Webb County Heritage Foundation News

WCHF Announces Dr. Alison M. Hadley as President of the Board of Directors

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 23:03:54 GMT

Webb County Heritage Foundation Announces Dr. Alison M. Hadley as President of the Board of Directors

LAREDO, TEXAS — The Webb County Heritage Foundation (WCHF) is pleased to announce that Dr. Alison M. Hadley, archaeologist and associate professor of anthropology at Texas A&M International University, has been elected President of the organization’s Board of Directors.

Dr. Hadley holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology from the University of Kansas, a Master of Arts from the University of Kentucky, and a Bachelor of Arts, magna cum laude, from the University of South Alabama. Her research and publications focus on archaeology, cultural landscapes, and the history of the borderlands, and she has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals while mentoring students and conducting research in South Texas.

As President of the Board, Dr. Hadley hopes to strengthen the Foundation’s archival initiatives and support continued preservation work.

"WCHF’s long-term goals include restarting and strengthening our archives so that they will be accessible to researchers, students, and visitors in the future. We are also planning multiple fundraising opportunities and events to support further restoration of the Lockwood Building, so that it will be accessible to the public in the future," said Dr. Hadley.

Andrea Ordoñez, Director of Operations of the Webb County Heritage Foundation, shared her enthusiasm for the appointment.

"It has been a pleasure working with Dr. Hadley over the past few years, and we are looking forward to continuing that collaboration. Her knowledge and expertise will help guide us as we reevaluate our archives and work toward making them accessible to the community again."

The Webb County Heritage Foundation seeks to raise awareness and appreciation of Webb County’s heritage by advocating for the protection and preservation of historic architecture, ranching heritage, and the cultural traditions, customs, and folklore of the border region through heritage education and heritage tourism. The Foundation operates the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum and the Border Heritage Museum in downtown Laredo and hosts educational programs, exhibits, and community events that help share the history of the region with residents and visitors alike.

WCHF Director receives Scholarship to Real Places Conference

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 22:23:26 GMT

Laredo, Texas — The Texas Tropical Trail Region has awarded scholarships to two heritage professionals to attend the Real Places Conference, hosted by the Texas Historical Commission. The 2026 conference will take place April 8–10 in Austin.

One of this year’s scholarship recipients is Andrea Ordoñez, Director of Operations for the Webb County Heritage Foundation.

The Real Places Conference is an annual statewide gathering for preservation professionals, museum staff, historians, and community advocates. The conference offers practical training, networking opportunities, and professional development focused on preserving historic buildings, cultural landscapes, and community heritage. Sessions cover topics such as preservation planning, museum interpretation, historic site care, storytelling, and nonprofit leadership.

“I am incredibly grateful to the Texas Tropical Trail Region for awarding me this scholarship,” said Ordoñez. “Attending Real Places has been a goal of mine for years, and I was beyond excited to receive the call. I look forward to learning from preservation professionals and bringing back new ideas that will help our community preserve its past while planning for the future.”

Members of the Texas Tropical Trail Region Board of Directors shared that they are pleased to financially support professionals working in history and preservation throughout the region.

The Texas Tropical Trail Region is one of the official Texas Heritage Trail Regions created by the Texas Historical Commission to support heritage tourism and historic preservation in South Texas. The organization works closely with museums, historical commissions, preservation groups, and community partners to promote and protect the region’s unique cultural and architectural heritage. Through education, networking, and programs such as its scholarship support, the organization helps equip preservation professionals and volunteers with the tools needed to safeguard the stories and historic places of South Texas.

Participation in the Real Places Conference will support the Webb County Heritage Foundation’s ongoing efforts to preserve, interpret, and share the history of Laredo and Webb County through museums, public programs, and advocacy

Webb County Heritage Foundation Launches "The Webbcast"

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 15:43:15 GMT

LAREDO, TX — The Webb County Heritage Foundation is proud to announce the launch of The Webbcast, a new digital series designed to bring local history, culture, and community highlights to life in a fun and engaging way.

The Webbcast is the culmination of the summer internship of Alisa Peña and Mariela Pineda, who worked closely with the Foundation to develop fresh, creative content for social media. They were joined by experienced content creator Valerie González, who served as production assistant and helped bring the vision to life through her creative insight and technical support.

“We wanted to create something that celebrates Laredo’s past while speaking to the present,” said Andrea Ordoñez, Director of Operations at the Webb County Heritage Foundation. “Alisa, Mariela, and Valerie brought incredible energy and ideas to this project. The Webbcast is a reflection of their creativity and the WCHF’s commitment to education and outreach.”

