The land that is now Lions Field used to be a pasture for George W. Brackenridge’s collection of exotic animals, including buffalo and elk! In 1906, Brackenridge sold the property, and it stayed in private hands until 1916, when the City took it over. It stayed undeveloped until 1923, when the Lions Club of San Antonio, the largest Lions Club in the world, chose this spot to build a playground as a gift to the city.
The iconic landmark at Lions Field is a life-sized lion sculpture sitting on a stone pedestal. This incredible lion, designed and carved by Louis Rodriguez, stands 8 feet tall and is 14 feet long, made from beautiful Italian marble. It’s been a landmark on Broadway since 1925! Sadly, the lion was knocked off its pedestal and lost its legs and tail when a tree fell on it during the July 2002 floods. But after being gone for six months, it was restored by Lupe Rodriguez (Louis’ nephew), and now it’s back where it belongs. Lions Field continues to be an active spot for recreation, bringing history and fun together!
