Documentation:
Santander. August 26, 1793. 24p. Informe. Original. Population figures (comparison of current total with that at beginning of conquest), hostilities, plans to create presidio of 100 men to repel indian attacks. As there are not enough soldiers for presidio, settlers will be recruited. Cost of plan estimated at 10,000 pesos. Information on establishment of settlements; how haciendas figure into defense plan against tamaulipas indians. Sierra gorda says, que solo nos falta para acaver de dominar esta sierra el laborio de minas. advises against murgier's presidio idea. Mentions plan to sell assets of religious personnel to fund defense. Castro suggests acavar con ellos is only solution. Lists indian population at conquest as 5-6,000; at writing as 5-600 but armed; sierra gorda suggests that defense effort be moved north. Advises against new missions, as all but zaraquayes and pacitas are already pacified. Mentions that Veracruz, Santander are better than this area for shipping salt to Spain, for transport cost, fletes; local fishing could be enhanced, but americans, French have advantage of using smaller vessels. Advocates strengthening fishing industry in Santander, rio del norte to limit further encroachment into Spanish waters. Discusses how flete overland is determined; more cost effective to carefully time maritime travel. Total cost of all development proposals is 36,000 pesos. (O. Velez, February 1990)
