Five Points is a small community north of Downtown. It is considered a part of the larger area known as Midtown, which is rapidly re-developing and becoming more populous.
Though more population often means higher prices, Five Points is still a very affordable place to live, making it unique from its nearby neighbors like Monte Vista. It is one of the oldest communities in the city and has several sites of historical significance.
Five Points extends from Laurel Ave on the West to IH-35 to the South to San Pedro Avenue on the West and Camaron to the East.
The Five Points Neighborhood Association is one of the youngest associations in the city, established in November of 1998. Ironically, the young Association serves a community that is one of the oldest in all of San Antonio.
Their monthly meetings are held at the Villa Tranchese Apartments (307 Marshall) on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00pm. Community issues are discussed, as well as plans for the monthly newsletter, which strives to be bilingual for Spanish speakers in the area. They also discuss the assignment of "block captains" that go from door-to-door distributing community flyers and information.
Generally believed to have been established around 1890, Five Points shows its historical significance by showcasing the 368 properties within its limits. These properties include examples of classical revival style, folk Victorians and Texas vernacular architecture.
Because of all of these unique architectural landmarks, Five Points was voted as a historical district on December 7, 2006 by the city. It joins 21 other districts as having achieved historical status.
San Pedro Spring Park is a quaint park located within the confines of Five Points. Just driving by, it may not seem like a big deal but it actually is the second-oldest park of its kind in the entire United States. If you love the historical significance of older places, nearby Austin Elementary is the oldest public school facility still being used in San Antonio.
If you like historical homes, you will love Five Points. Within its boundaries are the original Hertzberg House, which has been officially given landmark status by the State of Texas. It is located at 151 Crofton St.
This home belonged to Edward Hertzberg, a German immigrant who moved to San Antonio and settled here, becoming a naturalized citizen. He opened up many businesses while here, helping to establish San Antonio as a burgeoning community in the early 1900s. He was so beloved he later became a state senator, Texas Immigration Commissioner and later a diplomat.
Five Points also includes the homes of Henry B. Gonzalez and Mateo Camargo. Gonzalez is a legendary U.S. Senator who has various things named after him throughout the city, including the downtown Convention Center and a street.
Camargo was a Mexican immigrant who moved to San Antonio and became a popular radio personality who introduced the city to Latin beats. He has a park named after him in San Antonio. You can learn more about Camargo Park on the City of San Antonio website.