Campo Santo

The Campo Santo or burial ground of the Valero Mission was located immediately in front of the church. This cemetery served the occupants of San Antonio de Valero for many years. We know from archaeological investigations and anecdotal testimony, that some of these burials extended into the walls and floors of the chapel itself, a common custom in those days. To be buried in the walls or beneath the alter of ³God¹s House² was an honor, because it is considered the holiest of ground. When the floors and walls were full, burials extended to the area immediately in front of the church. Church records from 1724 to 1782 record 954 burials in this general area.