Historic Preservation Plan

CITY OF lAREDO
HISIDRIC PRESERVATION
PLAN
RESOLUTION NO. 96-R-031
A RESOLUTION ADOPTING TBB CITY OP LARBDO
HISTORIC PRISIRVATION PLAN
WHEREAS, the City of Laredo is one of the oldest cities in
the United States founded on May 15, 1755; and
WHEREAS, the benefits of historic preservation include a
visually attractive urban space, the creation of jobs, the
opening of new business, ·increased tourism, and the
revitalization of older neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, the City of Laredo Historic
P~eservation
Plan shall
be incorporated as an element of the Comprehensive Plan and shall
serve as a policy statement on proposed and adopted preservation
strategies;
TO NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF LAREDO THAT :
THE CITY OF LAREDO HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN BE ADOPTED AND
INCORPORATED INTO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN .
PASSED BY THE CITY COUNCIL AND APPROVED BY THE MAYOR
ON THIS THE ~5 HI DAY OF /..fA-t!ICH
1996.
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BY:
FOR:
ATTEST:
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APPROVED
F~sto
Cit
AS
TO FORM:
Sosa
ttorney
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By
Ra Ro riguez
Asst. City Attorney
CITY OF LAREDO
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. City of Laredo's Historic Preservation Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....... 3
1.1 Creation of Local HiStoric Districts
1.2 Comprehensive Urban Design Concept
1.3 Importance of Preservation In Downtown Revitalization
1.4 Public History and Heritage Education
1.5 Purpose of Historic Preservation Plan
2. The Urbanization of Laredo: A Historical Analysis . . .............. .. ...... . .. . ... . . . . 6
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2.1 The Spanish Settlement Plan
2.2 Lare4o's Plazas
2.3 Early Road System
2.4 Republic of the Rio Grande
2.5 Fort Mcintosh
2.6 Webb County Courthouses
2.7 Railroads Spur Population Growth
2.8 The Mercado
2.9 Los Barrios Antiguos
2.10 Downtown Laredo in the Eany Twentieth Century
2.11 The Automobile Era and Laredo's Suburban Additions
2.13 San Bernardo Avenue and the Tourist Courts
2.14 Bibliography
3. Historic Preservation Plan Goals and Objectives . .. . .... . .. . ....... . ....... . ....... 33
3.1 Goals and Objectives
3.2 Action Plan
4. Local Historic Districts . ... . . . . . ..................... . .. . .. . ..... . ............. 40
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
San Agustin
Old Mercado
St. Peter's
Map of Local Historic Districts
5. Cultural Resource Surveys . ... . . . . . . . . . . . . ........ . ... . ........ . ...... . ....... 44
5.1 1981 Texas Historical Commission Survey
5.2 1995 Historic Resource Mapping of Downtown Properties (map)
6. Proposed Adjustments to Local Historic District Boundaries (map) . . . .... . ..... . ....... 45
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7. Proposed Local Historic Districts . .. ... . .. . ................. . ... . ...... . ........ .46
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4
El Cuatro Local Historic District {map)
Ft. Mcintosh Local Historic District (map)
El Azteca Local Historic District (map)
Old Heights Local Historic District (map}
8. Proposed Neighborhood ConseNation District ................................ . ... . 48
8.1 Conservation District - Purpose
8.2 Conservation District 8oundaries (map)
9. Locally Significant Historic Landmark Designations .. .. .. . .... . .......... . .... . ..... 50
9.1 Criteria and Current Designations
9.2 Proposed Priority Designations
9.3 Proposed Notable Designations
9.4 Endangered Historic Properties list
10. Urban Design Standards . ....... . ... . . . ... . . . ........... . .................... 66
10.1 Design Review Standards for Local Historic Districts
10.2 Supplemental Design Review Standards for Local Historic Districts
10.31n-fill Development Standards
10.4 Demolition Review Standards
11. Archaeological Resources .. . .. . ........ ... ................ . . . .. ... .. .. ...... 77
11.1 Summary of Archaeological SuNey and Testing
11.2 Archaeological Potential and Recommendations
11.3 Historic Cemeteries
Appendices
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2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Historic District Specific Use Overlay District Ordinance
Tax Exemption for Certified Historic Rehabilitation Projects Ordinance
Funding Sources for Historic Rehabilitation
National and State Historic Site Designations
Historic Themes of laredo
Census of the Population, Laredo, Texas
Public Involvement Process & Historic District/Landmark Board Members
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1. City of Laredo's Historic Preservation Program
1.1 Creation of Local Historic Districts
The City of Laredo's commitment to Historic Preservation began in 1974 with the designation
of the local historic district of "Villa de San Agustin." To implement the historic zoning, a citizen's
review board was established to provide for review of projects undertaken in the local district
This action was initiated in response to the designation of the historic heart of the city as a
National Historic District in 1973. In 1981, the historic ordinance was amended to include the
Urban Development Action Grant for downtown storefront revitalization. This project established
local design standards for the historic Mercado area and provided for the restoration of the former
City Hall and Mercado (1883-1884) for use by local businesses. In 1985, two additional districts
were designated: the Mercado and Sl Peter's nieghborhood. The ordinance was strengthened
with the addition of penalties for violations, and provisions were made for an Architectural Review
Board to oversee standards for restoration and signage in all local districts.
In 1993, an amendment to the City's historic ordinance provided for specific criteria for the
establishment of historic landmark designation. Most recently, in 1994 and 1995, the City's
historic ordinance was amended to comply with national and state historic preservation standards.
This included the adoption of the Secretary of the Interior's Standard's for Historic Rehabilitation,
the establishment of criteria for the designation of local historic districts, a historic properties
inventory, professional prerequisites for Historic District/landmark Board members and the
creation of the position of Historic Preservation Officer. The momentum has continued with the
passage of an ordinance providing for ad valorem tax abatement for historic rehabilitation in May
1, 1995.
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1.2 Comprehensive Urban Design Concept
The Historic Preservation Plan conforms to the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan of
Laredo. Adopted in 1991, the Comprehensive Plan of Laredo provided for two implementation
strategies relating to historic preservation under the goal "to integrate public and private
development into a Comprehensive Urban Design Concept." LU3.2-1 states "Stricter design
standards should apply in historic areas than are applied generally in the city." The second
strategy, LU3.2-2, states "Where appropriate, historic districts should be created and protected
through historic district zoning." The Comprehensive Plan provides analyses of basic data and
policies toward growth, development, and the provision of public facilities and services.
1.3 Importance of Preservation in Downtown Revitalization
The benefits of historic preservation have been solidly documented, especially with regard to
economic and social sectors. Preservation contributes to revitalization of commercial districts and
older neighborhoods. It creates an area that is visually more attractive to the establishment of
new businesses and upscale tourism. Old buildings respect human scale in design and are
pedestrian friendly. The historic streetscape encourages shoppers to make connections between
destinations and supports longer periods of visitation. The visual improvements of signs can
reduce the cost of signage, eliminating the need for expensive visual competition. Other
economic benefits are the creation of construction jobs, the opening of new businesses and
increased sales. Preservation is an active instrument for sustainable economic growth. Historic
preservation is sound fiscal policy. It makes use of what already exists - buildings, materials,
infrastructure. and established communities. As we invest in maintaining our streets -our
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buildings are of equal importance. Preservation is a form of protecting the community's
investment already made by taxpayers.
Heritage tourism is essential to the diversification of the downtown economy. According to the
Texas Department of Commerce, tourism is the second largest industry in the State. The San
Agustin Plaza and the Old City HalV Mercado area are important resources which should be
capitalized for the generation of tourist activities in Laredo's downtown. Recognizing the
importance of historic preservation in this equation, the City contributed $100,000 of hoteVmotel
tax revenues towards the restoration of the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum in 1994. The Old
City Hall and Mercado, a City property, has become the home of the laredo Center for the Arts
which sponsors numerous art exhibits and performances throughout the year. In 1995, the City's
Convention and VISitor's Bureau relocated to the Mercado Historic District to provide the visiting
public better access to tourist information and promote tourist related activities in Laredo's historic
downtown. Most recently, the City has endorsed the Laredo Center for the Arts efforts in the
restoration of the Plaza Theatre for performing artists. The identification of themes which
highlight historically significant people, places, and events is an additional strategy to enhance
tourism and revitalization in relation to promotion and product development
The creation of a Neighborhood Conservation District will strengthen revitalization efforts
through the establishment of demolition review and design standards for in-fill development
Threats to the revitalization of downtown commercial and residential properties include
vandalism, arson, inappropriate repairs, non-compatible in-fill development, benign neglect and
demolition. It is important to note that seventy-five percent of the historic buildings in the United
States that have been demolished were done so to create surface parking. Currently the City of
laredo has implemented strategies to address the availability of downtown parking. The El Metro
Transit Center will provide 450 additional parking spaces, providing a viable solution to downtown
parking. Zoning regulations in which businesses in the central business district are exempt from
off-street parking requirements and the development of mass transportation alternatives such as
the restoration of trolley systems or the implementation of downtown bus routes deter the wanton
destruction of historic buildings for surface parking. Design standards, demolition review
standards, increased police protection, nuisance abatement, and crime prevention through
environmental design are vital to downtown preservation and revitalization.
The majority of historic preservation is funded by private, not public, capital. Hence incentives
to encourage private investment are central to preservation programs. On the national level, the
National Tax Credit for Certified Historic Preservation Projects provides for a 20% credit on
income tax on capital improvements associated with historic commercial properties. A National
Tax Credit for residential properties is currently under consideration. Federal grants to Certified
local Governments fund historic surveys, feasibility studies, and other activities essential to
preservation planning which ultimately benefit the private sector. The State of Texas offers a sales
tax exemption on labor costs associated with Certified Historic Preservation Projects. local
government tax abatements and conservation easements provide additional incentives. The City
of laredo's tax exemption for Certified Historic Rehabilitation Program provides abatements for
both residential and commercial historic properties. Consideration should be given to the
creation of a low interest loan or grant program for facade rehabilitation to encourage additional
private sector investment in downtown revitalization. Additionally, participation in the national
Urban Main Street program would provide technical assistance for commercial rehabilitation.
Finally historic preservation provides a community with a cultural identity and a sense of place.
Preservation supports community stability and individual responsibility, preventing further
deterioration of older neighborhoods. When a neighborhood's future is uncertain, property values
tend to fall. Because a single property's value is determined largely by property values throughout
the neighborhood, any one property owner may hesitate to improve his property unless he knows
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that others will do likewise. The designation of historic and conservation districts clarifies the
continued interest in the neighborhood and provides incentives to rehabilitate older housing stock.
The City of Laredo's housing rehabilitation program is crucial to this effort and should be
expanded to include rental residential properties. Another successful rehabilitation program has
been established by the Azteca Economic Development and Historic Preservation Corporation.
Laredo's only neighborhood based preservation group, the Azteca Economic Development and
Historic Preservation Corporation was founded in 1982 to foster neighborhood revitalization in the
Azteca neighborhood, providing rental assistance, small rehabilitation grants for homeowners, and
utility assistance. The more sensible solution of rehabilitating older housing stock prevents the
piecemeal demolition of neighborhoods, displacement of population and the destruction of the
barrio social networks that form the socioeconomic fabric of Laredo.
1A Public History and Heritage Education
Heritage educational programs can instill a sense of civic pride in the contributions of Laredo's
industrious ancestors to the built environment Three community organizations contribute to the
promotion of heritage education in Laredo. The Laredo Historical Society was founded in 1955 to
promote the preservation of Laredo history. Shortly thereafter, the laredo Historical Society
began the operation of the Republic of the Rio Grande Museum on 1005 Zaragoza St In 1980,
the Society became the Webb County Heritage Foundation, an organization devoted to the
preservation of Laredo and Webb County history. The Heritage Foundation restored the Republic
of the Rio Grande Museum building in 1994, and operates educational programs including a
restoration library, tours of the historic district, and school outreach activities.
Another organization, the Webb County Historical Commission serves as an arm of Webb
County to preserve, protect. and promote history within the county. The WCHC makes
recommendations for historical markers, conducts a youth essay contest and supports the
programs of the Texas Historical Commission.
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The Webb County Archaeological Society was formed in 1995 to support the scientific
investigation of archaeological resources in Webb County. Projects of the WCAS include the
survey of historic cemeteries in Webb County and the promotion of Texas Archaeological
Awareness Week.
Established in 1990, Los Caminos Del Rio Heritage Project (CRHP) promotes the development
of the international river corridor between Brownsville/Matamoras and Laredo/Nuevo Laredo to
enhance the existing visitor experience and contribute to the economic development of the area.
A bi-national nonprofit organization which serves as the regional grassroots advocate, CRHP
works directly with the National Parks Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in
program planning. The P.roject has invested $6 million in private and state funds in the region's
historic resources, and a solid program could channel more funding to Laredo, especially in light
of the pending legislation on the U.S. Senate floor to declare Laredo and the valley as a National
Heritage Area. Local Government support of these organizations for educational activities,
workshops, exhibits, programs, and the management of historical collections promotes public
awareness and recognition of the benefits of historic preservation.
1.5 Purpose of Historic Preservation Plan
Creating an agenda for future preservation activities, the City of Laredo's Plan for Historic
Preservation will serve a variety of purposes. The Plan will function as a preservation guide and
policy statement on proposed and adopted preservation strategies. Additionally, the Plan will
serve as a public forum for discussion of the issues, a tool for the evaluation of existing
preservation efforts though measurable goals and objectives and a springboard for the
development of new goals in response to local, state and national concerns.
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URBANIZATION OF LAREDO
FROM 1767 TO 1955
Urbanization Years
0
1767-1840
[I]
1885-1900
~
1840-1850
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1900-19.35
II
1850- 1880
D
1935-1955
R
1880-1885
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2. The Urbanization of Laredo: A Historical Analysis
The bi-cultural development of laredo, from a small Spanish settlement to a bustling
metropolitan city, is evident in its architectural, socio-eultural. and religious expressions. The
Spanish-Mexican architectural tradition is, indeed, a hallmark of the City. Over time, a syncretism
of the traditional Spanish-Mexican cultural landscape with American stylistic influences produced
an urban pattern and architectural style unique to the United States-Mexico border region. late
VICtOrian and Classical Revival architectural features were combined with Spanish-Mexican
features, creating a bi-cultural architectural expression. In response to the assimilation of popular
United States architectural traditions, the Spanish Colonial style of architecture made a
resurgence from the 1920s through the 1940s, reflecting a desire by the public to return to the
more traditional Spanish-Mexican style. Most recently, the "Southwestern" tradition, a modem
style characterized by Spanish-Mexican influences, continues in popularity.
Central to the urbanization of laredo was the development of a grid pattern based on the
Spanish plaza settlement system. Due to the elaboration of the Spanish plaza pattern during the
city's 19th century expansion, laredo has emerged as the only South Texas city with more than
two plazas. Another element which strongly influenced the city's evolution was the establishment
of barrios, or enclaves. Interestingly, the Spanish tradition also played a role in neighborhood
development as names of two early barrios were derived from Spanish landmarks - "Charcon"
and "Las Lomas Altas." The sociological concept of barrio, or neighborhood, has endured for over
100 years and continues to serve as a symbol of community identity and cohesiveness.
2.1 The Spanish Settlement Plan
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laredo, a colonial city of New Spain founded in 1755, was named for a town in Santander,
located on the north coast of Spain. Nuevo Santander, one of the last northern provinces of New
Spain, was established by the Spaniard Jose de Escand6n as part of an expansion program to
colonize northern Mexico. Spanish colonization efforts were prompted by the threat of French and
English encroachment into northern Mexico and by the search for mineral and salt deposits.
Appointed governor, Escand6n was responsible for the settlement along the Rio Grande:
Camargo (1749), Reynosa (1749), Dolores (1750), Revilla (1750), Mier (1752), and laredo
(175_
5).
laredo was founded on May 15, 1755, when Captain Tomlls Sanchez, with three families. was
granted permission to settle 15 leagues of land near an Indian ford on the Rio Grande. Sanchez
lived across the river from Dolores, a large ranching settlement, and journeyed to Revilla to
petition for the new villa. Operated as a family rancho, the Sanchez estate ran cattle, sheep,
goats, horses, mules, and oxen.
Captain Tomas Sanchez's deposition during an inspection of the town in 1757 by nenda de
Cuervo reveals the strategic location of his rancho: "That this place was on a highway and was
discovered some nine·years (actually 1745) before the deponent formed said settlement that its
crossing was discovered by one named Jacinto de Le6n; whence has clung to it the name of El
Paso de Jacinto; that it is up stream from this settlement something like a quarter of a league, and
continues passable up to the present; and that there was no rancho in this vicinity ...." The
original rancho was situated between today's Zacate and Chacon Creeks. Agustin l6pez de Ia
Camara Alta in the 1757 Inspection report described the settlemenfs location: "It is situated on
the margin of the Rio Grande, or Bravo, on the North Bank, in a plain two leagues in extent.
reaching to the hills of Sta. Barbara, which meet it with two small arroyos, of which the upper to
the southwest, is called Arroyo de Lomas Altas, and that on the east side, Arroyo de Charcon.....
This settlement is important, and it is expedient that it increase in size, for the sake of the
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Nuevo Santander, 1792
Mexico National Archives
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Maps of Rancho de Dolores and the Pueblo de Laredo
Tienda de Cue.rvo Report, 1757
(note - orientation of plan is west-east)
British Library
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Crossing from the interior Provinces of Texas." From these early Spanish landmarks we derive
two of our present place names: The Heights Neighborhood and Chacon Creek. Today's
"chacon" was derived from "charcon" which translates as a muddy pool.
In 1767, during the Visita General by Juan Fernando de Palacios, the governor of Sierra
Gorda, New Spain officially designated the settlement as a villa and christened it San Agustin de
Laredo, after a town in Escandon's native Santander, Spain. A plaza mayor or central plaza was
laid out, and porciones or Spanish land grants were issued to heads of households. The
rectangular shaped plaza was 100 varas in length and 80 varas in width. (One vara equals 33.33
inches.) Plots of land facing the plaza on the east and west were surveyed for a church, a
captain's house, and a jail. Town lots were assigned for public and private buildings. Six leagues
of land surrounding the villa were designated as ejidos, or common pastures. An additional six
leagues were assigned to the villa on land south of the river. Eighty-nine porciones, or land grants,
were issued to families of merit along the river banks to the original settlers, with two porciones
assigned to Tomas Sanchez. The porciones measured 1000 varas in width and 30,000 varas in
depth. These porciones were issued on the condition that the recipients would cultivate and
improve the property. Families residing on the south side of the river also received porciones
based on merit. Three leagues of vacant land were reserved for the establishment of an Indian
village (Visita General, 1767).
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Based on the Renaissance ideals of symmetry, streets were laid out 10 varas in width "so that
people may go in and out on horseback with ease and without danger." Four town lots measuring
2.0 x 40 varas were located around the plaza. The depth of the town lot was laid out "for the
greater comfort of the owners, and in order that they may build enclos~res and patios in which
they may keep their cattle and daily horses." The other lots "adjoined and continued from those of
the plaza, with the same front and depth." Upon receiving town lots, settlers were obligated to
build a house (Visita General, 1767).
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The 1789 Census report provided an early description of the villa: "This town has its Church
and a sacristy built of stone recently constructed, and a minister Senor Bachiller Priest and Vicar,
Don Juan Josef de Ia Garza... This town is composed of 48 citizens with arms, that is to say,
muskets, and some shields, 4 stone houses, 2 adobe houses, 19 jacales (huts) fenCed with stone,
18 fenced with adobe, 5 fenced with stakes and 36 fenced with bulrushes, which altogether
consist of 85 dwellings, not counting those in which the soldiers live" (laredo Archives). In the
1790s and early 1800s, two plans were presented to the stockade the villa for protection against
the Indians; however it is uncertain if these stockades were constructed (Adan Benavides, 1989).
On February 2, 1828, Jose Maria Sanchez y Tapia, the draftsman for General Manuel de Mier
y Teran's boundary survey, described the streets of Laredo in his journal: ''The streets are straight
and long; all the buildings are covered with grass; and the houses have no conveniences. A
desolate air envelops the entire city, and there is not a single tree to gladden the eye as the
vegetation of this arid land consists of small mesquites and huisache with cactus scattered here
and there." The survey party also traveled north on the road to a place north of the city called "EI
Chacon" situated at " the banks of a small pond formed by rain water but which dries up at times."