Episodes are available on the Foundation’s social media platforms and will feature rotating themes, from history to food, cultural events, and more.

For more information or to watch the latest episodes, follow the Webb County Heritage Foundation on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.

The Webbcast Credits

Andrea Ordoñez
Host and Writer

Mariela Pineda
Co-Host

Alisa Peña
Field Reporter

Valerie Gonzalez
Community Correspondent and Production Assistant

Leonardo Ordoñez
History Facts Reporter

Edwardo Garcia
Director, Producer, Sound Designer,Motion Picture, and Editor

The Webbcast is sponsored by:

County of Webb
City of Laredo
The Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Foundation

Border Heritage Museum Hosts 'Hearts & Heritage' Valentine's Event

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 22:06:54 GMT

Celebrate love, friendship, and community with the Webb County Heritage Foundation at the Border Heritage Museum during CaminArte on Friday, February 7th, from 6 to 9 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The evening will feature a special screening of the romantic comedy 10 Things I Hate About You, along with a friendship bracelet station where attendees can create keepsakes with their loved ones.

"Valentine's is our second favorite holiday of the year! We thought it would be wonderful to celebrate it along with the community we love so much," said Andrea Ordoñez, Manager of the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum. "We are also happy to have our friends, Lee Douglas Diaz, II and Erica Garcia, supporting us once again for a movie night at the museum."

The event will also feature sweet treats and cozy drinks provided by local vendors:

Gloria’s Coffee Bar will offer drinks from their special Valentine’s menu.
Sabor a Cielo will have delicious pastries for sale.
My Lovely Any will present her adorable crochet creations.

"We love supporting our local vendors and are excited to be joined by some community favorites. Be sure to stop by and show your support for both your local museum and the amazing artists who make our city special." said Ordoñez.

This evening promises a blend of community fun, delicious treats, and activities perfect for celebrating the season of love. Don’t miss out!

WCHF Hosts Historic Laredo Photo Competition Exhibit Opening

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 19:53:33 GMT

The Webb County Heritage Foundation invites the community to an opening reception for the “Historic Laredo Photo Competition exhibit on Thursday, December 12, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Villa Antigua® Border Heritage Museum, located at 810 Zaragoza Street. The public is encouraged to attend and enjoy a showcase of local talent celebrating Laredo and Webb County. The exhibit will remain on display throughout December and January.

“We’re so impressed by the creativity and skill of everyone who participated in the competition,” said Edwardo Garcia, manager of the Border Heritage Museum. “Each photo tells a story about our community, and we’re happy to share these amazing works with the public.”

The exhibit features entries from this year’s competition, including the winning photographs:

First Place:

Antonio Briones, “Tortilleria La Fe”

Second Place:

Jesus Gaona, “Overpass Loop 20”

Third Place:

Cesar Gabriel Gomez, “Pigeons Flying at St. Peter’s Plaza”

“It’s always exciting to see how photographers capture Laredo’s rich heritage,” Garcia added. “This year’s entries are stunning. We’re so grateful to everyone who shared their talents with us and helped celebrate what makes our region so special.”

The Historic Laredo and Webb County Photo Competition was created to highlight the area’s historic architecture, landmarks, and cultural features while encouraging a deeper appreciation for the region’s unique heritage.

For more information, please contact the Webb County Heritage Foundation at
(956) 727-0977.

AMERICAN TACO 2.0 BOOK TOUR STOPS AT THE BORDER HERITAGE MUSEUM

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 16:51:18 GMT

Ever wanted to explore the rich history of tacos? Now’s your chance! On Saturday, September 14, from 12 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., the Border Heritage Museum will host a special event featuring a discussion and Q&A on taco history with José R. Ralat, Taco Editor at Texas Monthly and two-time James Beard Award winner, along with Ito Romo and Rodrigo Bravo, Jr. from Nuestra Palabra. Following the discussion, José R. Ralat will hold a book signing for his acclaimed book, "American Tacos: A History and Guide." This event is free and open to the public.

As part of the American Tacos Book Tour, the Webb County Historical Commission and Laredo Cultural District are also happy to host a Tortilla-Making Workshop at Casa Ortiz at 11:00 a.m. Learn the art of making tortillas, and discover how a simple process has deep roots in our culinary traditions.

"This is a great opportunity for us to connect with our roots through food," said Andrea Ordonez, museum manager. "Making tortillas might seem simple, pero tiene su chiste (but it has its own skill). Don’t miss this workshop!"

