Apache Pass Crossing: During the eighteenth century, the land was inhabited by numerous Native American tribes,including the Apaches. Apache Pass became a hub for Spanish explorers and settlers. After the missions were closed, the area continued to attract pioneers building homes on both sides of the river because of its fertile soil and fresh water supply. In 1913, a bridge was built across the river and traffic transferred to it. In 2004, the United States Congress authorized the designation of a Historic Trail in Texas. El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic trail was recognized and the Apache Pass River Crossing became a part of it as well as the National Register of Historic Places.