On January 29, 1848, the City was incorporated under Texas law. This original charter
granted the city authority to make and pass by-laws and ordinances; assess and collect taxes;
establish ferries, build levees, wharves, and landings; establish free schools; erect public
buildings; pave streets; organize a city guard; impose and collect fines; and sell vacant porciones
with the proceeds to be applied to erect a school. In 1850, the citizens were dissatisfied with the
one square mile city boundary set in 1848, and the city boundaries were changed to the original
Spanish boundaries of four square leagues. Although a map of the city at the time of its
incorporation has not been located, a military map dating 1853, just five years after the charter,
illustrated the city plan which consisted of 20 blocks. In 1860, the state Legislature authorized the
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1876 Survey of the San Agustin Plaza Area
Hamilton Peterson, City Surveyor
Webb County, Book 0, Volume 6, p. 344
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City to sell the vacant porciones granted by the Royal Charter of 1767 and to convey to the
purchasers titles in fee simple (Hamilton).
2.2 Laredo's Plazas
The plaza is a distinctive cultural feature in Hispanic America. The syncretism of the Spanish
and MesoAmerican traditions, the plaza became a prominent feature in the settlement plan of
South Texas. Two types of plazas are found in Hispanic America: 1) the classical plaza which
included the church and governmental buildings and 2) the market plaza. It is probable that
Laredo is the only South Texas town north of the Rio Grande with more than two plazas (Arreola,
1992).
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The ear1iest plazas were open and Jacked ornamentation. These were generally referred to as
the Plaza de Armas (Arreola). A cabinet card of San AgusUn Plaza dating to the late 1870s
shows a barren plaza void of greenery. It was not until the late 19th century that the garden
plaZa, landscaped with lawns, trees, walkway, benches, and a kiosk, developed. This concept
was popularized during the French occupation of Mexico. In the late 1800s, plazas were used for
ferias, pabiotic ceremonies and musical ensembles. Tum of the century postcards of San Agustin
and Jarvis Plaza show richly landscaped plazas based on the French Renaissance style.
The orientation of the 1787 church and the 1830s section of Bartotom~ Garcia home suggests
the original location of the plaza as directly to the southeast of today's San Agustin Plaza. The
original street names were Calle Real, Calle San Francisco, Calle San JosA, Calle del Garcia, and
Calle del Barrilero (1845 Voter's Census). Today's plaza was probably laid out circa 1860.
(1870s cabinet card of San Agustin Church; 1876 survey). Additionally, shortly after the American
Civil War, the streets were renamed by Mayor Samuel Jarvis, many named alternately for
Mexican and American heroes, others for his daughters (Thompson, 1986).
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The original Spanish plaza was used to corral cattle during early round-ups for branding and
for public gatherings such as readings of decrees (Jackson, 1986). In 1790, a band of over 100
lipan Apaches raided Laredo, stole munitions that had been stored in the church, and killed the
military guard." The Apaches danced a war dance for about an hour before departing with all the
horses they found (Garcia).
One of the largest gunfights in the history of the American West took place at San Agustin
Plaza in 1886. Fighting broke out between two political factions, the Botas and the Guaraches, the
day following a city election. Over 100 combatants participated in the street brawl, and an
estimated 30 persons were killed (Thompson, 1991).
Originally called "Church" Plaza in 1885, San Agustin Plaza was bounded by Flores and San
Agustin Avenues, and Zaragoza and Grant Streets. It was the main center for the city during the
mid to late nineteenth century, and many of the stone houses built by the original families still
remain. In 1902, the name was changed to Martin Plaza, and most recently in 1990 the plaza
was given its original name. In 1934, a Classical Revival style bandstand and concrete benches
were installed on the plaza. Farias and Leyendecker were architects for the project and J.
Esparza and Son were contractors. A plaque on the bandstand honors Porfirio Benavides who
donated funds for plaza improvements.
From the 1880s to 1900, additional plazas were developed (Sanborn Fire Insurance Co.):
1) "Market Plaza" (1885) bounded by Flores and San Agustin Avenues, and Lincoln and Hidalgo
Streets.
2) "Public Square" (1885; Juarez Plaza 1900s, Bruni Plaza, 1931) bounded by San Agustin and
San Bernardo Avenues, and Washington and Moctezuma Streets; this plaza was referred to as
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Postcard of Jarvis Plaza, circa 1930
Laredo Public Library Collection
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Juarez Plaza due to the proximity of the plaza to the Hijos de Juarez building at 1120 San Agustin.
On Sept. 15, 1931, the City of Laredo named the plaza for A.M. Bruni, an important political figure
who had willed funds for the plaza's upkeep. Shortly thereafter, Spanish Colonial Revival style
arches, a ceramic tile fountain and hemisphere were added to the plaza.
3) "Plaza" (1885; Juarez Plaza, circa 1900; Jarvis Plaza, circa 1931) bounded by Salinas and
Juarez Streets; and Matamoros and Farragut Streets. Named for Samuel Jarvis who served as
Laredo's Mayor from 1868-1872. The land for the plaza was donated by Jarvis. A Late Victorian
bandstand remains on the plaza.
4) "School Plaza" (1900; Central School Plaza, 1931) bounded by Farragut and Matamoros
streets, and Santa Ursula and San Oario Avenues. The name of the plaza was "Central School
Plaza" on the 1931 Sanborn Map. According to community tradition this plaza also was referred
to as Plaza de Ia Noria. It was a regular stop for teamsters to water their horses at the well
located there. This plaza, situated across from the Escuela Amarilla, was used recreationally by
the children. In 1921, the Rotary Club constructed a playground on the plaza, which was at that
time referred to as Independence Plaza. The plaza is currently the park in the median of
Interstate 35.
5) St. Peter's Square was designated a "park" on the early maps. Situated across from St. Peter's
school, it was also used for a playground by the school children. Early 20th century photographs
document a May Day celebration at St Peter's Plaza in which a May Pole was erected for the
spring rite.
6} A sixth plaza which remained unnamed was located in front of the Texas-Mexican Depot. This
plaza was used by visiting carnivals and theatrical groups.
In 1888, an ordinance "dedicating and setting apart certain blocks of land in the Eastern and
Western Divisions for public cemeteries, parks and plazas, and for school purposes" was
approved. The 1890 City Map of Laredo showed a town plan with 23 plazas. In addition to the
above mentioned plazas, three additional were planned south of Moctezuma, seven north of
Moctezuma, seven east of Zacate creek, and 2 south of Chacon creek. Many of these were
planned adjacent to school sites. The map also designated a large area of about 60 acres located
between Garden and Park Streets and San Bernardo and Santa Maria Avenues as a park. This
park was never developed, and later the land was utilized for the site of Raymond and Tirza
·Martin High School.
2.3 Early Road System
The early Spanish roads followed routes previously established by indigenous populations.
Early Spanish records indicate that Laredo was located strategically near the Paso de Jacinto,
also known as Paso de los Indios, an Indian pass on the Rio Grande. The 1757 Spanish
inspection described the location of the pass as: "situated on the south side three leagues within
the division line placed between this new colony (Dolores) and the Province of Coahuila running to
the north to that place." The Paso de Jacinto served as the crossing point of the road to Presidio
de La Bahia, and it was noted that this was a good place to establish a ferry.
Two early roads were identified in the Inspection of Laredo. One led north to San Antonio de
Bexar and the other southward to Santiago de Ia Monclova, the capital of Coahuila. The Old San
Antonio-Laredo road, the main route north, was traveled by Fray Gaspar Jose de Solis on August
21, 1768, on an inspection of the Spanish Texas Missions. This route provided the necessary
abundance of water and grass for travel across this arid region, and the first Texas cattle drives
took place along the San Antonio-Laredo road to Saltillo in the 18th century (McGraw). Later, the
road was traveled in 1828 by the Mier y Teran expedition in surveying the northern boundary of
Mexico.
9
During the 1840s, the Laredo road became the main economic and military route to the south,
replacing the old Presidio Road (McGraw). A map entitled "Sketch of the grounds leased by the
United States from the City of laredo in 1853" revealed three roads leading from Laredo: a road
taking a northerly course to Eagle Pass. a road heading east to Ringgold Barracks, and a road to
San Antonio and Fort Ewell which took a northeasterly direction crossing Zacate Arroyo near its
head.
The U.S. military used these ancient roads to transport supplies and.patrol the country. Before
and after the Civil War the San Antonio-laredo road was the main military supply route from San
Antonio to Forts Ewell (1852-54) at the Nueces River, and Mcintosh at Laredo, as well as the
trade route for early settlers. Although abandoned after ranches were fenced and a railroad from
San Antonio to Laredo was built in 1881, the road is still visible on the open range. Interstate 35
closely parallels the original road today. (Official RTL, McMullen County)
2.4 Republic of the Rio Grande
On January 7, 1840, the Republic of the Rio Grande was created by a constitutional
convention, and attempted to unite Tamaulipas, Nuevo le6n and parts of South Texas.
Discontented with the Mexican Centralist govemmenrs policies, some Laredoans joined in the
fight and Laredo became the capital of the new republic. After several skirmishes with the
Mexican amiy, the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande came to an end, enduring only 283
days. Although the Republic of Texas, which had won its independence from Mexico in 1836,
attempted claim to Laredo, its citizens continued to remain loyal to Mexico after the defeat of the
Republic of the Rio Grande. The Mexican vernacular building at 1005 Zaragoza St. served as the
capitol of the Republic of the Rio Grande, according to community tradition.
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In 1845, the annexation of Texas by the United States led to the declaration of war against
Mexico. Shortly after the fall of Mexico, the Rio Grande was declared the boundary between the
United States and Mexico. Under the 1848 Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, laredo officially
became part of Texas. Mexicans who wanted to retain their citizenship moved across the river.
This area previously settled as part of laredo officially became the town of Nuevo laredo in 1848.
2.5 Fort Mcintosh
Originally known as Camp Crawford, a United States military fort was established in 1849 on
the east bank of the Rio Grande just below the old Indian crossing called Paso de Los Indios.
One of a line of U.S. forts along the Rio Grande, the fort was renamed for Colonel James S.
Mcintosh, who perished in the Mexican War at the battle of Molino del Rey. The fort provided
protection from the Comanches and Lipan Apaches and escorted supplies and mail across the
brush country. Briefly abandoned during the Civil War, it was reoccupied later in 1865 by the
62nd Colored Infantry (known as the Buffalo soldiers), who remained at the fort unti11880. The
fort expanded from 1875 to 1898 when several buildings were built to add to the hospital,
guardhouse, storehouse, and bakery. These included the addition of barracks, a new hospital,
guardhouse, granary, boiler house, pump house. commissary storehouse, bath house,
noncommissioned quarters, and officers quarters. In March 1911. Fort Mcintosh played a critical
role in aviation history when a Wright brothers biplane made a test flight from laredo to Fort
Duncan at Eagle Pass. The fort continued to operate until 1947, upon the development of Laredo
Air Base (Williams & Landon, 1974; San Antonio Express article).
The original fort was a star-shaped earthen fort, measuring approximately 100 by 100 feet. A
stone magazine with descending steps, arched roof overlaid with earth, and iron doors, was built
in the southeast part of the fort. During the 1930s, the WPA rebuilt the deteriorated earthen walls,
restored the fort's buildings, and built a sandstone wall around the entire fort (Williams & Landon).
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Sketch of the grounds leased by the United States
from the City of Laredo in 1853
National Archives
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Historic structures on the fort include the post hospital built of brick in 1885 at the main
entrance. Non-commissioned staff quarters, built in the 1890s, took the form of one-story frame
and brick houses on a rectangular or ell-shaped plan. The quartermaster's storehouse,
constructed of large rubble stone with stuccoed walls. is probably the oldest remaining building at
the fort. Adjacent to the storehouse is the commissary, built in 1890. To the south of these
structures is a row of two and a half story stuccoed, brick and stone houses rich in Victorian detail
which served as officers' quarters. South of the officers' quarters was the parade ground, where
one barracks building for enlisted men remains, constructed in 1880. To the east of the parade
ground is the post chapel, guard house, bakery, stables, carriage house, and Commander's
House. In 1975, Fort Mcintosh was designated a National Register Historic District and a National
Archaeological landmark (Williams & Landon).
2.6 Webb County Courthouses
In 1848, Laredo became the seat of government for Webb County, named for James Webb,
who was secretary of the Treasury of the Republic of Texas. Fort Mcintosh was established by
the United States Army in 1849, protecting the citizenry from the Indians and establishing law and
order along the border. Meetings of the county court were held at the Mexican era casa
consistorial on 1009 Zaragoza street across from San Agustrn Plaza. The casa consistorial was a
two-story adobe and rock structure with barred windows, four rooms, and an outside stair case.
The old jail was located behind the casa consistorial (Cook).
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The first modem courthouse, a two story brick Victorian structure, was completed in 1882 at a
cost of $40,000. In 1906, it was destroyed by fire. A second court house was built in 1909 on
1000 Houston St by noted Texas architect Alfred Giles to replace the former building. Born in
London, Giles became known for his public and private buildings in both central Texas and
northern Mexico. This Mediterranean Eclectic style edifice exhibits graceful archways, arched
lamps and the southern entrance, and the lion's head guarding the roof. The building's mansard
roof was considered quite modem for that period. In 1980, the Webb County Courthouse was
listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the county government currently is restoring
this magnificent structure to its original grandeur.
In 1929, the Courthouse moved across the street to the newly remodeled Courthouse Annex at
1001 Houston. This Beaux Arts building was erected in 1916 and served as the latin American
Club, an exclusive club where laredo gentlemen met to bowl, shoot billiards, and play chess or
dominos. Bailes grandes were held on the second floor. Beginning in 1929, the building housed
the 11 Oth District Court.
A 1929 magazine article described the remodeling of the new Courthouse Annex:
"On the first floor District Judge John A. Valls has his office to the north
of the main entrance on Houston Street, facing the old court house.
Across the hallway, from Judge Valls is the office of the County Assessor.
B.J. Leyendecker, and to the rear of his office, across a transverse hallway,
is the office of the County Tax Collector Amadie Ligarde. On the other side
of the main hallway is the office of the County Agent.
"On the second floor the spacious and well lighted ballroom has been
converted into perhaps one of the finest courtrooms in the state.
Ligh~ed by large casement windows on the north, east, and south, and
ventilated as few public places of assemblage can be, with a hard maple
floor, and comfortable seating arrangements, it is admirably equipped for
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a good sized audience, while the space for the bench and bar is larger
than is usually found, even in a larger city.
"The work was done under the supervision of County Judge Penn, the
commissioners, and county auditor M.S. Ryan, a skilled architect who
drew plans for the transformation of the former club building into a modem
attractive Courthouse."
2.7 Railroads Spur Population Growth
1881 marked the transformation of laredo from a villa to a booming "gateway" city with the
coming of the railroads. laredo became a major thoroughfare for trade between the United
States and Mexico, and this was augmented by the Zona Ubra, or free trade zone established
between laredo and Nuevo laredo. The city's population tripled from 1880 to 1890 as
immigrants from Germany, France, Ireland, Italy, Scandinavia, and all parts of the United States
moved to laredo seeking employment and business opportunities. In 1882, the first brick two
story building was constructed -the Webb County Courthouse. In 1883-1884, a new city hall,
incorporating a market house and ·performing arts theater, was constructed just to the north of the
San Agustin Plaza to accommodate the growing city. ln 1889, this progressive city boasted the
first electric street car west of the Mississippi and a steel bridge for connecting Laredo to Nuevo
laredo, Mexico (Tarver, 1888).
In 1889, the laredo Bridge Company secured a franchise from the city and concessions from
both U.S. and Mexico, and a steel bridge was built which opened the door to trade. Laredo truly
became an international trade center, for most of the shipments from the United States to Mexico
passed through laredo in the 1880s. In 1921, the bridge was destroyed by fire and a reinforced
concrete bridge was erected in 1922. A devastating flood in 1954 swept the railroad bridge into
the international bridge, causing the bridge to be rebuilt a second time.
Other improvements during the late 19th century included the paving of the streets with
macadam, or compacted stone, at a cost of about $40,000 (Tarver). A water works also was
constructed in the 1880s. Prior to the construction of the water works, residents relied on wells
and cisterns. Water was also hauled from the river by mule driven carts which constantly
ascended the st~ep banks.
The International and Great Northern Railway and the Texas Mexican Railway linked laredo to
northern states and the port of Corpus Christi. Connecting San Antonio to Laredo, the IGN
Railway was established in 1881. A freight and passenger depot along with round and coach
houses were constructed that year to the west of the city. The Texas Mexican Railway depot,
constructed circa 1889, was a center of commerce at the northern limits of the city. Coming from
Corpus Christi, the Texas Mexican narrow gauge spanned 153 miles to laredo.
Established in 1882, the Rio Grande and Eagle Pass Railway connected laredo to the coal
mines and operated as far as the Santo Tomas coal mines 29 miles to the northwest. The
rediscovery of this rich vein of bituminous coal, known since Spanish times, assured a supply of
fuel for the railroads. These coal deposits which run along the Rio Grande to Eagle Pass were
the largest in the United States. In 1887, the Mexican National Railway established passenger
service between Nuevo laredo and Mexico City. The railroads allowed laredo to become ''The
Gateway to Mexico" by positioning export and import trade as the most important commercial
enterprise.
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Plano de Los Dos Laredos, 1881
Colecci6n General, Tamaulipas
The 1881 "Plano de los Dos Laredos" published by E.R. Laroche showed the streets of Laredo
named up to Park Street and the northern boundary as Jefferson St. Zacate Creek was the
eastern boundary of the city. This map, which illustrated the planned city blocks for Nuevo
Laredo, was probably the first city plan for both cities. The City of Laredo's land grant was
recognized by the state of Texas by a patent dated July 18, 1884 granting 47,392,967 square
varas to the City. Due to this grant, citizens paid little or no taxes, for the city's operating funds
were derived from the sale of blocks and lots of land (Hamilton). On March 6, 1890, a petition for
a complete survey of the city made by Cayetano de Ia Garza and Samuel Bratton was approved
by City Council (City Minute Book). The Map of Laredo, dated February 6, 1890, charted the
expansion of the city based on the plaza plan.
An 1881 Laredo Times article described the plans for the town's expansion:
"laredo is a Mexican town. The streets, although laid out at right
angles, are narrow, only ten varas (28 feet) in width, and are
distinguished by an absence of sidewalk, except for the Plaza and
a few other localities. The houses, with some thirty or forty
exceptions, are one story in height, and built of stone, concrete or
adobe. A few of the modem houses lately erected are of brick and
stone, and two stories high."
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''The new addition north of the city is laid out with streets at right
angles and twenty varas (56 feet) in width. The lots number eight to
the block. In the old town they are 20 varas frontage by 40 in depth.
In the new town their size is increased to 25 varas - a very respectable
size. In the old town there are four plazas, of one block each; in the
new, nine blocks are reserved in different localities, and also one large
park of thirty blocks. about sixty acres, has been laid out Outside of
the present corporate limits, other blocks northeast and west have been
laid ou~ and sold by the city or donated to the railroads... tots in what
will soon be the business portion of the city can be purchased at from
one to two hundred dollars."
In response to the city's rapid growth, the city charter was amended in 1911 to grant additional
powers: the regulation of stockyards, slaughter houses, blacksmiths and liveries. foundries, and
breweries; telegraph and electric poles; saloons and billiard halls; and hack men and automobile
traffic. Other new powers included the creation of a fire department, erection of public buildings
including a market house, maintenance of parks, plazas, and cemeteries and "to provide for public
concerts in the city parks and plazas;" prohibit indecent theaters, houses of prostitution, and
vagrants; control animals and "prevent cruelty"; and "compel" laying of sidewalks.
A 1911 map of Laredo drawn by Sam T. Foster, Jr. and E.J. Foster, CE of Webb County
charted the growth of the city in the early 2oth century. Boundaries of the city were established on
the north at Farias and Franklin Streets, east at Smith Avenue, west to the Rio Grande. The
Western Division was defined as all streets west of San Francisco Avenue and Zacate Creek, and
the Eastern Division as all streets east Elevation notes on the map identified Cogley Hilt in the
Heights at 554 feet and the downtown elevation at 438 feet. A three mile radius from the
downtown core marked the city's outskirts.