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Por Vida Tattoos will be at the Laredo Center for the Arts from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. offering taco-themed flash tattoos for those who want to make their love for tacos permanent.

Join us downtown to celebrate the Independencia de Mexico with food, history, and community!

WCHF Announces 2024 Historic Laredo Photo Contest

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 21:08:42 GMT

Laredo, TX – The Webb County Heritage Foundation is excited to announce the 2024 Historic Laredo Photo Contest, inviting photographers of all skill levels to capture and celebrate the rich heritage of Laredo. Participants have the opportunity to showcase their favorite historic landmarks, buildings, architectural details, landscapes, or any subject that portrays the unique local heritage of Laredo.

Photographers are competing for a grand prize of $500, with additional winners selected to be featured in the 2025 Historic Laredo Calendar. All entries must be received by Friday, September 6, 2024.

“Continuing this tradition for the 14th year, we are happy to host the photo contest once again,” said Edwardo Garcia, Border Heritage Museum Manager. “We look forward to seeing how photographers, whether they are professionals, amateurs, or beginners, capture the essence of Laredo through their unique perspectives.”

All entries in the Historic Laredo Photo Competition will be displayed on exhibit at the Villa Antigua® Border Heritage Museum in December.

For entry forms and additional details, Follow us on social media @webbheritage

Webb County Heritage Foundation Celebrates Make Music Day Virtually

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 22:28:35 GMT

Laredo, Texas - The Webb County Heritage Foundation (WCHF) announces a change in plans for Make Music Day celebrations due to predicted inclement weather in Laredo this weekend. In the interest of safety for performers, visitors, and staff, the foundation has decided to move the live performances to a virtual format.

"The safety of the performers, visitors, and staff is our priority," said museum manager Andrea Ordonez. "Instead, we have moved the live performances to online programming."

This weekend, WCHF will be uploading recorded live performances from the Border Heritage Museum by local artists, including Kamila y Bella Divas, a conjunto group from Laredo, Texas, and Amor Brujo, a talented trio, among others.

Music enthusiasts can enjoy these performances by visiting the WCHF’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/webbheritage or their YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/webbcountyheritage.

About Webb County Heritage Foundation:
The Webb County Heritage Foundation is dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural and historical heritage of Webb County. Through various programs, events, and initiatives, the foundation works to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s diverse history.

JOIN US TO CELEBRATE LAREDO'S BIRTHDAY!

Sat, 20 Apr 2024 19:58:22 GMT

Laredo, Texas - Join us as we commemorate a significant milestone in Laredo's history - its 269th birthday! On Saturday, May 18th, Downtown Laredo will come alive with festivities, honoring the vibrant culture and rich heritage that make our city unique.

Organized by the Webb County Heritage Foundation and supported by local partners, Border Heritage Museum, Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, Laredo Main Street, Laredo Center for the Arts, Laredo Cultural District, Webb County Historical Commission, Laredo College, Rio Grande International Study Center, Texas A&M International University, Laredo Film Society, Daphne Art Foundation, The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo, the Imaginarium of South Texas, 9Bike6, MileOne, Laredo Philharmonic, Gabiela Mendoza- Garcia Ballet Folklorico, Gallery 201, Laredo Border Slam, and the American Legion Post 59, this event promises to be a special occasion for the entire community. From historical and art exhibits, a farmers' market and a pop-up shop to cultural performances, tours, and a scavenger hunt, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, it's free* and open to all, ensuring that everyone can be a part of this special day.

"We are thrilled to create an event for the community to come together and celebrate their city and their heritage," said Andrea Ordoñez, Museum Manager at Webb County Heritage Foundation. "We welcome everyone to attend this celebration, learn about the history, and support local non-profits and businesses downtown."

While revelers explore the festivities, we encourage them to support our downtown culinary scene. Downtown eateries such as El Meson de San Agustin, Livi's Mexicue, ALA Burger_ Burgers & Alitas, and Los Olvidados will be offering special deals in honor of Laredo's Birthday Celebration. Plus, Marble Slab Creamery and 7 Brew Coffee will be offering free ice cream and coffee at The Outlet Shoppes Pop-Up event (while supplies last). And for those seeking to extend the festivities, "El After" awaits at Jardin X Contreras!

Don't miss this opportunity to come together and celebrate Laredo's past, present, and future. Join us for a day filled with joy, culture, and community spirit. See you there!

