Proposing HemisFair 68, Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez
When you visit San Antonio and see the big convention center off Market Street or perhaps the Towers of America, which stands some 600 feet in the air, you may wonder where it all came from or how it got its name. These landmarks, and the transformation of San Antonio into a major cultural and economic hub, are a testament to the vision of one local San Antonian-Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez. His aspiration to do more for his community and the state led to the proposal of HemisFair 68, a pivotal event that significantly shaped the city's history and development.
Henry B. Gonzalez's political career began when he served on the local San Antonio city council from 1953 to 1956. Then, in 1956, he defeated Republican candidate Jesse Oppenheimer for Texas state senate. However, in 1961, his political career blossomed as he became the first Mexican American to represent Texas in the United States House of Representatives.
Gonzalez's career spanned more than 37 years representing Texas. His legendary status came through his fists when he was called a “Red” by one republican colleague, and by others, he was accused of socialism and communism, so he let fists do the talking. Gonzalez had a rough demeanor on the outside and would not back down from a fight, literally. He believed in his agenda and wanted everyone else to do the same thing. However, Gonzalez did have a big push on the political front, particularly in 1962, when he proposed to bring the World’s Fair to Texas and show everyone what Texas was all about.
The planning of the HemisFair took many years and lots of person-hours to come up with just the suitable theme, “Confluence of Civilizations in the Americas,” and the event's location. By 1966, Gonzalez and his team of local business owners had begun purchasing property and making the event more realistic. Over 92 acres of land were purchased on San Antonio's southeast side. “The fair site will be acquired under the Federal Urban Renewal Plan.” [1] The proposed fair also had its share of criticism, particularly regarding the 92 acres of land, wiping out the area known as Germantown, which was in the development path. [2] This area of neighborhoods and farmlands connected to the Alamo Mission was known as San Antonio de Valero. This area had a significant influx of immigrants, similar to Gonzalez’s family. These residents came from Poland, Germany, Mexico, and the African American community, not to mention the many historic homes, churches, and other buildings in this area. Part of the urban renewal project plan was to preserve several historic buildings in the area, with roughly 20 homes and businesses. [3] One former Germantown resident said it was an excellent place to live, like a small town surrounded by an expressway…It was a neighborhood needing some repair, but not an urban slum.” [4]
Gonzalez spoke about the upcoming HemisFair every chance he got. After his initial proposal of the fair, Texas Governor John Connally fully endorsed it. This was to be the 250th year of San Antonio’s existence and a great way to celebrate, with a big giant party. Although Gonzalez was a politician, he did not want to take all of the credit for the fairness that came into existence. Gonzalez gave most of the recognition to William R. Sinkin, the owner of Sinkin’s department stores. Sinkin was named the San Antonio Fair Inc. president on January 28, 1962. [5] Gonzalez states, “I haven’t promoted my role in getting the Fair going. I have just made suggestions and given what help I could.” [6] Gonzalez would say he does not want the credit; he only showcases our great state.
Gonzalez’s reason for proposing the fair was that he saw a steady increase in population in the Dallas and Houston areas. At that time, San Antonio was the most prominent city in Texas, but it was changing rapidly. [7] For Gonzalez, the proposed HemisFair took much time to get off the ground. It was a work in progress, from fundraising to government financing and proposed bonds. The proposed venue was to attract more than 7 million visitors to the area with an estimated cost of just over 156 million dollars, and its return is projected at just shy of $175 million. [8] So, for many investors, this looks like a great return. However, things are not always that rosy. The first step in the Gonzalez process was obtaining preliminary government funding. [9] Gonzales said, "I got $250,000 out of the House”. [10] This is a massive win for the Texas Congressman at this point. This number would be reevaluated and was changed to $125,000. Later, in 1966, the House of Representatives authorized an additional 10 million dollars for the HemisFair and a US Pavilion. [11] On top of these numbers, Gonzalez and Texas Governor John Connally are looking forward to the tourist season, and the tax revenue is estimated to surpass the 1966 mark of 86 million dollars. [12] These financial aspects were crucial in the success of HemisFair 68.
What Gonzalez helped contribute to the area was incredible; you saw many dignitaries and visitors from all over the World, including the First Lady, Prince Ranier and Princess Grace of Monaco, [13] the Spanish minister of information and tourism [14] not to mention even Batman, Adam West and Robin, Burt Ward to become honorary Texans by Governor Connolly and Congressman Gonzalez. [15] Gonzalez seemed like a giddy parent when he discussed all the great things that have happened and will continue to happen at the fair. [16] Is he wrong to feel this way? After all, this was his idea.
The changes to the skyline with the Towers of America and the addition of the Riverwalk are still, to this day, some great attractions in the area. These were additions to a once gloomy-looking skyline that rapidly changed. Today, many people are lined up at many stopping points along the riverwalk to get from place to place, thanks to Congressman Henry B. Gonzalez. His vision so far into the future and the growth of the city and economy of San Antonio was remarkable. Yes, the fair had its share of ups and downs, and 50 years later, it is still a work in progress with the revitalization program. The Towers of America is in so much need of renovations that 11.2 million dollars have been set aside for repairs, not to mention the changes that occurred to the observation deck from the people who have jumped to their deaths over time. A fair of this magnitude brings communities and people together; even for a day, it is a sense of belonging, fun, and childhood all wrapped into one.
After 37 years as a congressman, the charismatic Henry B. Gonzalez died in San Antonio on November 28, 2000. [17] During his time in Congress, Gonzalez will be noted for bringing HemisFair 68 to Texas. However, he was more remembered as a champion for people experiencing poverty and helping those in need. Gonzales said, “I am a Democrat without prefix, suffix, apology or any other kind of modification." [18] Even before Gonzalez's death, he saw good in everything, just like HemisFair, who took a significant financial hit, losing nearly seven and a half million dollars. In his 1969 speech to Congress, Gonzalez was very proud of what he had accomplished. He spoke about how the convention center attracted major meetings and how the institution of Texas Culture was like a living history museum. [19] Today, the San Antonio Convention Center graces the name of Henry B. Gonzalez to remember the legacy that he leaves.
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