2.8 The Mercado
During the 1880s, the city of Laredo began to expand northward from San Agustin Plaza. The
city grew northward along Flores Avenue, which became the business artery of the city. The
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City Hall and Market House
Laredo the Gateway, 1889
building of a new City Hall in 1883-1884 caused businesses, hotels, and restaurants to locate
north of the San Agustin Plaza area. The City Hall area was known as El Mercado as its rear
portion housed stalls for vendors who offered all types of produce, foodstuffs, and other articles
for sale. City Hall, built of brick and stucco, was planned for three functions: a city hall, a
performing arts theater, and a market hall. The structure was designed by W.Y. Tyndall, a
Galveston architect The eclectic style of architecture combined design elements taken from a
number of traditional architectural styles. In 1905, the tall beautiful belfry was destroyed by a
tornado spawned from a hurricane. In 1951, the City Hall was remodeled under the
administration of Mayor Hugh Cluck. Throughout the years, vanous city departments as well as
the public library were housed in the building. A 1981 Urban Development Acti!Jn Grant funded an
adaptive reuse of the Mercado. In 1993, the building became the home for the Laredo Center for
the Arts, which includes the offices of the Webb County Heritage Foundation, the Laredo Art
League and Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Several Mexican-style commercial buildings erected around the tum-of-the century were the
Jos6 Angel Ortiz Building at 1002 Hidalgo, constructed in 1904, and the Gonzalez/Trevino
Grocery at 517-519 San Agustin, constructed in 1875-1880, and the Trevino Wholesale Grocery
at 501 San Agustrn, constructed in 1914. These brick structures were characterized by flat roofs
with extended parapets, hood molds over arched windows, and dentiled cornices. A zaguan, or
arched carriage entrance is a prominent feature of the Ortiz building.
Other buildings adjacent to the Mercado were influenced by American trends in architecture.
The Werner building at 508 Flores and the Bridget Farrell building at 406 Flores featured
ornamental cast iron facades imported to Laredo from the industrial Middle West
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The Mercado District is characteristic of the two-part commercial block pattern which was a
common form typical of 19th century commercial districts. limited to structures of two to four
stories, this type is defined by a horizontal division into two distance zones. The single story lower
zone, at street level, indicates public spaces such as retail stores or offices. The upper zone
suggests more private spaces, including offices, hotel rooms, or a meeting hall. During the
Victorian period, facades were ornate with decorative cornices and hood molds. By the tum of the
century, a sense of order and unity prevailed. Some were extremely plain void of decorative
motifs (longstreet, 1985).
Further elaboration of the two-part commercial block pattern developed in the early 20th
century under the influence of European modernism, known as Art Deco and Modeme. The initial
phase of Art Deco, popular between the late 1920s and 1930s, was characterized by sculptured
rectilinear geometric forms to dramatize the building. These mostly vertical forms were combined
with abstract relief embellishing the wall surface. The second phase, introduced between the
1930s and 1940s, was a slick, streamlined look. These buildings emphasized the facades
horizontality with decorative banding, long stretches of windows, smooth surfaces, and rounded
comers (longstreet).
The Plaza Theater, constructed in 1946, is an outstanding example of Art Modeme
architecture, built by H. B. Zachry construction company. At its inauguration, the Plaza was the
most luxurious theater in town. The interior featured a large balcony with a beautiful canvas mural
painted by Laredo artist, Manuel Gutierrez. The theater was fully air conditioned and contained
2,400 feet of neon lighting. The Plaza is the only historic theater in Laredo which maintains its
historical integrity.
2.9 Los Barrios Antiguos
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Several barrios, or neighborhoods developed during the late nineteenth century near the city's
center: El Azteca, El Cuatro, El Tonto, St. Peter's, ~drillera, ~E!Y Redeemer, and~
GuadaluE._e. These neighborhoods are distinguished by 19th century Mexican architecture and
later the syncretism of Mexican and American styles in the early 20th century.
Traditional Mexican archi~ecture exhibits flat chipichil (concrete) roofs, shallow parapets,
canales, hewn wooden lintels and double doors, and decorative quoins and cornices.
Construction materials were sandstone, quarried near the mouth of Zacate Creek, and later brick
manufactured in Laredo. The floor plan was ell-shaped or rectangular with double doors opening
onto the street with a courtyard or quinta in back. Flat and elliptical arches were the characteristic
fenestration. Later the arches were emphasized with decorative hood molds. Flooring materials
were dirt, tongue and groove, brick or chipichil. These ethnic Mexican buildings were typically
oriented directly on the street, with no set back, and were at times connected or shared common
walls with neighboring structures. Another trait was the raised gable in combination with a
standing seam tin roof, typical of rancho architecture in South Texas and Northern Mexico
(Graham, 1992; Robinson, 1979).
The Late Victorian (1870-1915) influence brought an American asymmetrical floor plan with bay
windows, the front porch area, and an increased set back from the front property line to allow for
the establishment of a front yard for privacy. Decorative elements included gingerbread porch
trim, roof ornaments, gable trim of shingles and half-timbering, stained glass windows, eaves
brackets, and roof styles ranging from steeply pitched to mansard. Eastlake influence was
expressed through stylized flowers and geometric patterns on lintels and porch trim and
ornamental iron with medieval motifs on roof crests and balconies.
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At the tum-of-the-century, other styles became popular. Classical or Colonial Revival
(1870-1950) was characterized by a symmetrical facade, decorative door crowns and pediments,
sidelights, fanlights, and porticos to emphasize the front entrance, double hung windows, and
decorative cornices. Originating in California, the Craftsman or Bungalow Style (1890-1940)
consisted of small simplistic cottages, with broad front gables, dormer windows, and exposed
structural members. Cobblestones were laid in foundations and chimneys. When walls were
stuccoed, the roof was often of tiles. Prairie Style (1900-1920), after the Frank lloyd Wright
tradition, was characterized by its overall horizontal appearance featuring bands of casement
windows, long terraces and balconies, flanking wings, low pitched roofs with wide overhangs, and
darkly colored strips or bands on exterior walls. Spanish Colonial Revival (1900- present) homes
consisted of stucco covered brick walls painted white, verandahs, courtyards, and ceramic tiled
roofs. Italian Renaissance (1890-1930) homes featured stone construction, low pitched hip or flat
roofs with widely overhanging eaves supported by decorative brackets, ceramic tiled roof, round
arches incorporated into doors and first story windows, and the use of porticos or columned
recessed entryways.
Laredo's churches also reflected a variety of styles. San Agustin Church was built in the
Gothic Revival Style (1830-1880). Gothic elements included a steeply pitched roof, hood molding
over windows, doors and windows incorporating the Gothic arch, and the use of trefoils and
quatrefoils in the design. In contrast, Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and St. Joseph's Church
featured Spanish Colonial Revival style towers.
Other vernacular forms were associated with working class neighborhoods in Laredo. The
shotgun house was a wooden rectilinear structure with the front door and back door aligned. One
hypothesis suggests the name was derived from the ability to shoot a gun through the front door
and the bullet exiting out the back door. Another interesting hypothesis suggests the name was
derived from the Yoruba word To-gun, which means "house." It further states that the shotgun
house is an African-American house form which originated in West Africa, spread to Haiti, and
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Mexican Vernacular Architecture
Laredo the Gateway, 1889
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finally arrived in the United States through the port of New Orleans. Several variations of the
shotgun house include the double shotgun (two connected houses) and the camel back (a second
floor addition to the back of a shotgun house) (Nixon, 1988; Vlach, 1976). The other common
vernacular form is the box house with an attached or inset front porch. These houses generally
had hipped roofs and "saw tooth" porch trim. The majority of these board and batten houses were
concentrated in El Azteca, El Cuatro, La Ladrillera, Holy Redeemer, and La Guadalupe.
Across the United States, these vernacular homes were targeted for demolition in urban
renewal programs of the 1970s and 1980s which resulted in the displacement of the traditional
neighborhood and crime-infested public housing. Current planning philosophy provides for the
more sensitive approach of rehabilitating these structures. leaving the traditional neighborhood
intact
Small stores in laredo's barrios reflected the one-part commercial block, a commercial style
which originated in the early 19th century. These one-story buildings, were freestanding, simple
boxes with a decorative facade. A false front arrangement was especially common to small
wooden buildings. Although these buildings were freestanding, the false front visually linked the
commercial district This same form evolved through time, donning the attributes of the Victorian.
and later, Art Deco movements (longstreet).
2.9.1 El Azteca
The Azteca neighborhood is considered one of the oldest residential areas in laredo. lots
were deeded as early as the 1870s and 1880s. The earliest residents lived injacales (huts) near
Zacate Arroyo where they raised goats and worked their small dairy farms (ranchitos).
The Azteca barrio was an outgrowth from a settlement called El Ranchero which extended
from the Rio Grande north to lturbide St. El Ranchero was named for a popular molino. or food
store for grinding com. Later the barrio became known as El Azteca, named for Jhe Azteca
Theater which opened in 1922 on the 400 block of Lincoln St as the Teatro Nacional. It hosted
Mexican theatrical troupes and variety shows and later became the Azteca movie house in the
1930s. Another theater listed in the 1935 city directory was the lturbide Theater located on
313-315 lturbide. This theater showed motion pictures and advertised itself as the "Home of
Spanish Vaudeville."
El Azteca barrio ranks as a nationally significant neighborhood due to its historical integrity
(Geo-Marine, Inc.). Mexican style homes include flat-roofed, stuccoed homes of sandstone dating
to the 1870s and 1880s, stylish Victorian brick cottages, shotgun houses, board and batten box
houses, and brick commercial structures. A distinctive street scape pattern is the presence of a
residential dwelling attached to a commercial structure.
The neighborhood centered around the Escuela Amarilla, constructed of yellow brick in 1911 .
It replaced an earlier school established by alcalde Refugio Benavides in the 1870s. Situated
across from the school was the Plaza de Ia Noria, where freighters watered their horses and
residents drew their drinking water.
Residents of El Azteca worshipped at San Agustin Church and Iglesia Presbyterians Sinai,
which was founded on August 2, 1895. The church was located at 700 Lincoln until1955, when a
new church was constructed at 420 Washington. The barrio north of Matamoros extending to
the Texas Mexican tracks was referred to as "Salvation Arrriy." because of the location of the
Salvation Army Church at 408 Matamoros.
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The neighborhood was self-sufficient. Businesses represented in the barrio included bakeries,
food stores, cantinas, molinos, funeral homes, doctors offices, barbershops and blacksmiths.
Two-story commercial brick structures lined lturbide, one of the main thoroughfares. A boarding
house was located at 302 Farragut. The Laredo Coffee Company was located at the northeast
comer of Washington and San Francisco in 1925. Two bottling works, one at 308 San Enrique
and the other at 308 Hidalgo, were established around 1925.
Escuelitas, small one-room Spanish language preschools, were also established throughout
Azteca with the influx of new residents from Mexico during the 1910-1920 revolution. One
Mexican school was at 1011 San Enrique, another at 109 San Enrique. A private men's school
was conducted at 101 Water. In the 1930s, a boy's orphanage was operated at 201 Zaragoza by
La Amiga de Ia Obrera, an organization affiliated with the Roman Catholic Church.
Agribusiness abounded as feed stores with com mills sprang up along the eastern edge of the
barrio. A strip of molinos, or com mills, were located on San Franciso and San Eduardo:
Anahaur, 1519 San Francisco, El Azteca Molino, 1110 San Eduardo, El Progreso, 1129 San
Eduardo, and Mata, 2216 San Eduardo in the 1930s.
2.9.2 El Cuatro and El Tonto - El Rincon del Diablo
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Two other ear1y neighborhoods established in the 1880s were El Cuatro and El Tonto. El
Cuatro, is located in southwest Laredo, bounded by Fort Mcintosh and the International Great and
Northern Railroad and the Eagle Pass and Rio Grande Railroad (now the Union Pacific Railroad)
tracks on the west. Juarez Avenue on the east. lincoln Street on the north, and the Rio Grande
on the south. lfs name was derived from the city voting precinct in which it was located - the
"Fourth Ward." The latter half of this century, this section of town was referred to as "EI Rincon
del Diablo" for its reputation as a rough neighborhood.
Many early residents were employed with the railroads, and their box-shaped board and batten
homes are still present throughout the neighborhood. Board and batten structures were easily
and inexpensively built, meeting the immediate housing needs of the laborers. As late as 1900,
"Mexican dwellings and shanties" were present in the El Cuatro area. Numerous "thatched
dwellings" along the ravine on Zaragoza and Grant Streets between Santa Maria and Juarez
Avenues were noted on the Sanborn Fire Insurance Co. map. These thatched dwellings probably
were huts, or jacales. a Mexican house form typical of South Texas and Mexico.
Due to its proximity to Fort Mcintosh, the neighborhood attracted a small enclave of blacks.
For a short time in 1865, the post was manned by a company of the 62nd U.S. Colored Infantry
(called the "Buffalo Soldiers"). Since that time, a number of black units were stationed at the fort,
including Company K of the Black Twenty-Fifth United States Infantry in 1906. The soldiers'
families and their descendants made their home in El Cuatro and the small barrio across the
tracks called El Tonto, which was bounded on the north by Fort Mcintosh, on the ~ast by the
railroad tracks, and extended south to Ventura street One of the first schools for the blacks was
located on 1816 Lincoln in 1900. The Grayson school, which also served the black community in
the 1930s, was located on 2214 lturbide. The structure which still stands today is a board and
batten one room school house.
Two community traditions relate the naming of El Tonto. One suggests that the name was
derived from the deceptive practices of a local merchant who put rocks in the sacks of beans
before selling them at his store in El Tonto. "EI Tonto" refers to the unwary resident who
purchased the beans. A second folk tradition states that a group of boys was playing "chicken" at
the railroad tracks. One of the boys froze at the site of an oncoming train, but fortunately was
17
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rescued before disaster struck. From that day on, the neighborhood was referred to as the barrio
where "EI Tonto" lived (Ibarra, 1977).
At the tum of the century. a small neighborhood business district sprang up along West lincoln
and West Hidalgo streets, consisting of a cobbler, barber, groceries, confectionery, and a cigar
factory. Several bakeries and grocery stores were located on West lturbide Street. Larger
businesses were the Laredo Ice Factory operated by H. A. Sauvignet at Water and Santa Rita,
and the City Lumber Company at West Hidalgo and Davis.
A second business district was centered around the International and Great Northern
Passenger Oepo~ constructed in 1898 of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. The depot was
remodeled in 1948 and a freight warehouse was added. The Burley Hotel was located at the
comer of West Hidalgo and Santa Isabel, across from the freight depot Two other hotels located
near the depot in the 1920s: the Exchange Hotel at 2016 Fanragut and the International Hotel at
2017 Farragut The 1920s brick warehouses of Jos6 Montemayor and Roberto Zut\iga,
successful customs brokers, were situated west of Santa Isabel along the tracks.
In 1900, a one room school, was located at the comer of West lturbide and Santa Cleotilde.
This was probably one of the escuelitas or small private schools that were prevalent throughout
the city during the early twentieth century. Many of these private escuelitas provided kindergarten
instruction in Spanish, while others were business schools which offered office vocational classes.
The Associated Charities Hospital was located at 402 Davis, in the 1920s, providing medical
care to the neighborhood. The Laredo Seminary, founded in 1882 by the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, was located south of El Tonto at the bend of the river at VVilhelm St land for the
school was donated by Elias Robertson. Established as a school for Mexican youth, the seminary
conferred Bachelors degrees prior to 1913. later it was renamed the Holding Institute for Nannie
E. Holding, who served as school superintendent for more that 30 years. The school was
enlarged to include seven buildings on a twenty-six acre campus. When the flood of 1954 badly
damaged the buildings, the school moved to its present location off Santa Maria Avenue.
In the 1920s, other businesses were established in El Cuatro: Wormser Brothers warehouse
on 2020 Water, the laredo Creamery on 14071turbide, a bakery at 1520 lturbide, a store and
warehouse on 1519 Lincoln, and the Fordyce Oil Association Yards on the west across the
railroad tracks. Zarita Avenue, which was renamed Main Avenue in the 1920s, served as one of
the main thoroughfares for the residents ..
Three churches were established in the El Cuatro area. The First Presbyterian Church,
located at the northwest comer of Lincoln Street and Juirez Avenue, was built in 1901. United
Methodist Church was built in 1917 at 1600 Hidalgo St. Saint James Tabernacle, a church for
black residents, was located at 1913 Hidalgo, circa 1931. The house of worship, which still stands
today, is a board and batten shotgun-style structure with double doors.
2.9.3 St. Peter's Neighborhood
Bounded by Santa Maria, the Texas-Mexican tracks, the Missouri Pacific tracks and
Hidalgostreet on the south, the St. Peter's neighborhood developed between 1881 and World War
I. Prior to the 1880s, the neighborhood was occupied by a few families; however, the arrival of
the railroad prompted expansion into this area by European and Jewish immigrants who came to
be counted among laredo's prominent citizens. Many of these residents such as the Saddlers,
Spurrlers, Hamblins, Thompsons, Pappas and Oevines were connected with the railroad. Others
such as the Richters, Oeutz's, leyendeckers, McKnights,·Russells, and Woodman family were
prominent in·the business community.
18
The immigration to the city spurred by the railroads brought cultural diversity to the
neighborhood, where Ireland, Germany, Denmark, Mexico, and Poland were represented.
Architecture also was diverse, as the most popular styles were utilized: Classical Revival, Late
Victorian, Bungalow, and Prairie Style.
The neighborhood was named forSt Peter's Church, on 1500 Matamoros, which was
constructed in 1896-1897, by Heinrich (Enrique) Portscheller, a well-known German builder and
mason of south Texas. It was Laredo's first Catholic church for English speakers. The St. Peter's
congregation established a school at 1607 Victoria in 1899, and the plaza became a recreational
area for the students. Another Catholic school was established at 1717 Houston Street by the
Salesian Sisters called the Mary Help of Christians School.
Several other houses of worship were built in St Peter's neighborhood: 1) Creath Memorial
Baptist Church at 1600 Houston, 1901; 2) First Christian Church, 1601 Victoria, 1910; 3) Christ
Episcopal Church, 1601 Farragut, 1883-1884; 4) the Christian Science Reading Room, 1819
Houston, 1930 and 5) Temple B'nai Israel, 1600 Washington, 1939.
Two schools were established in StPeter's in the early 20th century. Constructed at 1619
Victoria Street in 1916, Urbahn school was named for Albert Urbahn, a citizen of Swiss descent
who was a prominent sheep rancher and popular political figure. The 1916 Urbahn school
replaced an older school building located at that site which was also named for Urbahn (1900 City
Directory). Miss Julia Shults served as principal of Urbahn School in the 1920s. Harding school
was constructed in 1923 at 1701 VICtoria Street The junior high was named for warren G.
Harding, President of the United State~ who won election in 1920.
2.9.4 The Heights
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The development of the Heights was closely connected with the establishment of an electric
street car system in Laredo. In 1888, an application for a charter was forwarded to Austin, Texas
by a group of businessmen requesting permission to organize the Laredo Improvement Company.
The capital stock was placed at $100,0000 which was to be divided into ten thousand shares at a
value of ten dollars per share. The Laredo Improvement Company would purchase property,
erect buildings, accumulate and loan funds, and construct a street railway system. The first
directors were Al. Mclane, A.W. VVilcox, S.H. Bass, Thomas Ryan, C.J. McManus, A. Thaison
and J.P. Flynn (Devine).
The proposed street car system was designed to attract prospective buyers in the Heights
residential addition owned by the Laredo Land Improvement Company. With the completion of
the line, a real estate boom occurred between 1889 and 1895. The old Heights area was situated
along Market Street and bounded on the south by the Texas Mexican tracks along Aldama Street,
on the west by Zacate Creek, on the east by Meadow Avenue, and on the north by Guadalupe
Street
Street car service was established on December 5, 1889, and was possibly the first electric
street car line west of the Mississippi River. The initial route of the railway began at Farragut and
Santa Isabel, turned sharply north on Santa Rita, headed east on Matamoros; turned south on
Salinas back to Farragut, and proceeded east until it reached San Enrique; south to lturbide; and
traveled diagonally over a narrow bridge at Zacate Creek; then it proceeded east on Market to
Meadow (Buenz). Later it proceeded north on Meadow and Mendiola to the cemetery. A car
shop and power plant of brick were built to service the electric railway.
In the 1920s, the tracks were removed from Matamoros, and placed entirely on Farragut with
the street paving program. At this time other trolley lines were developed along San Bernardo and
19
Map of Historic Trolley Routes
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Santa Ursula to Shea Street, along Davis and Santa Maria to Pai'K Street, and along Washington
and Garfield east to Hendricks Avenue.
In the early 20th century, Lama Vista Pai'K was laid out as an inducement to street car riders.
The original pai'K plans included a stage and theatrical company; however, unsuccessful, these
plans were abandoned. In 1911, the Heights Civic Club took on the task of beautifying the park.
