Located on a hill overlooking Old Town, San Diego, Presidio Park offers 40 acres of open green space, sweeping views, picnic tables and areas for leisurely recreation. Moreover, there are insights into history dating back to 1769 when the Royal Presidio of San Diego became the first fort and permanent European settlement on the Pacific Coast.
The site, where the early fort once stood, was purchased by an individual who wanted to preserve this historical site. It was later donated to the city of San Diego.
Of particular interest to students of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a collection of statuary, murals and historical plaques which interpret the presence and contribution of the Mormon Battalion in the area in early 1847. Battalion members who were stationed there assisted the community by building roads, digging wells, and constructing buildings for public use. Just below is the San Diego Mormon Battalion Historic Site center in historic Old Town.