History Built in 1867 on the site of the 1842 Battle of Salado, Victoria's Black Swan Inn has been a home to some of the most prestigious people in San Antonio's history. It has also hosted writers such as Erle Stanley Gardner and some of Texas' most famous musicians and artisans. The inn has celebrated with families for generations. Steeped in tradition and lore, Victoria's Black Swan Inn is the most hauntingly romantic location for your wedding. Historical Marker reads > THE BATTLE OF THE SALADO Decisive in Texas History, was fought here, September 18, 1842. Col. Mathew Caldwell and Capt. John C. Hays, commanding a force of Texas volunteers, opposed the Mexican army under General Adrian Woll that had captured San Antonio, and, with the loss of only one man, checked the last Mexican invasion of Texas and thereby prevented the capture of Austin, capital of the Republic of Texas.