The area was fenced to prevent cattle and livestock from roaming the area. In addition to an
orange grove, a gazebo and swings were added. On July 20, 1920, the Heights Civic Club
represented by E.R. Tarver, B.H. Guinn, J.S. Westbrook and W.B. Keames, petitioned the City
Council for additional police protection to prevent the furnishings and shrubbery from being
destroyed. Shortly after World War I, the American Legion building was constructed, which was
later rented for private dances. The Girl Scouts later took up residence in the American Legion
Hall (Shanks).
Other recreational facilities were constructed in the 1920s. The Bella Vista Natatorium and
Skating Rink was located at the northwest comer of Lane and Sanders, and the laredo Ball Park
was located at Corpus Christi and Marcella.
laredo's first modem hospital opened in 1894 at the J.P. Flynn residence, 1320 Rosario Street,
in the Heights. In 1899, the hospital moved to the Steffian residence at Matamoros Street and
Juarez Street facing Jarvis Plaza. Heights Elementary School at 1216 Market St was built
around 1911. The Sacred Heart Catholic Orphans Home was located at Seymour and Guadalupe
in the 1920s. The 1920 City Directory listed the location of the Catholic Orphan's Asylum at 1402
Guadalupe, at the comer of Seymour and Guadalupe.
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On February 1, 1921, permission was granted by the City Council to open several streets in
the Heights - Guadalupe, Chihuahua, Urbahn Avenue, and Buena Vista to laredo Street. Also,
that year, permission was granted to erect a Japanese style kiosk at Lorna Vista Park to provide
refreshments (City Minute Book).
On March 16, 1928, the city approved the building of its second fire station at 1600
Guadalupe. Constructed in 1929, this Eclectic style fire station provided service to the Heights
neighborhood. The station was equipped with a new pumper truck and a hose and ladder truck.
The building is now a boxing gym and a neighborhood police sub-station.
Many stately homes were built along Market and adjacent streets which exhibited a variety of
architectural styles: Late Victorian. Prairie Style, Craftsman, Italian Renaissance Revival and
Spanish Colonial Revival. This elite residential area expanded northward in the 1930s and 1940s.
The 1931 Sanborn Fire Insurance Map showed The Heighfs extending north to lyon.
Sl Joseph's Academy was located on the west side of Marcella between Musser & Guerrero.
Established in 1937 by the Marist Brothers, the boy's school operated until 1973. It was later
purchased by L.I.S.D and is presently the home of Memorial Middle School. The old convent
downtown was sold to raise funds for a new Ursuline Academy. Located at 1300 Galveston, the
building was completed in 1940. Trout and Leyendecker of Laredo were the architects. The
$100,000 structure included a combination gym and auditorium. Peter P. Leyendecker and A.
Median Martinez were the contractors for the building.
South of the Heights, an industrial district developed near the Texas-Mexican tracks in the
1920s. Businesses included Laredo Mattress, Laredo Soap Factory, John F. Grant Lumber Co.,
Laredo Lumber Co., Humble Oil Co. , Farmer's Gin, and John Finnigan Wool Hides and Skins,
T.A. Austin Produce Co. and Border Foundry and Machine Co. The Texas-Mexican warehouses
are an outstanding example of Mexican commercial architecture featuring the rancho-style
elevated gable ends.
20
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2.9.5 Los Barrios del Norte
Laredo's residential areas expanded north of the Texas Mexican railroad tracks during the
great immigration north by refugees of the Mexican Revolution of 1910-1920. Workers lived in
board and batten homes in close proximity to the brick factories and the railroads. One and two
story brick homes and neighborhoods businesses extended to Jefferson Street on the north along
West Stmchez Street and Santa Maria Avenue, the main thoroughfares.
La Ladrillera developed in proximity to the brick factories on what was the northwest side of
Laredo in the 1880s.la ladrillera was bounded by the Rio· Grande on the west, the I.G. & N.
and E.P. and R.G. Railroad tracks on the east, Moctezurna Street on the south, and Jefferson
Street on the north.
Brick manufacturing industries located in the area were owned by Andrew Thaison and S.N.
Johnson. Laredo's annual export of brick amounted to $3 million in 1889 (Tarver). The bricks were
manufactured from the local soils, and were exported as far as San luis Potosi, Mexico, and San
Antonio and Austin, Texas. In 1889, about 80% of the buildings built in laredo were of local
manufacture.
Laredo Brick Company, located on Block 523, Western Division, provided jobs for local
residents. The complex included three kilns, a mixing room and two large drying rooms in 1925.
The Johnson Brick Yard was between Washington and Moctezuma and Fort Mcintosh and
Eavens Avenue. The manufacturing industry had five kilns, a mixing shed and two large drying
sheds. In 1925, the S.N. Johnson Bottling Works were located in La ladrillera.
Another employer was the Eagle Pass and Rio Grande Railroad Shops and Passenger Depot
situated on Block 278 and 279, Western Division along Santa Rita Avenue between Scott and
Benavides. After the coal production declined in the 1930s, the many workers from the coal
mines northwest of the city settled in this neighborhood which became known as Los Mineros.
Many mining families brought their Zapotec Indian traditions to La ladrillera, and today Los
Matachines dance troupe continues the traditional tribal dance on May 3. the feast day of Santa
Cruz.
To the east of La ladrillera. another barrio centered around Holy Redeemer Church on Davis
Avenue. Dedicated on August 29, 1909, Holy Redeemer was affiliated with San Agustin Church.
The first priest was Father Jose Pel'la, who had been exiled from Mexico during the Revolution. In
1933 the church was enlarged to three times its original size at a cost of$16,000 (Hernandez,
1984). The Fourth Ward School, established circa 1920, was situated to the south of the church
on Santa Cleotilde and Zarita (Main). In 1930, C.M. MacDonell School was built at the site of the
former school.
To the east of Holy Redeemer was the barrio referred to as El Trece. A small business district
sprang up along Santa Maria, which was later augmented by the trolley line that proceeded north
on Santa Maria to Park Street later in 1926, Santa Maria Avenue was paved during the
aggressive paving program of the middle twenties. The Alfredo Santos grocery store was located
at 1900 Santa Maria. The Santos family, originally from Candela, Coahuila, fled to laredo during
the Mexican Revolution. In 1935, the Santa Maria grocery was located at 1519 Santa Maria and
the Santa Maria Meat Market was at 1704 Santa Maria. The latter was operated by Geronimo
Santos.
A warehouse district developed along the tracks at Moctezuma. Industries located in this
area in 1925 were the Eagle Pass lumber Co., laredo Roller Mill, J.C. Netzer Co. Storage and
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Warehouse, an Ice Cream Factory and cold storage warehouse, Consumer Ice and Fuel Co.,
Laredo Iron Works, and City Lumber Yard. Just to the south of the tracks was the Texas Harvest
Hat Company. Founded in 1922. it was one of the largest hat companies in the world. In the
1940s, it produced five million hats a year which were exported on a world wide basis (Chamber
of Commerce, c. 1945).
An Eclectic style junior high opened in 1931 on a 10 acre campus was named for L. J.
Christen, superintendent for public school from 1901 to 1929. Originally the school, located at
Santa Maria and Salinas, was a two story main building of brick. The old Laredo High School
gymnasium was moved to Christen. Another elementary school was constructed on Santa Maria
Avenue around this time.
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Considered the most modem school in the state, Martin High School opened it doors on
March 8, 1937, The school was named in honor of Raymond and Tirza Martin, parents of Mayor
Albert Martin and Joe C. Martin who was president of the school board and sheriff of Webb
County. Work on the school began in August of 1935, with a loan from the Federal govemment.
The School was constructed of fire proof material with a steel foundation and reinforced cement
frame, floor, and roof. The exterior walls consisted of orange brick with buff trimmings of stone.
The architecture was described as "plain American design." The corridors and entry floors were
of terrazzo and the classroom floor of linoleum. Beech flooring was used in the
gymnasium-auditorium. Unseen improvements included walls of sound proof Celotex; copper
plumbing, and a public address system. The auditoriul'n-4dYmnasium seated 2,500. Other
features included 29 classrooms, 4 study halls, library, drama room, offices, commercial
department, home economics department. and science department The home economics
department. located on the second floor, featured a cottage with living room, bedroom, bathroom
and food and clothing lab. The science department had a chemistry and physics lab, general
science lab, biology lab, classrooms, lecture rooms, dark room, work room and science library.
Landscaping included concrete walks and a 62 foot high flag pole front of the school. The cost of
the construction was $353,000. $240,000 was obtained from the sale of bonds and $103,000
from a Progress Works Administration grant. M.L. Ryland of Uvalde was contractor. Mr. Johnson
was government engineer for the public work. (La Pitahya, 1937. pp. 14, 150).
North of Jefferson, other barrios developed between 1935 and 1950. Canta Rana was situated
between Lafayette and Chicago, bounded by Rio Grande on the west and the railroad tracks on
the east. The name referred to the sounds of the "croaking frogs" after heavy rains which flooded
the low-lying neighborhood. Los Amores, bounded by Santa Maria on the west, Zacate Creek on
the east, was named for the Lover's Lane (Ibarra, 1977). Sal Si Puedes, translated as "leave if
you can" was situated to the west of Canta Rana, between Baltimore and Chicago, and Santa
Maria and Zacate Creek.
2.9.6 La Guadalupe
The neighborhood of Guadalupe was centered around Our Lady of Guadalupe School and
Church. Originally constructed in 1897 as a mission chapel, the altar was donated by a
Guadalajara family. In 1902, a brick tower was constructed and bell installed. The school began
operations in 1904. A new church was constructed in 1928. The new brick church featured a five
story tower. Built at a cost of $60,000 the church was dedicated on October 15, 1928. To
continue efforts in Catholic education, a new school was built on the site of the old church in the
1920s. Around 1931, a second house of worship was established in La Guadalupe. The
Assembly of God Church was located at 219 Park.
The Guadalupe neighborhood extended from Moctezuma on the south, San Dario on the west,
22
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Zacate Creek on the east. and Shea Avenue on the north. The neighborhood is characterized by
bungalows and board and batten box houses. Businesses included Alamo Bottle Works at 1414
San Dario. Cavasos and Bro. Wholesale Grocery at 1320 San Eduardo, and Gonzales Hide Co.
at 1307 San Jorge Avenue.
At the tum of the century, the First Ward School, located at 600 Benavides, served the
Guadalupe residents. In 1927, Bruni elementary was constructed on the site of First Ward
School. Colonia Guadalupe, the first public housing project of laredo was constructed in 1940 as
a Works Progress Administration project. Plans called for the construction of 272 houses to rent
from $4 to $8 a month. $900,000 was allocated for the project, sponsored by the United States
Housing Authority. The neighborhood north of the Colonia Guadalupe was settled between
1935-1945. This addition was bounded by Madison on the north, San Francisco on the east,
Shea on the south, and Santa Ursula on the west
In 1854, citizens were given the opportunity to reinter burials from the San Agustin Campo
Santo at the Mexican catholic Cemetery. located at Scott and San Francisco Avenue. The
"Mexican Catholic Cemetery" appeared on the Laredo Real Estate Map of 1898, and occupied
two city blocks. Later these graves were reinterred at the City Cemetery on Meadows and
Saunders prior to 1939. The Boys Club of America selected the site at Scott and San Francisco
for a Boy's Club building to serve Laredo's needy youth. The building constructed of native stone
found on a nearby ranch, was started in 1939 and completed in 1942. The $200,000 structure
included a large gymnasium with a maple floor, game rooms and an indoor swimming pool.
Designed by local architect Lawson Ubby Wagner, the building was constructed by H.B. Zachry
without compensation. From 1942-1946, the club was used for U.S.O. functions.
2.10 Downtown Laredo In the Early Twentieth Century
The tumultuous Mexican Revolution of 1910-1920 brought a tide of immigrants to Laredo.
Many of these immigrants found employment in the booming industries of coal mining, onion··
agriculture, and later in the 1920s, oil and gas production. In a 1929 article entitled "Progress
South Texas. A Sectional Review," other industries which contributed to the city's growth were
listed: extensive manufacturing, cotton gins, meat packing plants, houses, coffee roasters and
packers, canneries, oil refineries, mattress factory. planing mills, brick kilns, mosaic tile factory . six
lumber companies, hat factory, Mexican product manufacturers, stove foundry, twenty wholesale
houses and four machine shops including terminal shops of the Missouri Pacific and Texas
Mexican Railway. The article noted that Webb County had the "largest cannel coal deposits in the
United States and possibly the world." The gas fields e~st of the city were among the "largest in
the world."
This economic boom in the early 20th century resulted in new development in the downtown
business district The Federal Building and Post Office was built in 1906-1907 by the U.S.
Department of the Treasury in Classical Revival style. To cater to the business travelers and the
"drummers" (traveling salesmen), the Bender Hotel and the St. Anthony Hotel were constructed in
the Jarvis Plaza vicinity around 1910. later, in the 1920s, several new buildings were erected
near Jarvis Plaza: the 12 story Hamilton Hotel, the 5 story Sames Moore building, and the
Knights of Pythias Building at 618 Salinas. Designed by noted Texas architects, Atlee B. Ayers
and son Robert M. Ayers, the Hamilton Hotel was built in 1923, and additions were made to the
structure in 1926-1928. An impressive 12 story Art Deco building with Spanish Revival influence,
the hotel's notable features included the ceramic tile work and the elaborate, glazed copper
marquise which extends across the facade. The Southem Hotel, constructed in 1889-1890,
originally formed part of the Hamilton Hotel which wrapped around the comer onto Salinas
Avenue. In 1990, the Hamilton was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Sames
Moore Building was built by W.J. Sames and J.R. Moore, founders of the first Ford dealership in
23
Texas. The dealership was started in 1910 and by the late 1920s, more than 1000 automobiles
were sold a year. The structure is an outstanding example of 1920s commercial architecture.
Mercy Hospital, located west of Jarvis Plaza was expanded with a second addition in 1915. In
1929, the hospital was renovated and converted into a three story structure providing space for
operating rooms, clinical laboratory and x-ray department, and hospital beds. This structure was
demolished in 1985.
The Robert E. Lee Hotel on Hidalgo St. and San Bernardo Avenue was constructed during this
unprecedented period of growth. These buildings were characteristic of the stacked vertical block
. architectural tradition. Soaring land values and the demand for taller buildings led to the
development of the "skyscraper." This three part vertical block consisted of a base, shaft, and
capital. Designed by San Antonio architect John M. Marriott, the Robert E. lee Hotel was built in
1926 in the tradition of Beaux Arts with Spanish Colonial Revival detail. From 1940-1979, the
building was known as the Plaza Hotel. One of laredo's first skyscrapers, the eight story Robert
E. Lee Hotel had 150 rooms and a roof garden. The hotel was equipped with a passenger
elevator, vapor steam heat, running ice water, and a refrigeration plant AM. Bruni was the
principal owner. During the Great Depression, the hotel was purchased by R.W. Morrison who
owned the St Anthony Hotel in San Antonio. Morrison furnished the hotel with elegant French
antiques, and the hotel became the headquarters for all social and civic activities. In the 1940s,
the hotel was purchased by the Moody interests of Galveston, and the name was changed to the
Plaza Hotel. The Beaux-Arts style refers to an early 20th century French influenced design of
public spaces with details such as grand stairways, arches, columns, medallions, and sculptural
figures.
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The Central Fire Station was constructed on the site of the original fire station at 912
Matamoros which was built in 1883. After a series of fires downtown which caused several
thousands of dollars worth of damage, the fire department was reorganized by Mayor Albert
Martin. On February 24, 1928, the city acquired a lot for an enlarged fire station which was
bordered by San Agustin and San Bernardo Avenues and Matamoros and Houston Streets. The
newly renovated station had exits on both Matamoros and Houston Street The $30,000 structure
was designed by Fred Buenz of laredo and John M. Marriott, architects. John Sipple of New
Braunfels was the contractor. The two story building was of Art Deco design. The second floor
served as a dormitory for the 20 paid firemen, equipped with lockers, baths, the chiefs office, the
chiefs private room, and an office for the captain. The lower floor served as the equipment room
which housed an American "La France" pumper and an American "La France" service truck with
five story ladder. The bays were altered when the building became municipal court. The original
bell from the 1883 station is displayed on the premises.
The Great Depression did not slow down expansion of the downtown. The City Drug Co.
building on the northeast comer of Hidalgo Sl and Flores Avenue was constructed in 1933. The
old Richter building was razed to make room for a "modem business building." In 1933, a
proposal to trade the federal building site for the city hall was put forth by Mayor Albert Martin. The
Federal Building was to be acquired by the City for use as a City Hall, and a new federal building
would be erected on the Mercado. However, this plan never reached fruition. As a result, the
Federal Building was remodeled and enlarged at a cost of $254,000 in 1937. That same year a
new Webb County jail, a $70,000 construction, was near completion. A $7,600 "super-filling
station" with Spanish style roof was erected by B.M. Alexander at the comer of San Bernardo and
Matamoros for the Shell Petroleum Co. A 1940 Laredo Times newspaper article listed
construction and improvements undertaken by the Works Progress Administration in Webb
County: "Highways, roads, and streets, 184 miles; new bridges built. 44; bridges reconstructed,
39; culverts installed or improved 291; new public buildings constructed, 4; public buildings
improved, 38; stadiums built and improved, 1; utility plants built and improved, 2."
24
CAL TON GARO£NS
IN
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'
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\
I
In the mist of the movement towards modem ism. architect Salvador Sanderson urged the
citizens of laredo to embrace traditional Spanish/Mexican architecture in a letter to the editor of
the Laredo Morning Times (1937 issue). He argued that the Spanish buildings designed around
an open courtyard offered comfort, privacy. and pleasure. and made a plea for the use of local
materials and designs:
"A thin sheet of gypsum (a goner in ten years) between two sheets
of paper printed to imitate wood retails for more money than the lumber
it is supposed to substitute. The Spaniard has always built with material
at hand if it was nothing more than adobe, and I have yet to meet the
architect that will deny that adobe is not a good building material.. .. 'Nhy
then do we.not build as we do? It is because Oregon termite food supply,
covered thin sheets of Oregon plaster board and painted with European
oxide of iron is cheaper than a real building of Laredo stone or brick or
adobe? No, cost is not the reason.... To begin a building with a hand full
of colored magazine advertisements and a diagram of some remote
structure built in a different climate is a sure way to perpetuate discomfort
and mediocrity at excessive costs..... What has Laredo to build with? We
have excellent sand stone, clay for tile and brick, adobe, sand, gravel, lime,
and small timber. Should these things be used, or should one send off to
Alabama for corrugated iron; Detroit for windows; New Orteans for Celotex;
New England for slate; Oregon for lumber; Chicago for paper; and New York
for rubber tile."
Sanderson offered advice to Laredo's builders:
!
)
''The result produced by clean white buildings beneath a pale blue sky
(punctuated with green vegetation growing out of a tan colored soil) would
create such amazing and beneficial results - such things as zoning ordinances,
art commissions and improvement districts would come into being immediately
for greater results.... But it need not be Spanish or Mexican or Californian if
these words ring harsh on the laredo ear. An idea, co-operation, harmony.
team work, punch, and follow through are vital to building a successful
community."
2.11 The Automobile Era and Laredo's Suburban Additions
''The greatest and most important epoch-making event in the history of Laredo was that day in
1921 when the taxpayers of Laredo, by·unanimous vote, carried a bond issue of $150,000 for the
paving of the streets of Laredo," according to a 1925 Chamber of Commerce publication.
One-third of the cost of the street paving was to be bom by the citizens of Laredo. Shortly
thereafter, citizens approved a $71,000 bond issue for a sanitary and storm sewer system. On
February 13, 1923, a contract was let to Southwest Bitulithic Company for the paving of 104
blocks with Warrenite Bitulithic for $400,000. In 1925, the estimated expenditure to "thoroughly
pave the entire city" was $1,500,000 to "make Laredo a mecca for automobile tourists." The
paving project was later followed by a study for one-way streets in 1931 .
A Laredo Times article dating December 27, 1923, reported on the progress of the paving
program: "...during the year 1923 Laredo has made greater progress toward becoming a modem
and metropolitan city than in all previous years.... People will remember it as the year during which
the thoroughfares of laredo were converted from unsighUy mud puddles after a rain or a whirling
dust cloud during a dry spell, into modem, beautiful paved streets .... County highways have been
25
the city limits of Laredo to the Webb County line...."
.