*Imaginarium of South Texas will have their regular admission

For updates, please visit: www.facebook.com/webbheritage
or find us on Instagram - @webbheritage

WEBB COUNTY HERITAGE FOUNDATION JOINS CAMINARTE WITH KARAOKE NIGHT

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 17:25:21 GMT

The Webb County Heritage Foundation is happy to announce its participation as a partner in CaminARTE. As a part of this collaboration, the WCHF invites the public to join them for a Karaoke at the Museum on Friday, April 5th, from 7-9 p.m.

CaminARTE, a monthly event known for its celebration of culture, arts, and community engagement, provides the perfect platform for the Webb County Heritage Foundation to showcase its dedication to preserving and promoting local heritage. Through this partnership, the foundation aims to create dynamic experiences that resonate with the community.

Karaoke at the Museum promises an evening filled with music, laughter and fun. Attendees are encouraged to channel their favorite stars and showcase their vocal talents. Whether participants are seasoned performers or first-time singers, everyone is welcome to join.

"We are thrilled to be a part of CaminARTE and to offer the community a unique opportunity to engage with our museum in a fun and interactive way," said Edwardo Garcia, Manager of the Border Heritage Museum. "Karaoke at the Museum is just the beginning of what we hope will be a fruitful partnership with the Laredo Cultural District."

Don't miss out on this exciting event at the Border Heritage Museum! Mark your calendars for Friday, April 5th, and get ready to sing your heart out!

FOUNDATION NAMES HERITAGE AWARDS RECIPIENTS

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 21:27:07 GMT

The Webb County Heritage Foundation presented ten honorees with the prestigious Heritage Award at the Inauguration of the President of the Republic of the Rio Grande Luncheon on March 9^th at the IBC Annex Ballroom.

Each year, the Webb County Heritage Foundation recognizes individuals, businesses, organizations, and families that have contributed to the unique architectural and cultural heritage of Webb County.

The Jim Parish Award for Documentation and Publication of Local and Regional History was presented Dr. Maria Alma Gonzalez Perez for her publication, Apariciones, Voces, Ruidos y Cosas Inexplicables: An Anthology of Folktales & Personal Narratives from the Texas-Mexico Borderlands.

The Volunteer Service Award was presented to Kristina Soliz and Ernesto Riojas for their volunteer work during our 2023 Founders’ Day event.

The Archival Donor Award was presented to two recipients this year. Mrs. Emma Garcia for her donation of photographs from when Mario Moreno "Cantinflas" visited her home for dinner in 1979, when he was recognized as “Señor Internacional” by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) during the Washington’s Birthday Celebration and the Laredo Morning Times for their donation of bound volumes of daily newspapers spanning approximately six decades of Laredo history.

The Environmental Preservation Award was presented to Palo Blanco Farm and Ranch for bringing innovative and resource-efficient farming to Laredo, feeding their community, and continuing the vision and dedication of their ancestors to be good stewards of the land.

The Luciano Guajardo award was presented to Granaderos y Damas de Galvez for continuing to educate the public about Spain’s participation in the American Revolution.

The Institutional Historic Preservation Award was presented to Bishop James Tamayo of San Agustin Cathedral for the historic rehabilitation of the church.

Chosen to receive the Historic Business Award this year is Neel Title Corporation in recognition of their 99 years in business.

And the Historic Preservation Award for Organizations was presented to the Pan American Round Table of Laredo in recognition of their 102^nd anniversary of service to the community.

The Webb County Heritage Foundation is proud to present these worthy recipients with a Heritage Award in recognition of their services in preserving this region’s history, architecture, and cultural heritage.

HERITAGE FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES JAMES MOORE AS THE 2024 PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF THE RIO GRANDE

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 21:12:03 GMT

The Webb County Heritage Foundation is proud to announce the appointment of James E. Moore as the President of the Republic of the Rio Grande for 2024. This honorary position is awarded annually to individuals who have shown exceptional dedication to preserving the rich heritage of Laredo along the Rio Grande.

Moore will be officially inaugurated as President of the Republic of the Rio Grande during a celebratory luncheon hosted by the Webb County Heritage Foundation on Saturday, March 9th at 12 noon at the IBC Annex Building.

As is tradition, the newly appointed President has selected individuals to serve as cabinet members, representing key historical figures from the original republic's administration. The cabinet members for 2024 are as follows:

From left: Liz Gomez Padilla representing Juan Francisco Farias, Secretary; Ernesto Lopez representing Juan Nepomuceno Molano, delegate for Tamaulipas; Rev. Paul Frey representing Antonio Canales, Commander-in-Chief of the Army; James Moore representing Jesús Cardenas, President; Baldomero Puig, III representing Manuel Nina, Quartermaster General; Lupita Zepeda representing Manuel María de Llano, delegate for Nuevo Leon; Mario Guzman representing Francisco Vidaurri y Villaseñor, Vice-President and delegate for Coahuila; and Minerva Santos representing Col. Antonio Zapata, Commander of the Cavalry.

