Our HISTORY
San Antonio’s first spark of electricity took place here at The Espee and the energy has never left. Nestled on the outskirts of downtown and rich in San Antonio history, The Espee is now home to a multitude of exciting eclectic events and is a sister neighbor to St. Paul Square, a treasure of local gems featuring dozens of amazing eateries and bars. Come visit this iconic retired train station turned community event fun hub and make a whole day out of it!
The Espee is a place for everyone to visit, reminisce on memories, and enjoy the making of more.
Nestled right on the outskirts of “Downtown” San Antonio is this gem that has beautifully matured and thrived within our city for multiple centuries. The Espee was originally named The Southern Pacific Railroad’s Sunset Limited train route. It quickly became a famous train station that served as the central connection to a multitude of states such as California, Missouri, Louisiana, and many more. The Nation so deeply loved the Southern Pacific Depot because of all the opportunities it provided that over the years, it was tagged with many nicknames such as “The Building of 1000 lights”, “The Crossroads of America”, and “The S.P.”
TIMELINE
Today this retried train station is more hip than ever, and we simply call it “The Espee.” It remains listed on the National Register of Historic Places as ‘thank you’ for all it has done for our country. The innovative and inspirational spirit of The Southern Pacific Depot has never left these historic grounds. The Espee has experienced many chapters of growth and change, alongside the wonderful city of San Antonio. It began as the leading cause of major economic development within the State of Texas, it has hosted Presidential campaigns, iconic music videos, and continues to be a place that attracts celebrities. Take a look at our timeline below to see how The Espee has always been a center for community and a constant cause for celebration in the City of San Antonio.
The Buffalo Bayou, Brazos, and Colorado are chartered. The BBB&C is the 1st railroad in Texas.
Traveling from New Orleans to California by rail, Benjamin Harrison is the first sitting US President to visit San Antonio. This visit is the catalyst for the annual "Battle of Flowers.
The SP begins operating the coast to coast Sunset Limited train. It later evolved into a ‘1st class only’ train. Still operating today under AMRAK, it is the oldest continuously operated train in the USA.
Head House at Sunset Station suffers damage from an electrical fire.
Former President Calvin Coolidge stopped at the Southern Pacific Depot for 20 minutes. On the train, he discussed the Mt. Rushmore monument with sculptor Gutzon Borglum.
The SP reports its first annual loss, but survives the Great Depression without declaring bankruptcy, one of the few major train lines to do so.
John Hermann “Dizzy” Dean comes to San Antonio to lead his Chicago Cubs against the St. Louis Browns in two exhibition baseball games.
King Antonio XXII leads the Fiesta Parade on East Commerce Street.
Harry Truman’s presidential campaign makes stops in Uvalde and San Antonio.
John Wayne arrives in San Antonio at the Southern Pacific Depot for the premiere of Rio Grande, along with actress Maureen O’Hara and director John Ford
Selena films “No Me Queda Mas” music video at Sunset Station
The Southern Pacific is acquired by the Union Pacific. AMTRAK is asked to leave Sunset Station
Filming of the movie “Selena” at Sunset Station.
Following restoration, the complex of building opens as an entertainment venue.
Converted into a major concert venue hosting celebrity performances ranging from Vanilla Ice, Nickelback, Pat Green, Slayer, the Marley Brothers, Maroon 5, and many more.
Host for Mayor Castro’s Birthday Party.
Began hosting UTSA alumni tailgate parties.
The Espee name unveiled.
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