·~
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The automobile spurred expansion of the city's residential areas. Established between 1900
and 1930, Montrose. or "EI Monte" was the first controlled access subdivision. The neighborhood
was bounded by Market on the north, Mercer on the south, Meadow on the west and Milmo on the
east. The predominant architecture was characterized by Craftsman and Prairie style homes
which were dressed with clapboard or stuccoed finishes. Several Tudor style (1890-1940} homes
showcase dressed sandstone masonry. Several magnificent Spanish Colonial Revival homes
occupying one-quarter of a block were constructed along Guatemozin. Montrose pubfic school,
constructed in 1929, was located on the 100 block of Meadow (now Daiches Elementary}.
Located adjacent to the school was Sl Joseph's Catholic Church constructed in 1931. Small
neighborhood stores and the Pepsi Cola Bottling works sprang up along Willow Street. The Pepsi
Cola bottling works was constructed in 1901. This Mexican style brick building had two foot thick
walls and original wooden doors. ·Across the street was the Perez grocery store, another early
1900 two story structure.
The section south of Chacon Street came to be known as Barrio Chacon. This neighborhood
was characterized by board and batten box houses and small bungalows. To the south of the
barrio, the land was under cultivation and dairy farms were located along the Rio Grande River
banks. In 1925, an irrigation lake was situated at Chacon and Hendricks. According to the 1900
City Directory, a school was located on Chacon Creek.
\
The addition which became known as Santo Nino was laid out in the 1920s, but was not settled
until the 1940s. This neighborhood, located east of Chacon creek south of Three Points, was
named for a capilla (family chapel) dedicated to El Santo Nilfo. According to local tradition, the
statue of the Santo Nino was brought from a Nuevo Laredo church during the Revolution and kept
in a residence. Later a frame chapel was constructed on Santa Clara and Sacred Heart by
Anselmo Perez to praise the safe return of his son, Bernardo, from World War II.
Platted on August 7, 1925, Calton Gardens was another early suburban development of
Laredo. On February 2. 1926, a highway was paved through Calton Gardens to a connection with
San Bernardo Avenue. In 1935, six residences had been established in Calton Gardens.
2.12 San Bernardo Avenue and the Tourist Courts
A 1945 Chamber of Commerce publication heralded tourism trade as a major industry in
Laredo. Describing Laredo as a "warm weather resort," the Chamber of Commerce reported
30,000 cars carrying approximately 100,000 American tourists to the city. "Laredo, as the
principal gateway to the land of romance and charm, will unquestionably entertain the vast
majority of this mighty horde of pleasure seekers." The pamphlet described amenities including
"several excellent tourist agents" and the "finest tourist courts and hotels in the nation."
During the 1930s, the age of the automobile, tourist courts sprang up along San Bernardo
Avenue, the commercial strip on the outskirts of town. To accommodate the "auto" tourist,
restaurants, auto repair shops, car washes, and filling stations lined the avenue. The 1935 City
Directory listed the following ''Tourist Camps" on San Bernardo: CasaGrande at 3412, Cruz at
3401, Laredo at 2708, Las Palmas Court at 3502, San Antonio at 3019, and Virginia Courts at
1110. Other tourist camps included two motels on Santa Maria Avenue: Gateway at 4119 and
Longhorn at 3700. The few tourist courts that remain are significant landmarks reflecting the early
twentieth century car culture.
26
; ~- ::-·1
The Cactus Gardens Cafe, at 3201 San Bernardo, was a popular tourist attraction in the 1940s.
Operated by A.L. Jones, the Spanish Colonial style building housed more than 100 varieties of
cacti.
In 1935, the city limits ended at Jefferson. The San Antonio highway began an Shea along
Santa Maria Avenue. Two major industries, laredo Texas Mining and Smelting Company and
laredo Gravel Works, were located on the San Antonio highway. north of the city limits. The city
of laredo covered 13 square miles with a population of 38,969, including its suburbs.
1936, the year of the Texas Centennial, marked a major milestone in Laredo's transportation
history. Seven years earlier the segment of highway between laredo and Monterrey was paved.
However, it was not until1936 that the Pan American Highway to Mexico City was completed,
transforming laredo into a modem Gateway City.
2.13 Bibliography
Arreola, Daniel D. "Plaza Towns of South Texas," Geographical Review, v. 82, no. 1, January
1992.
Azteca Economic Development and Preservation Corporation. Aztecs News. laredo: April, 1993.
Bailey, Ben P., Jr. Borderlands Sketchbook.
Benavides, Adan, Jr. 'The Fortification of laredo: The Documentary Evidence for Proposals in
1792 and 1813." El Campanario. Texas Old Missions and Forts Restoration Association, vol. 20,
no. 3, September 1989. Laredo Public library, Luciano Guajardo Historical Collection.
Briggs, A.K Archeological Investigations of an Area Proposed for Vegetation Management at Fort
Mcintosh, U.S.A. (1849-1946). Georgetown, Texas: Lone Star Archeological Services, 1982.
Bruseth, James E. Texas Preservation Guidelines. Austin: Texas Historical Commission, 1994.
Buenz, J. letter to Mark Cook. February 14, 1977. Laredo Public library.
Can~.
Gloria Zuniga. The Ramon Family in Laredo, 1765-1916. Master's Thesis. laredo
State University, 1990.
Chamber of Commerce. Laredo The Gateway City, pamphlet, 1926.
- - - - - - -·· Laredo - Gateway to Mexico, pamphlet, n.d. (circa 1945).
Charter of the City of Laredo, Texas. January 29, 1848. Gammel's Laws, Vol. 3, pp. 343-347.
Charter of the City of Laredo, Texas. February 9, 1850. Gammel's Laws, Vol. 3, pp. 760-761 .
Charter of the City of Laredo, Texas. February 23, 1911. Gammel's Laws, Vol. 15, pp. 58-89.
Typescripts. Laredo Public library, Luciano Guajardo Historical Collection.
City of Laredo's Minute Books. City Secretary's Office.
Clark, John W ., Jr. and Ana Maria Juarez. Urban Archaeology: A Culture History of a
Mexican-American Barrio in Laredo, Webb County, Texas, Report No. 31. Texas State
Department of Highways and Public Transportation. December 1986.
Clippings files. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Historical Collection.
27
, -:- ~-"!
Cook, Mary. Untitled article. South Texas Citizen, February 25, 1962.
Copy of the General Visita of Laredo, 1767, from a translation made by J. V. Hagard, Translator of
the Bexar Archives. 1936. Typescript Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Historical
Collection.
Cox, Rachel S. Design Review in Historic Districts. Washington, D.C.: National Trust for Historic
Preservation.
Da Camara, Kathleen. Laredo on the Rio Grande. San Antonio: Naylor Press, 1949.
Devine, Ella. "laredo Electric Railway Co." Southern Traction Annals, n.d.
Falvella, J.W. A Souvenir Album of Laredo- -rhe Gateway to Mexico.•laredo, 1916.
Fox, O.E. Archeological Monitoring and Testing for Building Construction and Landscaping on the
site of Fort Mcintosh, Laredo, Texas. UTSA/CAR: 1978.
_ _ _, Archeological Testing at Fort Mcintosh, Laredo Junior College Campus, Laredo, Texas.
UTSA/CAR: 1979.
Fox, Daniel E. Traces of Texas History: Archeological Evidence of the Past 450 Years. San
Antonio: Corona Publishing Company, 1983.
Garcia, Josephine Worsham. "The Coal Mines." Typescript. laredo Public library, Luciano
Guajardo Historical Collection.
\
Garcia, Rogelia. The Bells of St. Augustine. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Collection.
Geo-Marine, Inc. Environmental Impact Statement for the Laredo Border Station Expansion,
Laredo, Texas. Prepared for General Services Administration Region 7, Fort Worth, Texas, May
1991. Draft.
Glassie, Henry. Pattern in the Material Folk Culture of the eastern United States. University of
Pennsylvania, 1968.
Graham, Joe S. "Built Environment in South Texas - The Hispanic Legacy," Hispanic Texas -A
Historical Guide. Helen Simons and Cathy A Hoyt. eels. Austin: University of Texas Press,
1992, pp. 58-75.
Green, Stan. A History of Webb County, 2nd Edition. Laredo: Border Studies Center, 1992.
- -- -· The Story of Laredo (Volumes 1-9). Laredo: Border Studies Center, 1992.
- - - - · The Story of Laredo (Volumes 10-18). Laredo: Border Studies Center, 1991.
Hamilton, Arthur C. "History of Laredo," New Encyclopedia of Texas, 1929.
Hernandez, Ricardo. "A Brief History of Holy Redeemer Church." Holy Redeemer Catholic
Church, Laredo, Texas, Directory. 1984.
Hester, Thomas R. Digging into South Texas Prehistory. San Antonio: Corona Publishing Co.,
1980.
28
Hinojosa, Gilberta. A Borderlands Town in Transition: Laredo
1983.
175~1970.
Texas A&M Press,
Houk, Brett A, Anne A. Fox, I. Waynne Cox, and James E. Warren. Historical Archeology at Fort
Mcintosh in Laredo, Webb County, Texas: The Import/Export Educational Facility at Laredo
Community College, Report No. 400. George West: Archaeology Consultants, Inc. February
1995.
Ibarra, Olga. Neighborhoods of Laredo. Term Paper for HST 446. Fall1977. Laredo State
University. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Collection.
lvey, J.E., T. Medlin, and J.D. Eaton. An Initial Archaeological Assessment of Area Proposed for
Modification at Fort Mcintosh, Webb County, Texas. Report No. 32. UTSAICAR: 1977.
Jackson, Jack. Los Mestenos: Spanish Ranching in Texas, 1721-1821. Texas A&M Press,
1986.
Jordan, Terry G. Texas Graveyards: A Cultural Legacy. Austin: University of Texas Press,
1982.
Kniffen, Fred. "Folk Housing: Key to Diffusion.• Annals of the Association of American
Geographers, vol. 55, no. 4 (December, 1965), pp. 549-577.
La Pitahaya. 1917, 1924, 1925, 1926, 1928, 1929, 1937, 1944. Laredo Public Library, Luciano
Guajardo Historical Collection.
\
' :
Laredo Archives. St Mary's University. San Antonio, Texas.
Laredo City Directories, 1900, 1911, 1920-1921, 1922-1923, 1930, 1935. Laredo Public Library,
Luciano Guajardo Historical Collection.
Laredo- The Gateway. Pamphlet laredo Immigration Society, 1889.
Laredo Morning Times. The Builders of the Laredos. Loose-leaf Edition, 1952. Revised reports
from the Laredo Times appearing from May through November 1951.
Laredo Times Centennial Edition. November 8, ·1981. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo
Collection.
laredo Times. Laredo - the Gateway. Pamphlet, May 1, 1925. Laredo Public Library, Luciano
Guajardo Collection.
Leyendecker & Cavazos. Architects and Carol Gunter. Design Standards and Inventory of
Significant Buildings, Old Mercado District, Laredo, Texas. July, 1982.
Longstreet, Richard. The Buildings of Main Street. Washington, D.C.: The Preservation Press,
National Trust for Historic Preservation, 1985.
Map. "1757 Cuervo Report. Rancho de Dolores. Pueblo de Laredo." British Library.
Map of Laredo, 1890. Laredo Real Estate Co. Facsimile. WCHF.
29
Map of Laredo, Texas, February 6, 1890. City Planning Department.
Map of laredo, 1911 . Sam T. Foster, Jr. & E.J. Foster, C.E. Webb County. LPL.
Map. "Plano de Los Dos Laredos." January 1881, E. R. Laroche, ingeniero civil. Colecci6n
General. Tamaulipas.
Map. "Sketch of the Grounds leased by the United States from the City of Laredo in 1853."
National Archives. Copy at LPL.
McCullough, Sheena T. "Progress South Texas- A Sectional Review," Texas Pioneer. San
Antonio, 1929.
McGraw, Joachim, John W. Clark, Jr. and Elizabeth A Robbins (eds). A Texas Legacy : The
Old San Antonio Road, or Los Caminos Reales -a Tricentennial History. Austin: Texas
Department of Highways and Public Transportation, 1991.
Medlin, T. A Preliminary Report on Archeological Testing at Fort Mcintosh, Laredo Junior College
Campus, Laredo, Texas. UTSAICAR. 1977.
~--· Archeological Testing for Proposed Water/Sewer Une Ditch on Fort Mcintosh, Laredo,
Texas. Letter Report. UTSA/CAR, 1977.
Nixon, Nina L. "No Place Uke Home," Curator magazine, 1988, vol. 31 , no. 2, pp. 141-144.
--~---· "Mexican-American Voluntary Associations in Omaha, Nebraska," Journal of the
West, July 1989, vol. 28, no. 3, pp. 73-85.
\
.'
Nixon-Mendez, Nina. "Los Fundadores Urbanos: The Hispanic History of Dallas, 1850-1940."
Journal of the West, October, 1993.
- - - - - -· "Los Recuerdos," Legacies: A Journal of North Texas History, Spring 1990.
_ _ _ _ _ _., "Museum Receives New Lease on Life," Mi Laredo magazine. Fall, 1994.
Phillips, Steven J. Old-House Dictionary: An Illustrated Guide to American Domestic Architecture
1600-1940. Washington, D.C.: Preservation Press, 1985.
Poppeliers, John C., et. al. What Style Is It? A Guide to American Architecture. Washington,
D.C.: The Preservation Press, 1983.
Pulido, Esterina Samudio. 100 Alfos: Historia de La Primera Iglesia Bautista Mexicana de
Laredo, Texas, 1883-1983. Laredo, Texas
"Records: Church Cemetery Moved," Laredo Morning Times, February 21 , 1991. Webb County
Heritage Foundation research files.
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, Nina Nixon-Mendez (ed.) Laredo Legacies: A Tribute to
Our Past and a Legacy for Our Future, 1995.
Robinson, Willard B. "Colonial Ranch Architecture in the Spanish-Mexican Tradition,"
Southwestern Historical Quarterly, vol. 83, no. 2 (Oct. 1979), pp.123-150.
Rubin, Sidney. "The Azteca/Ranchero Neighborhood," Su Vida y Su Espiritu. Laredo: Webb
County Historical Commissi~n. December 1982, pp. 6-7.
30
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San Antonio Express. "Dirt Mounds, Remnant of Mcintosh, Monument to Past." Clippings file.
Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Collection.
Sanborn Map Company. Insurance Maps of Laredo. New York, 1885, 1900, 1925, 1931
corrected in 1941 .
Sanchez, Jose Maria. "A Trip to Texas 1828, by Jose Maria Sanchez," Southwestern Historical
Quarterly, April1926), pp. 249-288.
sanchez, Mario L. (ed.) A Shared Experience: The History, Architecture and Historic
Designations of the Lower Rio Grande Heritage Corridor, 2nd ed. Austin: los Caminos del Rio
Heritage Project and the Texas Historical Commission, 1994.
Shanks, Ann. "The Heights," Su Vida y Su Espiritu, pp. 8-11.
- - - - · Laredo Reflections. laredo: Uribe, 1985.
South Texas Citizen. Centennial Edition. May 13, 1955.
.
Survey. "C. M. MacDonell to laredo Ferry Company," March 30, 1876, by Hamilton C. Peterson,
City Surveyor of Laredo. Webb County Clerk's Office. (Shows 9 blocks around Main Plaza.)
Tarver, E.R. Laredo- The Gateway between the United States and Mexico. laredo: laredo
Daily Times, 1888. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajardo Collection.
Texas Historical Commission. "Preserving Cemeteries," Texas Preservation Guidelines. Austin,
March 1991 .
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Thompson, Jerry. Laredo A Pictorial History. NorfolkNirginia Beach: The Donning Co., 1986.
Second printing 1992.
- - - - -· Sabers on the Rio Grande. Austin, 1974.
Thompson, Jerry D. Warm Weather & Bad Whiskey: The 1886 Laredo Election Riot. El Paso:
Texas Western Press, 1991.
Tyson, Loni. "Coal Mined in Webb County," Laredo News, May 28, 1978.
Vlach, John M. The.Shotgun House: an African Architectural legacy," Pioneer America, v. 8,
Jan. 1976: pp. 47-56; July, pp. 57-70.
Warren, James E. Archeological, Historical, and Architectural Investigation of the Republic of the
Rio Grande Museum Building. George West, Texas: June 1986.
- - - - - -·· Archeological Investigations at San Augstin Catholic Church. George West:
May 1991 .
- - - - - - · Historical Archeology at Fort Mcintosh in Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Report No. 175, The Golf Driving Range Project. George West: 1988.
- - - - - - -· Historical Archeology at Fort Mcintosh in Laredo, Webb County, Texas.
Report No. 199. The laredo Junior College Allied Health Building Project. George West: August
1989.
----~-· Historical Archeology at Fort Mcintosh in Laredo, Webb County, Texas. The
Coke Street Drainage Project, Report No. 239. George West: 1991.
------:-::-----:~· San Agustin Catholic Church Inventory of Volumes in the Church Archives.
George West: September 1990.
- - - - - -·· The Texas-Israel Exchange Project Greenhouse Location, Report No. 180.
Laredo Junior College, Webb County, Texas. George West 1989.
31
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Webb County Historical Commission. Su Vida y Su Espiritu: Webb County Family Histories, vol.
I. Laredo: December, 1982.
Wilcox, Genevieve. "St: Peter's .Neighborhood, " Su Vida y Su Espiritu, pp. 4-5.
Wilcox, Seb S. "Laredo and Fort Mcintosh Furnish Much Colorful History," Naylor's Epic-Century,
September 1938, vol. 5, no. 8, pp. 7-9.
_ _ _ _..... Laredo history, from First Settlements to 1899. Manuscript copy from St. Mary's
University. Laredo Public Library, Luciano Guajuardo Historical Collection. n.d.
Williams, J.R. and M.D. Landon. National Register of Historic Places Inventory- Nomination
Form for Fort Mcintosh, Laredo, Texas, 1974. City Planning Department files.
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3. Historic Preservation Plan Goals and Objectives
3.1 Goals and Objectives
Goal I
To Identify & designate locally significant historic landmarks
Objectives
1.1 Establish priority designation list
1.2 Establish notable designation list
1.3 Update historic resources inventory
1.4 Computerize historic inventory
Goal II
To Identify & designate additional local historic districts and evaluate existing boundaries
Objectives
... \
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Adjust local historic district boundaries to include significant historic properties
Establish El Cuatro local historic district
Establish Fort Mcintosh local historic district
Establish El Azteca local historic district
Establish Old Heights local historic district
Goal Ill
To develop & periodically evaluate appropriate design standards for local historic districts
and locally significant historic landmarks
Objectives
3.1 Establish supplemental design review guidelines
3.2 Establish design review standards for in-fill development
3.3 Establish standards for demolition review
3.4 Integrate design review of all public projects located within local historic districts
Goal IV
To coordinate historic preservation with downtown revitalization efforts
33
Objectives
t~ ..
.... \
4.1 Identify & designate a conservation district which establishes standards at the perimeter of
local historic districts
4.2 Establish design review standards for in-fill development
4.3 Establish standards for demolition review
4.4 Integrate design review of all public projects located within the conservation district
4.5 Define the historic themes of the downtown area
GoaiV
To seek support for historic preservation through private and public Investment, Including
tax abatement.
Objectives
5.1 Secure approval of tax abatement for historic preservation activities from non-participating
jurisdictions
5.2 Secure public and private investment in improvements to historic properties
5.3 Conduct a feasibility study & establish a loan/grant program for facade rehabilitation of
commercial properties
5.4 Identify alternatives to demolition of endangered historic structures which can be made
available to property owners
·,
l
Goal VI
To promote the benefits of community support of historic preservation activities
Objectives
6.1 Establish a community outreach program to encourage awareness of historic resources
6.2 Capitalize on the appeal to tourists through walking tours, pamphlets distributed through the
Convention and Visitor's Bureau, and maps
6.3 Increase the number of National Register listings and Texas Recorded Historic landmarks
to 50
6.4 Provide direct services to homeowners seeking assistance with urban design, preservation
requirements and abatement procedures
Goal VII
To ensure preservation of historic grave sites at the City Cemetery
Objectives
7.1 Establish a preservation program for the City Cemetery
34
J
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3.2 HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN
Historic DistricULandmark
Board (HDLB)
1. 1 Establish priority
designation list
1996
HDLB
1.2 Establish notable
designation list
1996
HDLB
1.3 Update historic
resources inventory
$30,000
City
National Preservation Fund
2000
Planning Department
Historic Preservation Office
(HPO)
1.4 Computerize historic
inventory
$8,000
City
2000
Planning Department
HPO
2.1 Adjust local historic
district boundaries to
include significant historic
properties
1996
IHDLB
Planning Department
HPO
2.2 Establish El Cuatro
local historic district
1997
IHDLB
Planning Department
HPO
2.3 Establish Ft. Mcintosh
local historic district
1998
jHDLB
Planning Department
HPO
2.4 Establish El Azteca
local historic district
1999
IHDLB
Planning Department
HPO
Identify & designate
additional historic
districts and evaluate
existing boundaries
35
--
--
,-- -,
...
