Resaca de la Palma Battlefield

Resaca de la Palma Battlefield is a natural area in Brownsville with walking trails and interpretive signs across former combat grounds where Mexican and American forces clashed. The landscape features sections of the original resaca, a former river channel that influenced military positions during the engagement.

The site saw combat between General Zachary Taylor and General Mariano Arista on May 9, 1846, resulting in an American victory. This battle became a significant moment in the larger conflict between the two nations along the border.

The site preserves memories of the Mexican-American War through educational programs and guided tours that explain military tactics and troop positions. Visitors can see how the landscape shaped the choices commanders made during the battle.

The grounds are accessible through marked trails with parking available for visitors. Walking the site is straightforward, and information displays throughout help you understand the battle positions.

The name resaca comes from a Spanish word for an old river channel, and you can still see how this terrain shaped military decisions on that day. The preserved waterways were crucial to how troops positioned and moved during the engagement.

Location: Brownsville

GPS coordinates: 25.93750,-97.48611

Latest update: December 14, 2025 09:46