In addition, the annual presentation of Heritage Awards will honor those individuals and organizations that have shown outstanding commitment to preserving our community’s history and heritage.

For those interested in attending the President of the Republic of the Rio Grande Inaugural Event, table reservations and tickets are available. For more information, please contact the Webb County Heritage Foundation at 956-727-0977.

PRESERVATION LEADER RETIRES AFTER 28 YEARS

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 19:50:14 GMT

The Webb County Heritage Foundation announces the retirement of its Executive Director Margarita Araiza, after 28 years of service in this role. Araiza, a well-known leader in the field of historic preservation, this month alone, completed one last major project before her exit - the opening of the Ursuline History Center – a mini museum dedicated to educating audiences about the history of the first women religious educators in this region. This beautiful, new exhibit is a collaboration among the Ursuline Sisters of the Central Province, the Webb County Heritage Foundation, St. Augustine School, and the Ursuline Alumnae Committee.

Also this year, Araiza was asked to serve on a jury to select the winner of the Organizational Excellence Award presented by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. She is one of five Texans that serve on the National Trust’s Board of Advisors.

Similarly, she was invited to judge applications to the Texas Historical Commission’s Preservation Trust Fund that provides matching grants for historic preservation projects throughout the state of Texas.

Board Member Gabriela Mendoza-Garcia stated "Margarita has a wealth of knowledge in Laredo history and historic preservation. She passionately sought for Laredoans to recognize and remember our history at the local, state, national, and international levels. She is a remarkable advocate that will be missed."

Judith Gutierrez, another WCHF Board Member recalled how Araiza had such a widespread network of professional colleagues who acknowledged her expertise by inviting her to speak at numerous state and national conferences throughout her career. “Margarita is always greeted very warmly by her fellow preservationists whenever she attends conferences. She is a well-known figure in preservation circles,” said Gutierrez.

Araiza was fond of recalling that she was recruited to apply for her position as Executive Director by Betsy Gill, a generous and dynamic Board Member who contributed significant collections of historic photographs, documents, and artifacts to the Webb County Heritage Foundation’s archives. “Betsy was a force of nature around here,” Araiza said. “She had a deep and some-would-say fierce commitment to preserving local history. I’ve never known anyone like Betsy, and I can sincerely say that she instilled a real appreciation and love for our community’s story in me and all those who saw her in action. She is my preservation hero.”

Local journalist and publisher of the independent LareDOS - Journal of the Borderlands Meg Guerra stated, “When the late Elizabeth Gill recruited Margarita Araiza to become the director of the Webb County Heritage Foundation nearly 30 years ago, it became quickly evident to many of
us that Margarita’s energy and professionalism breathed new life into the non-profit. Her three-decade commitment was unwavering and brought to fruition what shall surely be recorded as the most productive years in the Foundation’s history. As an advocate for historic and cultural preservation, Margarita raised the bar for the Foundation’s relevance to the community as a resource for research and education for Laredoans of all ages.”

Board Member Jim Moore added, “We thank Margarita for all of her efforts in guiding the Foundation throughout her years at WCHF. She represented the City of Laredo through some difficult times. As she retires, we wish her well and thanks for her leadership.”

Araiza has an impressive list of accomplishments that she readily shares with her staff and countless Board Members over the span of 28 years. Among these are the creation of the Villa Antigua Border Heritage Museum – a showcase for exhibits focused on regional history housed in a rehabilitated historic building once slated for demolition; the establishment of a Laredo history curriculum for local schools – the first time local history was taught to local students; the commissioning of a comprehensive, new historical exhibit on the subject of the Republic of the Rio Grande – designed to teach this important chapter of our community’s story to visitors and locals, alike; and a series of oral histories and videos on local history topics that continue to be appreciated by countless viewers on social media.

“I have been very fortunate to work with some of the best people I could have hoped for – Edwardo Garcia, Andrea Ordoñez, and Lupita Valdepeña – outstanding collaborators, who I’m proud to count as friends as well as co-workers,” said Araiza. “I’m proud of the work we’ve done, and give my sincere thanks to all the supporters, sponsors, corporate citizens, elected officials, and friends who have shown their love of local history over the years. It has been a privilege to contribute to the promotion and protection of our community’s rich history.”