'\·-.
; I
_,:
i
3.2 HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN
Planning Department
HPO
3.1 Establish
supplemental design
review guidelines
$7,000
National Preservation Fund
City
1996
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
3.2 Establish design
review standards for
in-fill development
1996
3.3 Establish standards
for demolition review
1996
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
1996
3.4 Integrate design
review of all public
projects located within
local historic districts
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
36
/
\•
./
3.2 HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
4.1 Identify & designate a
conservation district
which establishes
standards at the
perimeter of local
historic districts
2000
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
4.2 Establish design
review standards for in-fill
development
2000
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
4.3 Establish standards for
demolition review
2000
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
4.4 Integrate design
review of all public
projects located within
the conservation district
2000
IHDLB
Planning Department
HPO
I
I
I
on-going
4.5 Define the historic
themes of the downtown
area
37
--
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
. ·'
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3.2 HISTORIC PRESERVATION ACTION PLAN
5.1 Secure approval of tax
abatement for historic
preservation activities from
non-participating
jurisdictions
1996
5.2 Secure public and
private investment in
improvements to historic
properties
5.3 Conduct a feasibility
study & establish a
loan/grant program for
facade rehabilitation of
commercial properties
$200,000
National Tax Credit
State Sales Tax Exemption
Private Foundations
Rehabilitation Loan
Program
on-going
National Preservation Fund
Private Foundations
Tax Assessment District
Webb County Heritage
Foundation mini-grants
2000
demolition of endangered
historic structures which
can be made available to
property owners
6. 1 Establish a community
DLB
County Heritage
Foundation (WCHF)
Webb County Historical
Commission(WCHC)
Community Development
Department
on-going
5.4 Identify alternatives to
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
Economic Development
Department
HDLB
WCHF
WCHC
on-going
outreach program to
encourage awareness of
Webb County
Archaeological Society
(WCAS)
historic resources
38
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3.2 HISTORIC PRESEkVATION ACTION PLAN
6.2 Capitalize on the
appeal to tourists through
walking tours, pamphlets
distributed through the
Convention and Visitor's
Bureau, and maps
6.3 Increase the number
of National Register
listings and Texas
Recorded Historic
Landmarks to 50
6.4 Provide direct
services to homeowners
seeking assistance with
urban design, preservation
requirements and
abatement procedures
National Trust for Historic
Preservation
National Preservation Fund
Private Foundations
$7,500
$5,000 (brochure or
workshops)
Webb County Heritage
Foundation
Webb County Historical
Commission
Azteca Eco. Dev. &
Preservation Corporation
National Preservation Fund
National Trust for Historic
Preservation
City of Laredo
Webb County Heritage
Foundaton
Webb County Historical
Commission
I
on-going
2015
on-going
To ensure preservation
historic grave sites at
City Cemetery
7.1 Establish a
preservation program for
the City Cemetery
IWCHF
WCHF
WCHC
Azteca Eco. Dev. &
Preservation Corporation
HDLB
Planning Department
HPO
WCHF
WCHC
Planning Department
HPO
$500
Webb County
Archaeological Society
39
2000
HOLB
Planning Department
HPO
WCAS
4. Laredo's Local Historic Districts
4.1 San Agustin Historic District
Receiving national designation in 1973 and local designation in 1974, San Agustin Historic
District is the oldest section of Laredo, founded by Tom~s Sanchez in 1755. In 1767, during the
Visits General by Juan Fernando de Palacios, the governor of Sierra Gorda, New Spain officially
designated the settlement as a villa and christened it San Agustin de Laredo, after a town in
Escandon's native Santander, Spain. A plaza mayor or central plaza was laid out, and porciones
or Spanish land grants were issued to heads of households.
During the Civil War, San Agustin Plaza, located on the Cotton Road, was the site where bales
of Confederate cotton were warehoused prior to delivery in Mexico. On March 19, 1864, at the
battle of laredo, Col. Santos Benavides with 42 men repelled a Union attack at Zacate creek to
prevent the cotton from being burned. More than 20 years later, one of the largest shoot--outs in
the history of the Old West was fought at this plaza. On April 7, 1886, a battle between two
political factions, the Botas and GOaraches erupted which left almost 30 dead. .
Directly east of the plaza is San Agustin Church. (Recorded Texas Historical Landmark)
One of the oldest congregations in Texas, the first church structure was ajaca/ (hut) present in
1767. Built of stone in 1778, the second church faced the river and was demolished in 1873. The
present Gothic Revival church, built of native stone, was started around 1866 and completed in
1872. In 1911, the front of the church received ·its present look. At this time the church served as
a cathedral under Bishop PeterVerdaguer. The 1922 four-faced clock made by the Seth Thomas
Company of Connecticut recently was restored. Just to the north of the church is Saint Augustine
Parochial School, built in 1927.
Several houses built by leading ranching families and prominent citizens remain on the plaza:
- La Conexi6n Bed and Breakfast (Learn - De La Garza home), 907 Zaragoza St - Built circa
1872, this two-story Mexican colonial home features a decorative bracketed cornice, massive
lintels, and a wrap-around porch. In the 1920s, the structure was the residence of William Learn,
and later in the 1950s, the home of Dr. Raul de Ia Garza.
- Casa Ortiz, 915 Zaragoza St. -This Mexican colonial home was built by Jose Reyes Ortiz, a
merchant and go-between for Mexico and Texas. Ortiz, a landowner from San Jose de Palafox
located just upriver from the town, was officially granted the land in 1826. The home was built in
1830, and the front portion and upper level were added in 1872. The spacious U-shaped home
has a large central courtyard. (Recorded Texas Historical Landmark)
- Republic of the Rio Grande Museum, 1005 Zaragoza St. - Constructed circa 1830 and
expanded in 1861 with additional rooms, the Mexican vernacular structure was the home of
Bartolome Garcia, a prominent rancher and alcalde of laredo. In 1840, it served as the Capitol of
the Republic of the Rio Grande according to community tradition. This ill-fated federalist revolt
lasted only 283 days, making Laredo and the surrounding area the only portion of Texas to have
served under seven flags. The flat roof and parapet extending above the roof line are
characteristic of Mexican architecture. Thick sandstone walls of adobe and lime mortar and
plastered with lime and tinted. The diamond relief on the front of the building may date to the
early 1900s. The majestic ceiling beams or vigas in the front room consist of one piece of wood
measuring 16 feet in length. The October 1861 date of this second addition is inscribed on a
ceiling beam in this room. Cypress lintels probably were brought to laredo by oxcart from
Northem Mexico. Serving as a historical museum since 1955, this structure was recently restored
40
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TELEPHONE EXCHANC£.
San Agustin Church
and the
Bruni-Cantu Building
Laredo the Gateway, 1889
by the Webb County Heritage Foundation with partial funding from the City of Laredo. (Recorded
Texas Historical Landmark)
- Bruni-Canru Building, 1101 Zaragoza St. -Built in late 1883-1884 as a residence on the land
of Refugio Garcia Garza, the Mexican structure with Victorian detail served as the first telephone
exchange that serviced both laredo and Nuevo laredo in the 1880s.
- Benavides-Vidaurri House, 202 Flores Avenue- Built circa 1874 for Colonel Santos
Benavides, the structure was·used as a U.S. Customs house, and later in 1883 as the residence
of Ulalio Benavides, half brother of the Colonel. Colonel Santos Benavides was the highest
ranking Mexican-American in the Confederate Army. He served as alcalde of Laredo, and was a
Texas legislator between 1879-1884. In 1907, it became the home of Tomasa Benavides
Vidaurri.
-Leyendecker House, 204 Flores Avenue- Built circa 1870 for John Z.leyendecker, the
Mexican style home has 30 inch thick sandstone walls and the original courtyard wall.
Leyendecker was a successful city merchant who served as postmaster of laredo.
-Mullaly House, 1016 Grant Sl- This late Victorian home was constructed circa 1901 of local
bricks, and was the residence of District Judge J.F. Munaly.
-Rodriguez House, 1012 Grant St.- Built circa 1880, the Mexican vernacular home was built for
Judge Jose Marla Rodriguez, Webb County Judge from 1878 -1913.
-Ramon House, 906 Grant St -The Mexican vernacular home was built circa 1825 for Jose
Marfa Ramon, and later additions were made to the home to accommodate the growing family.
\
The old laredo High School, now La Posada located is located at 1000 Zaragoza Sl
Constructed 1916-1917, the Spanish Colonial Revival building served as laredo's only high
school until1936, when it became Katherine Tarver Elementary School. Today it is an excellent
example of adaptive reuse with its rehabilitation as part of the La Posada Hotel complex in the
1960s.
4.2 Old Mercado Historic District
During the 1880s, the city of laredo began to expand northward from San Agustin Plaza. The
city grew northward along Flores Avenue, which became the business artery of the city. The
building of a new City Hall in 1883-1884 caused businesses, hotels, and restaurants to locate
north of the San Agustin Plaza area. The City Han area was known as El Mercado as its rear
portion housed stalls for vendors who offered all types of produce, foodstuffs, and other articles
for sale. City Hall, built of brick and stucco, was planned for three functions: a city han, a
performing arts theater, and a market hall. The structure was designed by W.Y. Tyndall, a
Galveston architect. The eclectic style of architecture combined design elements taken from a
number of traditional architectural styles. In 1905, the tall beautiful belfry was destroyed by a
tornado spawned from a hurricane. Throughout the years. various city departments as wen as the
public library were housed in the building. Today the building is home to the Laredo Center for the
Arts, which includes the offices of the Webb County Heritage Foundation. the Laredo Art league.
and Laredo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Several Mexican commercial style buildings erected around the tum-of-the century are the
Jose Angel Ortiz building, 1002 Hidalgo, constructed in 1904, and the Gonzalez/Trevirio Grocery,
517-519 San Agustin, constructed in 1875-1880, and the Trevino Wholesale Grocery, 501 San
Agustin, constructed in 1914. The Ortiz building, which housed a series of shops, features an
41
arcade or zagu~n through which carriages, and later cars, could pass. The Werner building,
constructed circa 1890, served as the Masonic Hall. The structure's cast iron store front was
made by Chris, Topher, and Simpson of St louis, Mo. Frederick Werner, a Gennan immigrant,
served as a blacksmith at Ft Mcintosh, and eventually purchased real estate in laredo.
The former Laredo National Bank, located on the southeast comer of Flores and lincoln
exhibits a Neo-Classical Revival style with Ionic columns and eagle emblems. Built in 1915-1916
as the third home of the laredo National Bank, this impressive building was designed by C.W.
Adams of San Antonio.
·
The John Valls building on the northwest comer of Flores and Hidalgo was constructed in
1927. Valls was Webb County District Attorney. The Art Deco structure with Spanish Colonial
Revival details housed La Bella Jardinera, a men's store and the Standard Furniture Co.
Constructed in 1933, the Central Drug Store's Art Deco building was the new home of the oldest
continuously operating drug store in Laredo.
The Plaza Theater, built in 1947, is an outstanding example of Art Modeme architecture, built
by H. B. Zachry construction company of laredo. At its inauguration, the Plaza was the most
luxurious theater in town. The interior featured a large balcony with a beautiful canvas mural
painted by laredo artist, Manuel Gutierrez. The theater was fully air conditioned and contained
2,400 feet of neon lighting. The Plaza is the only historic theater in laredo which is still relatively
intact.
}
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The Robert E. lee-Plaza Hotel (now laredo National Bank Plaza), located at the southwest
comer of Hidalgo and San Bernardo, exhibits Beaux Arts architecture with Spanish Colonial
Revival detail. Built in 1926, this structure served as the Robert E. lee Hotel from 1926-1940 and
as the Plaza Hotel from 1940-1979. One of laredo's first skyscrapers, the eight story hotel has
150 rooms and a roof garden. Considered one of the finest hotels in the state, the building was
equipped with a passenger elevator, vapor steam heat, running ice water, and a refrigeration
plant. The building was rehabilitated in 1981-1982 by The Laredo National Bank. (Recorded
Texas Landmark)
Other structures of merit are the little Building, constructed in 1917, the five story Kress
Building constructed in 1929, the Union Bank Building constructed in 1937, and Hachar's
Department Store Building constructed in 1942.
4.3 St. Peter's Historic District
Bounded by Santa Maria, the Texas-Mexican tracks, the Missouri Pacific tracks and Hidalgo
street on the south, the St. Peter's neighborhood developed between 1881 and World War I. The
neighborhood was named for Sl Peter's Church, on 1500 Matamoros, which was constructed in
1896-1897, by Heinrich (Enrique) Portscheller, a well-known Gennan builder and mason of south
Texas. It was laredo's second Catholic church and the first for English speakers. The St. Peter's
congregation established a school at 1607 Victoria in 1899, and the plaza became a recreational
area for the students. Another Catholic school, Mary Help of Christians, was established in a
Victorian Eastlake-style home at 1717 Houston Street by the Salesian Sisters. In addition to St.
Peter's Church, several Protestant and Jewish congregations located in the neighborhood. In the
early 20th century two public schools were located on Victoria Street.
There are many notable residences in the St. Peter's neighborhood. Outstanding examples of
Classical Revival are the Albert Martin House, built in 1926 at 1520 Houston St.; the Ed and Etta
Russell House, built in 1909, at 1820 Houston; August C. Richter House, built in 1906, at 1906
Houston; and the Peter Paul Leyendecker House (now Vidal M. Trevino Center), constructed
42
(:~~~
circa 1914 at 1714 Houston. Victorian Queen Anne/Eastlake-style homes include the Garcia
House at 1712 Matamoros, built in 1890; the J.M. McKnight House, circa 1891 , at 1503 Farragut;
the Volpe House, built circa 1890, at 1719 Houston; the John Murphy House, constructed circa
1890, at 1720 Houston; and the Joseph Deutz House, constructed circa 1900, at 1818
Matamoros. The recently rehabilitated Orfila House, located at 1701 Matamoros, is Victorian
ltalianate and features Corinthian columns and a hip roof with bracketed cornice and decorated
frieze. Local tradition asserts that the structure was modeled after the Creole houses of New
Or1eans. An outstanding Craftsman style home is the bungalow constructed circa 1895-1904,
owned by Miles T. Cogley who was president of the Texas-Mexican Railway in 1930.
Several of the homes and buildings in the St. Peter's Historic District recently have been
rehabilitated into classrooms and offices for the Vidal M. Trevil'\o School of Arts and
Communication, an arts magnet campus of the Laredo Independent School District.
4.4 Map of Local Historic Districts
\
43
CllY
OF
LAREDO
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
LAREDO:tTEXAS
PLANNING
DEPARTMENT
HISTORIC DISTRICTS
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5.Cultural Resource Surveys
Surveys of Laredo's historic and cultural resources have documented the importance of
historic sites in relation to local, state, and national history, as well as their potential for economic
revitalization of the downtown area. In 1978, a RegionaVUrban Design Assistance Team
recommended the preservation of the downtown grid and street system with emphasis on the
basic one to three story scale, the creation of a residential local district, and the designation of
local landmarks. Specific recommendations included establishing preservation incentives;
acquiring and using the Saint Augustine School building for a visitor's center; upgrading the
pedestrian thoroughfares to include street furniture and lighting to link Laredo's historic areas; and
the re-establishment of the Rio Grande and Zacata Creek and their open space connections as
integral parts of the city.
In 1981 , a downtown redevelopment plan was prepared for the City by Real Estate Research
Corporation Community Planners, Inc. Revitalization goals included beautifying the area and
capitalizing on tourist potential, enhancing the pedestrian environment for shoppers, and
encouraging reinvestment by local and absentee property owners. Specific recommendations
included revitalization of downtown plazas, street improvements and landscaping to create the
ambiance of a pedestrian mall; the adaptive reuse of City Hall, and the establishment of a Tourist
Information Center. In conjunction with an Urban Development Action Grant for redevelopment of
the Mercado district, Cavazos and Leyendecker conducted a historic survey and proposed urban
design guidelines.
That same year a comprehensive survey of historic sites by the Texas Historical Commission
was published. The details of this survey are described below.
5.1 Texas Historical Commission Survey
A cultural resource survey was conducted in 1980 by the Texas Historical Commission which
provided an initial inventory of historic sites in Laredo. The City of Laredo Cultural Resources
Survey was prepared for and financed by the Webb County Historical Commission, the South
Texas Development Council, and the Texas Historical Commission. The purpose of the project,
according to the report submitted by Ellen Beasley, Preservation Consultant, on October 1, 1981,
was to identify sites that may be of architectural and/or historical significance to their immediate
locale, the region, the state of Texas, and/or the nation. Results of the survey were to assist in
accomplishing the following: 1) locating potential properties and historic districts for nomination to
the National Register of Historic Places; 2) providing the information necessary to initiate work on
a local historic zoning ordinance of the City of Laredo; 3) expediting federally funded projects
through the inventory of sites possibly eligible for the National Register of for local historic
designation; 4) creating a basic planning tool for local, state, and federal agencies by identifying
sites of possible eligibility; and 5) alerting local officials to the value of incorporating historic
preservation into overall planning efforts in order to maintain and add to the housing stock, to
expand the tax base through renewed use of older facilities, and to stimulate local economies
through renovation projects and tourism.
Buildings included in the survey were those with exceptional or typical qualities of a particular
architectural style. a local interpretation of a particular architectural style, an association with
individuals or social groups, an association with specific events, and groupings of buildings that
may qualify as a historic district. The consultant cautioned that the survey should not be
interpreted as a complete cultural resource survey, due to its omission of buildings constructed
44
. --~-.-,
after 1930 and sites that may have historic rather than architectural value. Copies of the forms
were placed on file at the Texas Historical Commission and the Webb County Heritage
Foundation. A total of 554 sites were recorded in 1981.
Recommendations by Beasley were the establishment of a St. Peter's historic district including
the section south of Farragut. According to Beasley. "A large portion of the area west of Santa
Maria is eligible for the National Register." Secondly, Beasley recommended a local district for
the Central Business District, including "smaller, older buildings along the edges of the
downtown." Beasley commented that poor renovation methods had resulted in diminishing the
architectural and historical quality, and recommended a tax increment district, renovation
guidelines, workshops, incentives, and additional research to improve rehabilitation efforts.
Finally, Beasley determined the eligibility of each site for national, state, and local nomination.
Recommendations:
1. Due to gaps in the inventory and the omission of sites which date 1930 or later, this
inventory shall be periodically updated by the City of Laredo in conjunction with local and state
preservation organizations. A more intensive survey shall be conducted north of Moctezuma.
2. The presence of the 554 historic sites recorded by the Texas Historical Commission beyond
the current local historic district boundaries warrants the establishment of a conservation district to
protect the character of older neighborhoods.
5.2 1995 Historic Resource Mapping of Downtown Properties
'\
An aerial map of the downtown area which plots buildings 50 years old or older has been
developed to assist with preservation planning efforts. Historic sites on the Sanborn Fire
Insurance Company Map of 1931 corrected in 1940 were plotted. The data indicates groupings of
historic structures which were excluded from the local historic districts.
Recommendation:
Based on Historic Resource Mapping, it is recommended the boundaries of the Old Mercado
local historic district be adjusted to include all historic resources of local significance.
6. Proposed Adjustments to Local Historic District Boundaries
6.1 Extension of Old Mercado District (Map)
45
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7. Proposed Additional Local Historic Districts
An area to be considered for designation as a local historic district shall meet the following
criteria:
a. shall be a "registered" historic district; or
b. shall have documentation establishing its contribution to the historic and cultural heritage of
the City, or
c. shall have documentation establishing its archaeological or architectural significance; and
d. shall have documentation describing the need for such a district be created to assist in the
preservation of the City's history and cultural heritage and its relationship to the City's
Comprehensive plan; and
e. shall be endorsed in writing by the Webb County Historical Commission and the Webb
County Heritage Foundation.
