jimenes. Together, they had fourteen children.
Placido Olivarri was a respected member of the community. He was a member of the Sociedad Mutualista Mexicana. City directories in the 1880s and early 1890s listed him as a ranchman. In 1892, the San Antonio Daily Express listed a Placido Olivarri as chairman of his voting precinct. It could have been him or his son.
Placido Olivarri lived in San Antonio his entire life. He died on September 8, 1894. He was buried in San Fernando Cemetery No. 1. In 1936, the Texas Centennial Commission erected a marker at his grave. This Placido Olivarri Plaque ensures his contributions are never forgotten.
The Olivarri family papers include financial and legal documents. They also include notes and letters. These papers document Placido Olivarri and his wife Micaela Jimenes de Olivarri. The Placido Olivarri Plaque is more than just a marker. It represents the courage and dedication of a man who helped shape Texas. Remember Placido Olivarri. Remember his sacrifice. Remember his contribution to the Lone Star State.