7.1 El Cuatro Local Historic District
:I
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El Cuatro neighborhood contains late 19th century Mexican Vernacular and Late VICtorian
architecture associated with the development of the railroad and Fl Mcintosh. The
neighborhood's historical development is closely tied to the presence of African-American
soldiers stationed at the Fort and the establishment of the I.G.N. depot during the late 19th
century. Its proximity to the downtown commercial district and historic Fl Mcintosh positions El
Cuatrti as a prime candidate for neighborhood revitalization. The Texas Historical Commission
1981 Survey noted 38 structures of local importance, of which two were eligible for the National
Register. A small business strip along the 1500 block of Uncoln and lturbide has potential for
redevelopment A warehouse district at the 2000 block of Hidalgo has adaptive reuse potential
for studio apartments or student housing due to its close proximity to Laredo Community College.
The area adjacent to the arroyo at Grant and Santa Cleotilde offers space for a neighborhood
park. Threats to El Cuatro include piecemeal demolition, the deterioration of older housing stock,
inappropriate repairs, and incompatible in-fill development
(~)
7.2 Ft. Mcintosh Local Historic District
Fl Mcintosh was designated a National Historic District in 1975, and is a State Archaeological
Landmark. The home of Laredo Community College, the historical resources of Fl Mcintosh offer
a high degree of restoration potential. Through public and private funding, the rehabilitation of
buildings, addition of historic landscaping features such as pedestrian walkways and vintage
lighting, and interpretation through building markers, special events, and reenactments can be
achieved. The Late Victorian period barracks should be rehabilitated using the vivid green and
red exterior colors which are documented in circa 1900 postcards. A comprehensive plan for
historic rehabilitation should also include the conservation of Star Fort archaeological site and its
interpretation in relation to the Paso de Jacinto. The rehabilitation of Ft. Mcintosh would make an
outstanding contribution to downtown revitalization, collegiate life, and cultural tourism. As a local
historic distric~ coordination in fundraising, restoration program review, and in-fill development
review would be achieved.
7.2 El Azteca Local Historic District
.·
One hundred forty-one structures are considered eligible for the National Register in El Azteca
(Geo-Marine, Inc.). The historical development of the neighborhood from 1870 to 1940,
46
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frequency of Mexican vernacular architectural styles, and the outstanding integrity of the
streetscape make El Azteca a nationally significant resource. Piecemeal demolition, the
deterioration of the older housing stock and the decline of neighborhood business are the greatest
obstacles to the revitalization of El Azteca. Wrth local designation, property owners can make
application for local tax incentives for historic rehabilitation and the national tax credit for historic
rehabilitation through the city planning department. Local review of exterior changes to properties
can assist owners in determining appropriate rehabilitation techniques that will add value to the
properties. Coordination of historic rehabilitation with affordable housing programs, small
business development workshops, improvements to the parkway along Zacate Creek, community
policing, and the establishment of cultural and recreational programs for Azteca youth are critical
in the stabilization and growth of the barrio.
7.3 Old Heights Local Historic District
The Old Heights merits designation based on both historical and architectural characteristics.
The development of the upscale neighborhood was tied to the history of Laredo's electric railway.
This neighborhood includes many excellent examples of Craftsman. Prairie, and Spanish Colonial
Revival styles of architecture. As a local district, owners of historic property can make application
for local tax incentives for historic rehabilitation and the national tax credit for historic
rehabilitation. The greatest threats to the Heights are inappropriate repairs and additions to
historic structures which diminish their character and in-fill development which erodes the
historical fabric of the neighborhood. As a local district, review of exterior work and new additions
will ensure appropriateness of rehabilitation work. Review of in-fill construction will provide a
continuity of design in new development which compliments the historic area. Additionally,
consideration should be given to the restoration of the historic trolley route on Market Street to
revitalize the area.
47
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lAREDO
EL CUATRO
PLANNING
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8. Proposed Neighborhood Conservation District
8.1 Purpose
The purpose of a Neighborhood Conservation District is to stimulate the rehabilitation of
structures and all other elements contributing to the character of established residential
neighborhoods and commercial or industrial areas that are at least 50 years old. Specifically, the
goals of the Neighborhood Conservation District are:
*To facilitate maintenance and upgrading of the neighborhood;
*To encourage development of vacant and under used lots;
*To lessen the adverse effects of incompatible uses;
*To stabilize and improve property values; and
*To foster civic beauty and pride.
Criteria for the designation of neighborhood conservation districts are as follows:
* The area must be at least 50 years old; and,
*The area must include structures associated with a significant local, state, or national
historical event; or,
* The area must include structures associated with lives of people who have made a
significant historical contribution; or,
* The area must contain structures that embody distinctive architectural or archaeological
characteristics.
The Neighborhood Conservation District shall provide for review of in-fill development and
proposed demolition. New construction is invited or encouraged provided that emphasis is given
to the preservation and adaptive use of existing buildings and that the design of new space
enhances and contributes to the aesthetic character and function of the property and the
surrounding neighborhood or area. Contemporary design will be encouraged, provided that it is in
keeping with the above stated criteria, as an acknowledged fact of the continuing developmental
pattern of a dynamic, changing community. The Neighborhood Conservation District is designed
to prevent incompatible in-fill which undermines the historical and architectural integrity of
buildings and the neighborhood in general. A demolition review process of structures 50 years old
or older will ensure preservation of the neighborhood continuity and the consideration of adaptive
reuse options for older structures. The primary difference between the conservation zoning and
historic zoning is that exterior alterations are not regulated in conservation districts.
48
.r-
The Neighborhood Conservation District serves as a buffer zone between the historic
districts and the new development of the city. It is recognized as an area with historic resources
which should be dealt with in a sensitive manner. Due to the proximity of the proposed
Neighborhood Conservation District which is characterized chiefly by residential neighborhoods
with small neighborhood commercial districts, it has a direct economic relationship to the central
business district. As these consumers are serviced by our central business district, it Is
imperative to nurture and improve this economic relationship. Emphasis should be placed on
the rehabilitation of the housing stock, which dates from the earfy 20th century to pre-Wortd War
II and ranges in condition from good to poor. Since much of the housing stock is wood
construction, it can be readily rehabilitated.
The Neighborhood Conservation District can facilitate downtown revitalization efforts in
conjunction with preservation and new development. The Neighborhood Conservation District
can:
• Provide a public hearing and review of all capital improvements Impacting historic
downtown neighborhoods.
• Encourage the establishment of Neighborhood Associations, Downtown merchant groups,
and other not-for-profits to further the rehabilitation of historic downtown Laredo.
• Provide for citizen participation in improvements to infrastructure through options
such as public improvement districts.
• Provide recommendations concerning quality of life issues including parks, recreation
centers, plaza beautification, and access to cultural activities and special events.
• Encourage economic development of neighborhood business districts though programs
such as Main street programs, enterprise zones, and small business development
workshops. Ideal candidates include Market street, Santa Maria Avenue, San Bernardo
Avenue, downtown centering on Convent Avenue, Flores Avenue, and Zaragoza.
• Provide recommendations concerning downtown transit routes and the possible
re-establishment of historic trolley routes.
8.2 Neighborhood Conservation District (Map)
49
CITY
PROPOSED CONSERVATION DISTRICT
I
'
OF
LAREDO
PLANNING
DEPARTMENT
'
LEGEND
'
CONSERVATION DIST R ICT
EXISTING DISTRICTS
PROPOSED DISTRICTS
ADJUSTMENTS TO
OLD MERCADO
(
I
f?To---Gr onae - - · /
;
r
)1(
Scale in Feet
E""3
0
1000
E----1
2()(1()
3000
9. Locally Significant Historic Landmark Designations
9.1 Current Designations
Structures and sites considered for designation as locally significant historic landmarks shall meet
the following criteria:
a. shall be a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark or listed individually on the National Register of
Historic Places; or
b. shall have documentation establishing its archaeological or architectural significance; and
c. shall retain sufficient structural and architectural integrity to permit rehabilitation, restoration,
and/or preservation as determined by the Building Official; and
·
d. shall be endorsed in writing by the Webb County Historical Commission and the Webb County
Heritage Foundation.
To date, the following properties have been designated as locally significant historic landmarks:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Hamilton Hotel, 1989
Bruni Plaza, 1995
Jarvis Plaza, 1995
Old Central Fire Station, 1995
Old Heights Fire Station, 1995
San Bernardo Fire Station, 1995
Roberto Zutliga Home, 1995
Recommendations for landmark status are based on the 1981 Cultural Resource Survey and
the current historic site inventory. Two programs for designation include a priority listing and a
notable listing.
Priority designations are those structures which are considered especially fine examples of a
particular architectural style or construction technique, central in importance to the history of
Laredo, Texas, or the United States, and maintain most of its original material and design
features. These structures are considered unique and irreplaceable.
Notable designations are those structures which meet the criteria for designation as a locally
significant historic landmark, and are considered good examples of a particular architectural style
or construction technique, secondary in importance to the history of the community, and maintain
most of its original material and design features.
A third category of Endangered Properties allows for the identification of properties which are
subject to demolition by neglect, arson, vandalism and/or economic hardship. This list will
facilitate the securing of the structure by the Building Official to prevent further deterioration and
intervention by the historic preservation officer to provide information on preservation incentives
and methods.
50
9.2 PRIORITY DESIGNATIONS
Theme/
Building Type
Building Name
Address
Style
Age
Education/
Schools
Bruni Elementary
1508 San
Eduardo Ave.
Eclectic w/
Spanish Colonial
Influence
1927
C.M. MacDonell
Elementary
1620 Benavides
St
Eclectic
1930
.
116 Meadow Ave. Eclecticw/
Daiches
1929
Elementary
Spanish Colonial
(Montrose School)
Revival Influence
Grayson School
2214 lrtubide St
Shotgun House
circa 1931
Heights
Elementary
1208 Mar1<et St
Spanish Colonial
Revival
1923
L.J. Christen Jr.
High
1400 Pari< Sl
1931
Art Decow/
Spanish Colonial
Revival Influence
1937
Art Deco
Raymond & Tirza 2002 San
Martin High
Bernardo Ave.
School
St. Joseph's
2002 Marcella
Academy building Ave.
(Memorial Middle
School)
Santa Maria
School
Religion/
Churches
Eclecticw/
Spanish Colonial
Revival influence
3817 Santa Maria Eclectic
Ave.
1937
circa 1935
Ursuline Academy 1300 Galveston
ArtDecow/
1940
Spanish Colonial
Revival Influence
Dominguez
School
806 Houston
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
1916
Holy Redeemer
1602 Garcia
Gothic Revival
1909, enlarged
1933
Our Lady of
Guadalupe
Church
1718 San Jorge
Ave.
1922
Eclectic with
Spanish Colonial
Revival Influence
Primera Iglesia
1316 San
Bautista Mexicana Bernardo Ave.
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
St. Joseph's
Church
Spanish Colonial
Revival
1931
109 N. Meadow
51
Recreation &
oclal events/
Plazas
Bruni
bounded by
Moctezuma,
Washington, San
Bernardo, & San
Agustin
Art Deco fountain, circa
hemisphere, and 1885-1940
arches
Jarvis
bounded by
Convent, Juarez,
Farragut, &
Matamoros
Victorian
bandstand
Noria (Central
School)
Bounded by Santa Victorian
Ursula, San Dario,
Farragut, &
Matamoros
circa 1900
Hijos de Ju~rez
1120 San Agustin Mexican
commercial
1901
Boys Club of
Laredo
500 Moctezuma
Eclectic
1939
Elks Building
617 Salinas
20th century
commercial
circa 1900
Recreation &
oclal events I
Azteca Theater
315lincoln
Mexican
commercial
1922
ocal & Federal
Govemmentl
Governmental
Webb County
Courthouse
1000 Houston
Eclectic
1909
Courthouse Annex 1001 Houston
Beaux Arts
1916,
remodeled
1929
U.S. Post Office & 1300 Matamoros
Custom House
Classical Revival
1907,
remodeled
1930s
~.c-reation &
I events/
Fratemal.
BUlfdings
eaters·
circa 1885
BufldtDgs
Early Business/
Banks
Colonia
Guadalupe
Administrative
Building
NWcomerSan
Spanish Colonial
Francisco & Bruni Revival
Ct.
1940
Milmo Bank
Building
NWcorner
Salinas & lincoln
Beau Arts
1905
Milmo Bank
Building wings
N wing (Salinas
Ave), Wwing
(Lincoln St.)
Late Victorian
commercial
circa 1905
1208-1214 Block
of Matamoros
late Victorian
commercial
circa 1890
Early Businesses/ Southern Hotel
Hotels
52
St. Anthony Hotel SWcomer
Classical Revival circa 1910
and Annex
Salinas & Victoria
Building
Bender Hotel
1416 Matamoros
New Cactus
Courts Motel
(longhorn Motel)
4119 Santa Maria ArtModeme
Avenue
Tourist Court
1931
1200 Washington Late VICtorian
circa 1889
Texas-Mexican
shops
south of Lexington Mexican
& Guatemozin
Commercial
circa 1900
Librado Pet\a
Warehouse
(Tex-Mex)
700 Block
Guatemozin
Early Businesses{ Texas-Mexican
ransportation
Depot
Classical Revival circa 1910
Brick Commercial 1947
lturbide St. Bridge lturbide at Zacate Art Deco Rail
1928
Franz Heins, City
Creek
Engineer
Conoco Filling
Station
1020 Matamoros
Art Deco
circa 1931
Filling Station
301 Market St.
Art Deco
circa 1930
Gonzalez Auto
Parts
(Jewett-Moore
Auto)
1100 Washington Spanish Colonial
Revival
1924
Sames-Moore
Building
SE cor of Salinas Early 20th
and Matamoros
Century
Commercial
1926
Commercial
Building
2016-20 Hidalgo
circa 1900
Commercial
Building
710 Santa Ursula 2 story Mexican
Commercial
circa 1910
Former Produce
Warehouse
1120 Santa
Ursula
Mexican
Commercial
circa 1910
Former Aztec Art
nle Warehouse
NWcomerof
lturbide & Eagle
Pass
Mexican
Commercial
circa 1925
Brennan & Co.
Warehouse
2200 Block of
Scott
Mexican
Commercial
circa 1900
Warehouse
2404 Gonzalez
Mexican
Commercial
circa 1900
Montemayor
Warehouse
SE comer of
lturbide & Eagle
Pass
Mexican
Commercial
circa1925
I.G.N. Section
House
International RR
Bridge
Late Victorian
circa 1890
53
Victorian
Commercial
Armando Garza
Warehouse
ne comer Market Mexican
at Tex-Mex tracks Commercial
circa 1920
1220 lturbide
Early 20th
Century
Commercial
circa 1900
Commercial
Building
SEComer
Houston &
Convent
Early 20th
Century
Commercial
circa 1915
Commercial
Building
SWComer
Houston &
Convent
Early 20th
Century
Commercial
circa 1915
Farragut
NEComer
Department Sore Farragut&
Convent
Art Deco
circa 1930
San Francisco
Club
2320 San
Francisco
Mexican
Commercial
circa
1910-1930
Castano de Leon
warehouse
301 Cortez
Mexican
Commercial
circa 1890
Commercial
building
303 Cortez
Mexican
commercial
circa 1900
Martinez Grocery 502 Hidalgo
Store
Mexican Brick
Commercial
circa 1890
Chapa Store
20 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Commercial
circa 1900
La Amistad
Barberia
1041turbide
Early Brick
Commercial
circa 1900
CantU Building
111 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Commercial
circa 1900
R. Garcia Feed
Store
301 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Commercial
circa 1900
Orchers Bakery
SW cor Lincoln & Mexican Brick
Santa Maria
Commercial
circa 1915
Early Businesses/ Commercial
General
Building
100 Block Market 2 story Mexican circa 1910
Brick Commercial
circa 1910
J.C. Martin Home SE comer of
ltalianate
Washington &
San Agustin
Commercial
Building
Communiity Life/
Residences
F.R. Canseco
Home
1417 Chihuahua
Second
Renaissance
Revival
circa 1922
Residence
2103 Aldama
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1930
Residence
2202 Aldama
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1930
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Carlos Menchaca 302 Farragut
Home
54
Carlos Varela
Home
506 Farragut
Classical Revival circa 1900
Residence
1402 Fremont
Spanish Colonial
Revival
Quadraplex
112-20 Galveston Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1517 Garcia
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
2020 Garfield
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Raul Casso Sr.
Residence
1019 Guadalupe
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
1202 Guadalupe
Mission Revival
with Art Deco
Influence
circa 1920
Residence
2105 Guatemozin Richardsonian
Romanesque
circa 1930
Residence
2119 Guatemozin Tudor
circa 1930
Residence
2120 Guatemozin Early 20th
Century
Vernacular
circa 1930
Cottage
2318 Guatemozin Mission Revival
circa 1930
Puig Residence
620 Hidalgo
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Ruiz Residence
605 Hidalgo
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence/
commercial
201 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Ramon Residence 412 lturbide
late Victorian
circa 1900
circa 1900
circa 1920
Residence
1420 lturbide
Brick Vernacular
Residence
15181turbide
Stone Vernacular circa 1870
Residence
1609 lturbide
Stone Vernacular circa 1870
Residence
1620 lturbide
Late Victorian
circa 1880
Residence
1615 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1870
Residence
1616 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1870
Residence
1713 Lincoln
Creole style
cottage
circa 1900
Residence
1720 Lincoln
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1802-1804 Lincoln Stone Vernacular circa 1870
Residence
1806 Lincoln
Stone Vernacular circa 1870
Residence
919 Victoria
Late Victorian
55
circa 1890
Residence
107 Market
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
601 Market
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
710 Market
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
919 Market
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1006 Market
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1003 Market
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1008 Market
Spanish Colonial circa 1920
Revival
Residence
1014 Market
Stone Vernacular circa 1900
Residence
1019 Market
Vernacular
circa 1910
Alfonso Zuftiga
Residence
1101 Market
ltalianate
circa 1925
Residence
1120 Market
Vernacular
circa 1910
Volpe Residence
1219 Market
Neo-Classical
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
1318 Market
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1420 Market
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1614 Market
Craftsman
circa 1900
Annstrong
Residence
1706 Market
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
1320 McClelland
Moorish Revival
1931
Residence
1620 McClelland
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1102 Mier
Spanish Colonial circa 1920
Revival
Residence
1401 Mier
Vernacular
56
circa 1920
9.3 Notable Designations
Community Life/
Residences
Residence
1004 Callaghan
Eclectic
circa 1910
Residence
1704 Callaghan
Late Victorian
cottage
circa 1890
Residence
1818 Callaghan
Brick vernacular
circa 1910
Row houses
411-417
Callaghan
Mexican
vernacular
circa 1925
Residence
2002 Chacon
Craftsman
circa 1935
Residence
2009 Chacon
Craftsman
circa 1935
Residence
2015 Chacon
Craftsman
circa 1935
Residence
2017 Chacon
Craftsman
circa 1935
Residence
2020 Chacon
Craftsman
circa 1935
Residence
806 Chihuahua
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1001 Chihuahua
Craftsman
circa 1910
Residence
1319 Chihuahua
Craftsman
circa 1910
Residence
1602 Convent
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
3602 Convent
Mexican
vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1910 Corpus
Christi
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
702 Corpus
Christi
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
207 Cortez
Late Victorian
circa 1895
Residence
301 Cortez
Brick Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
303 Cortez
Brick Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
601 Cortez
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
909 Cortez
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1925
Residence
1015 Cortez
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1018 Cortez
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1020 Cortez
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1201 Cortez
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
1720 Cortez
Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
SW cor Cortez &
Seymour
Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
804 Cortez
Victorian
circa 1890
57
Residence
1201 Cortez
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
1701 Cortez
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1720 Cortez
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
413 Davis
Victorian
transitional
circa 1895
Residence
515 Davis
Mexican Stone
vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
518 Davis
Mexican Brick
vernacular
circa 1907
Residence
1319 Davis
Brick vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
110-112 Farragut Late Victorian
circa 1910
Residence
206 Farragut
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
210 Farragut
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
216 Farragut
late Victorian
circa 1905
Residence
219 Farragut
late Victorian
circa 1910
Residence
220 Farragut
Brick vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
319 Farragut
Mexican Brick
vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
420 Farragut
late Victorian
circa 1910
Residence
519 Farragut
Craftsman
circa 1910
Residence
1501 Flores
Mexican
vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1505 Flores
Mexican
vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1520 Flores
Vernacular
circa 1915
Residence
602-604 Garcia
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1517 Garcia
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
214 Grant
Frame Vernacular circa 1910
Residence
320 Grant
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
406 Grant
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
401 Grant
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence/
Commercial (2
buildings)
402 Grant
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
415 Grant
Shotgun House
circa 1900
Residence
419 Grant
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
420 Grant
Mexican stone
Vernacular
circa 1890
58
Residence
1215 Grant
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1301 Grant
Mexican Brick
Vemacular
circa 1900
Residence
1308 Grant
Mexican Adobe
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1316 Grant
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
217 Guatemozin
Late VICtorian
circa 1900
Residence
704 Guatemozin
VICtorian
Transitional
circa 1900
Residence
708 Guatemozin
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
712 Guatemozin
Spanish Colonial circa 1920
Revival
Residence
719 Guatemozin
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
810 Guatemozin
VICtorian
Transitional
circa 1910
Residence
907 Guatemozin
Wood Vernacular circa 1910
Residence
911 Guatemozin
Wood Vernacular circa 1910
Residence
1315 Guatemozin Victorian
Transitional
circa 1910
Residence
Residence
1317 Guatemozin Craftsman
1319 Guatemozin Craftsman
circa 1915
circa 1915
Residence
1402 Guatemozin Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1405 Guatemozin Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1915
Residence
1419 Guatemozin Wood
Vernancular
circa 1915
Residence
1519 Guatemozin Victorian
Transitional
circa 1910
Residence
1609 Guatemozin Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1702 Guatemozin Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1706 Guatemozin Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
112 Guadalupe
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
807 Guadalupe
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
1019 Guadalupe
Spanish Colonial circa 1920
Revival
Residence
1202 Guadalupe
Eclectic
Residence
1503 Guadalupe Craftsman with
Tudor Influence
59
circa 1920
circa 1920
Apartment
Building
1602 Guadalupe
Brick Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
206 Hidalgo
Vernacular
circa 1920
Apartment building 207-209 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
302 Hidalgo
Queen Anne
circa 1890
Residence
612 Hidalgo
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
614 Hidalgo
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
618 Hidalgo
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
508 Hidalgo
Late VICtorian
circa 1890
Residence
602 Hidalgo
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
609 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1412 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1420 Hidalgo
Brick Vernacular
circa 1890
Trevino
Residence
1416 Hidalgo
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
310 Houston
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Apartment
Building
402-12 Houston
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
607 Houston
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
619 Houston
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
112 lturbide
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1880
Residence
200 lturbide
Four Square
circa 1905
Residence
214-216 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
304 lturbide
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
311 lturbide
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence/
Commercial
317-3191turbide
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
419 lturbide
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Puig Residence
506 lturbide
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1220 Juarez
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1910
60
Residence
1516 Juarez
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1518 Juarez
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1520 Juarez
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1501 Juarez
late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
1317 Juarez
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1320 Juarez
Late VICtorian
Transitional
circa 1900
Residence
11lane
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
1402 Lane
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1930
Residence
2210 Lane
Eclectic
circa 1920
Residence
2101 Lane
Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
2201 Lane
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1920
Residence
1102 Laredo
Eclectic
circa 1920
Residence
119 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Rocha Residence 206 Lincoln
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
208 Lincoln
Shotgun House
circa 1910
Residence
211 Lincoln
Brick vernacular
circa 1908
Residence
216 Lincoln
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
301-303 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
319 Lincoln
Brick vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
320 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
401 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
504 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
SW Cor Lincoln & Brick Vernacular
San Francisco
circa 1910
Residence
509lincoln
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
511 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
516 ·Lincoln
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
515 Lincoln
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
518-520 Lincoln
Brick Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1004 Lexington
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
R~sidence
918 Logan
Craftsman
circa 1910
Residence
1008-1010 Loring Late Victorian
\'
,...
61
circa 1900
Residence
1312 Main
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
1402 Main
Brick Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1604 Main
Brick Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
202 Matamoros
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
207 Matamoros
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
219 Matamoros
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
218 Matamoros
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
308 Matamoros
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
404 Matamoros
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
501 Matamoros
Craftsman
circa 1920
Residence
505 Matamoros
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
516 Matamoros
late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
602 Matamoros
Art Deco
circa 1920
Residence
604 Matamoros
Late VICtorian
circa 1890
Residence
612 Matamoros
late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
620 Matamoros
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
119 Musser
Eclectic
circa 1910
Residence
2121Musser
Moderne
circa 1920
Residence
509 Rosario
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
. Residence
520 Rosario
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1402 Salinas
late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
1214 Salinas
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1620 Salinas
Brick Vernacular
circa 1620
Residence
1114 San Agustin Wood vernacular circa 1900
Residence
1307 San Agustin Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1502 San Agustin Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1508 San Agustin Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1510 San Agustin Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1819 San Agustin Vernacular
circa 1890
Residence
1420 San
Bernardo
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1720 Santa
Cleotilde
Vernacular
circa 1910
·-
62
'.'
'·
Residence
1311-15 San
Eduardo
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1818 San
Francisco
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
1616-18 San
Francisco
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
1320 San
Francisco
Brick Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
1119 San
Francisco
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
1419 San Jorge
Brick Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
NE cor San Jorge Mexican
&Coke
Vernacular
circa 1920
Residence
1307 San Jorge
circa 1920
Residence
1420 Santa Marfa late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
1618 Santa Marfa Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
1911 Santa Marfa Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1915
Residence
307 San Pablo
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1905
Residence
301 San Pablo
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
308 San Pablo
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
308 San Pablo
Brick Vernacular
circa
Residence
918 Scott
Residence
1704 Scott
Late Victorian
circa 1890
Residence
1420 Seymour
Eclectic
circa 1920
2100 Seymour
Eclectic
circa 1930
Residence
2304 Springfield
Craftsman
circa 1910
Residence
19Ventura
Vernacular
circa 1915
Residence
102 Water
Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
120Water
Late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
2020Willow
Spanish Colonial
Revival
circa 1935
Residence
109 Zaragoza
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
114 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
120 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
302 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
305 Zaragoza
Late Victorian
circa 1910
Residence
Brick Vernacular
. Craftsman
63
circa 1915
Commercial
Residence
306 Zaragoza
Vernacular
circa 1910
Residence
320 Zaragoza
late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
403 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Residence
402 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular
circa 1870
Residence
411 Zaragoza
Craftsman
circa 1915
Residence
412 Zaragoza
late Victorian
circa 1900
Residence
420 Zaragoza
late Victorian
circa 1910
Residence
8 Zaragoza
Vernacular
circa 1920
Commercial
402 Farragut
late Victorian
circa 1900
Commercial
303 Fremont
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
Commercial
1901 Flores St
Mexican
Vernacular
circa 1900
Commercial
112 Guadalupe
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1910
Commercial
408 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Commercial
1319 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Commercial
1320 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick
Vernacular
circa 1900
Commercial
118 lturbide
late Victorian
circa 1890
Commercial
307 lturbide
Brick Commercial circa 1900
Commercial
320 lturbide
Brick Commercial circa 1920
Commercial
NE Cor lturbide & Brick Vernacular
San Francisco
circa 1900
Martinez Grocery SWComer
lexington &
Garfield
Brick Vernacular
circa 1900
Martinez Barber
Shop
419 Matamoros
Mexican Stone
Vernacular
circa 1890
Salazar Building
420 Matamoros
Commercial
circa 1900
A. Gonzalez
Grocery
Brick Commercial circa 1920
NWcorSan
Eduardo & Garza
Daniel Flores
Grocery
SEcor Meadow & Brick Commercial circa 1920
Wooster
Eclectic
circa 1920
Emesto Sanchez 419 Meadow
Grocery
64
9.4 Endangered Historic Properties
!Azteca Theater
309 Lincoln
Mexican Vernacular, 1922
First Christian Church building 1601 Victoria
Gothic, 1910
Grayson school
2214 lturbide
One Room Board & Batten School
House, circa 1931
Carriage House/Stables, Fort
Mcintosh
West side of campus behind
print shop
Brick Vernacular. circa 1880
Star Fort, Fort Mcintosh
North section of campus
Earthen Fort, circa 1850
Commissary Building, Fort
Mcintosh
North section of campus
Stone Vernacular. circa 1875
!Warehouses
North section of campus
circa 1942
Salinas Home
805 Lincoln
ltalianate, circa 1906
Benavides-Herrera Home
802 Grant
Mexican Stone & Brick Vernacular,
circa 1879
Gallegos Home
2020 Sanders
Two Story Mexican Stone Vernacular
with Classical Revival Influence,
stables/carriage house, circa 1880
St. James Tabernacle
1913 Hidalgo
Board and Batten Church Building,
circa 1931
Saint Augustine Parochial
School
215 San Agustin Avenue
Three story public building, auditorium,
1927
Conoco Filling Station
1018 Matamoros
Art Deco, circa 1931
Commercial Buildings
N. 2000 Block Hidalgo
Three buildings, Mexican Commercial
circa 1890
Residence
1620 lturbide
Two story Mexican Vernacular
Residence, circa 1890
Commercial Building
410 Zaragoza
Brick Vernacular, circa 1900
Commercial/Residential
402~04
Mexican Brick Commercial with Stone
Residence, circa 1880
CommerciaVResidential
400 Zaragoza
Mexican Stone Vernacular
Commercial with Residence, circa
1880
Residence
200 Matamoros
Mexican Stone Vernacular, circa 1880
Residence
418 Grant
Mexican Stone Vernacular, circa1880
Martinez Grocery Building
500 Hidalgo
Mexican Brick Vernacular, circa 1890
Residence
420 Grant
Mexican Stone Vernacular, circa 1880
Montemayor Home
810 Zaragoza
ltalianate, circa 1925
Residence
1202 Guadalupe
Mission Revival. circa 1920
Bender Hotel
1416 Matamoros
Classical Revival, circa 1910
St. Anthony Hotel & Annex
920 Salinas
Classical Revival. circa 1910
Victoria
65
10. Urban Design Standards
------ ~
---
~------ -- --- ------
10.1 Design Review Standards for Local Historic Districts
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for
Rehabilitating Historic Buildings, revised in 1990, serves as the design standards for review
by the Historic District/Landmark Board for existing structures in the Local Historic Districts.
These standards shall be applied to specific rehabilitation projects in a reasonable manner,
taking into consideration economic and technical-feasibility.
(a) A property shall be used for its historic purpose or be placed In a new use that requires
minimal change to the defining characteristics of the building and its site and environment.
(b) The historic character of a property shall be retained and preserved. The removal of
historic materials or alteration of features and spaces that characterize a property shall be
avoided.
(c) Each property shall be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, and use.
Changes that create a false sense of historical development, such as adding conjectural features
or architectural elements from other buildings, shall not be undertaken.
(d) Most properties change over time; those changes that have acquired historic significance
in their own right shall be retained and preserved.
(e) Distinctive features, finishes, and construction techniques or examples of craftsmanship
that characterize a historic property shall be preserved.
(f) Deteriorated historic features shall be repaired rather than replaced. Where the severity
of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive feature, the new feature shall match the old
in design, color, texture, and other visual qualities and, where possible, materials. Replacement .
of mission features shall be substantiated by documentary, physical, or pictorial evidence.
(g) Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause damage to historic
materials shall not be used. The surface cleaning of structures, if appropriate, shall be
undertaken using the gentlest means possible.
(h) Significant archaeological resources affected by a project shall be protected and
preserved . If such resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures shall be undertaken.
(i) New additions, exterior alterations. or related new construction shall not destroy historic
materials that characterize the property. The new work shall be differentiated from the old and
shall be compatible with the massing, size, scale, and architectural features to protect the
historic integrity of the property and environment.
0> New additions and adjacent or related new construction shall be undertaken in such a
manner that if removed in the future. the essential form and integrity of the historic property and
its environment would be unimpaired.
66
10.2 Supplemental Design Standards for Local Historic Districts
Since the Secretary of the Interior's Standards do not address local economies and in-fill
development, supplemental design guidelines are warranted to identify the character defining
features of the city's historic resources to determine which elements should be preserved in order
to retain the historic character of its neighborhoods. Design standards serve to inform owners of
appropriate designs and rehabilitation techniques. Filtering out inappropriate repairs, local design
standards enhance the economic and historical value of the historic properties while allowing
flexibility to accommodate creative solutions (Cox). Further investigation is necessary to analyze
the variety of local architecture and landscapes to delineate a matrix of essential characters and
recommend appropriate design solutions without stifling creativity. The Historic District/Landmark
Board recently approved a historic color palette (a). Items (b)-(f) are recommendations for future
consideration.
(a) Colors. Any change of exterior colors shall be a documented historical color or selected from
the historical color palette approved by the Historic District/Landmark Board. The Historic Color
Palette offers a selection of over 300 documented historic colors.
Historical Color Palette
Sherwin Williams Preservation Palette
Sherwin Williams Heritage Colors Collection II
Benjamin Moore 100 Years of Exterior Colors
Benjamin Moore Historical Color Collection
:I
Jones Blair Ear1y American Colors
Sherwin Williams Custom Colors
(only for Mexican Vernacular}
Jones Blair House & Trim Colors
(only for Mexican Vernacular)
(b) Fences. Fences shall be constructed and maintained in a vertical position. Fences shall be
metal or plastic coated chain link, wrought iron, tubular steel, wooden, brick, or stuccoed concrete
block. Only wrought iron fences and picket fences shall be permitted in the front yard, and shall
not exceed 4 ft. in height. Exposed concrete blocks are not permitted. Metal and wrought iron
fences must be compatible with the style, period, and color of a main building. Wooden fences
may be painted or stained a color that is complementary to a main building. The stde of a wooden
fence facing a public street must be the finished side.
(c) Burglar bars. Only decorative, wrought iron burglar bars are allowed. Bars mounted on the
interior of windows may be requested by the Board in the case that they detract from character
defining features of the building . Burglar bars must be a color compatible with the color of a main
building.
(d) Windows. Clear, decorative stained, and clear leaded glass typical of the style and period of
the building may be permitted in any window opening. In generaj, reflective, tinted. opaque. and
mirrored glass and plastic are not permitted. Translucent glass is not permitted except in a
bathroom window. Light gray tinted glass is only permitted on storefronts in the historic CBO.
Window frames shall be typical of the period. In the case of replacement of modern storefront
frames. acceptable materials are painted metal; bronze anodized aluminum: or painted, stained.
or varnished wood .
67
(e) Awnings. All awnings must be typical of the style and period of the building and compliment
its color scheme. No awning may obscure character defining features of a building which include
but are not limited to lintels, cornices, patterned brick, and decorative cast or metal elements.
Acceptable materials for awnings are woven acrylic mounted on wrought iron frames, Spanish
clay tile, standing seam metal, finished wood, beaded board, and composite shingles imitating
wooden shingles.
(f) Signs.
Signs shall be placed at the pedestrian level and may be placed on the following locations: 1)
storefront doors and display windows, 2) the support beam (fascia board) separating the upper
and lower facade, 3) the upper facade, between the support beam and second floor windows, 4)
the upper facade between second floor windows and cornices, and 5) on the canopy itself or on a
small piece of board suspended beneath the canopy. Signs may be painted directly on the
building, painted on doors or windows, or applied to a sign board which is attached to the upper
facade or awning/canopy, or painted on fabric awnings. No sign shall be: 1) mounted on the
fascia of an awning, 2) placed on the side or rear of a building not fronting a public street, 3)
attached in such a manner which obscures a character-defining feature of a building, or 4)
located other than the storefront portion of the building.
All signs shall be: 1) of an appropriate size and scale for the building, 2) color coordinated with
the rest of the building, and a simple color scheme limited to three colors, 3) readable with simple
lettering style, and 4) constructed of a durable material.
Signs for Historic Buildings: Signs on historic buildings shall be of traditional materials such as:
painted and carved wooden signs; painted wall signs; raised letter signs of finished wood, painted
metal, painted aluminum, or cast stone; painted awning signs; bronze or aluminum plaques; or
stone or stuccoed monument signs. Blade signs shall not be permitted on historic buildings. The
restoration of historic signs is encouraged.
Signs for Modem Buildings: Signs on modem buildings may be of the traditional materials listed
above, or of modem materials such as plastic or plastic-lettered signs, neon signs, back-lit signs,
or die-cut metal signs with back lighting.
Lettering Styles for
Historic Building
Signs•
Times Roman
Universal
.
..
.
~. l ':~
Clarendon
*Serif letters of the above styles are permitted.
68
:(
10.3
DESIGN STANDARDS FOR IN-FILL DEVELOPMENT
Design standards for in-fill development should not dictate styles. Rather, they should
emphasize context and design elements to allow the broadest and most flexible interpretation for
new construction. New buildings and accessory buildings should not imitate past architectural
styles; they should reflect the era of their own construction. Since construction in historic areas
has usually taken place continuously from the later nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, a
variety of building types and styles result, which demonstrates the changes in building tastes and
technology over the years. New buildings should continue this tradition while complementing
and being compatible with other buildings in the area. Below are recommended standards for
in-fill development. These basic standards allow for a modem design which does not disrupt the
continuity of the historic district.
(a) Height. New buildings shall be constructed to the same number of stories and to the height
that Is compatible with the height of adjacent buildings.
(b) Width. New buildings shall r~flect the characteristic rhythm of facades along the street.
When a definite rhythm along a street is established by uniform lot and building width, In-fill
development should maintain the rhythm.
(c) Proportion. The overall proportions of existing buildings shall be noted and respected. New
construction shall have a lot coverage similar to that of existing buildings.
"\\
(d) Setback. Structures with a similar pattern of setback or alignment contribute to the strength
and continuity of the blockscape. The setback from the front and side yard property established
by adjacent buildings must be maintained.
(e) Directional expression. The facade of a new building should be related to the vertical or
horizontal expression of nearby buildings.
(f) Roof forms. The type of roof selected shall be similar to those found on adjacent buildings.
(g) Entries. The entries of new buildings should relate to the styles of porches, porticos, and
other features of nearby buildings.
(h) Proportion of openings. The size and proportion of window and door openings should be
similar to those on surrounding facades.
(i) Relationship of materials, texture, details, and material color. The relationship and use of
a new building's public facades shall be visually compatible with and similar to those of adjacent
buildings or shall not contrast conspicuously. Preferred materials include stucco, natural brick,
painted brick, and painted wood and clapboard. Exposed concrete block, metal and plastic
siding , glazed brick, and Portland cement and fiberglass mixtures are not recommended.
(j) Colors. The exterior colors chosen for new construction in local historic districts shall be in
accordance with the City of Laredo's Historic District/Landmark Board's Historic Color Palette.
(k) Storefronts. Uniform storefronts shall be maintained in a blockscape.
(I) Awnings. All awning s in local historic districts shall be compatible with historic awnings
styles.
69
\ '
(m) Landscaping. New construction shall comply with the landscaping ordinance. Any
landscape treatment shall serve to unify the streetscape and enhance building design.
Cohesiveness can be created through similar usage of vegetative massing, front steps,
walkways, fences and other landscape details. Landscaping with traditional and drought resistant
plants is recommended. No more than 25 percent of the front yard of traditional residential
architecture may be covered by pavement or filler materials such as gravel and bark.
(n) Driveways and sidewalks. Any material used in a driveway or sidewalk must be compatible
in texture, color, and style with a main building. Materials recommended for private sidewalks
and driveways include finished concrete, brick, tile, or slate. Circular driveways are not permitted
in the front yard of traditionally residential architecture.
(o) Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design. CPTEO is a design strategy which
combines proper design with the effective use of the physical environment to produce behavioral
effects that will reduce the incidence and fear of crime. The review of potential design problems
shall be based on the following criteria:
* Clear border definition of controlled space.
* Clearly marked transitional zones that indicate movement from public to semi-public to
semi-private to private space.
* Natural surveillance and access control.
* Natural baniers to prevent conflicting activities.
*Scheduling of space which allows for effective use and appropriate "critical intensity."
* Overcome distance and isolation through improved communication and design efficiencies.
(p) Design Review Checklist
70
Design Review Checklist
\I
Building Element
Appropriate
Requires
Modification
Siting of Building
1. Setback
2. Facade width
3. Spacing between
buildings
Delineation of Street
Space
1. Creation of
continuous street edge
2. Separation of
public, semi-public, &
private area
3. Fences
Garage Placement
Landscape Pral1tlngs
Site 1-:nprovemenls
1. Walkways
2. Driveways
3. Retaining Walls
Proportion (building
size)
1. Height
2. Facade proportions
3. Scale
Massing (building
shape)
1. Form
2. Roof shape
3. Directional
expression
4. Placement of
addition
Roof
1. Shape
2. Pitch
3. Overhang
4. Dormers
5. Chimneys
71
Comments
,.
!W indows
!1.
Type
·2. Shape
;3. Rhythm
4. Exterior treatment
Doorways
1. Type
2. Placement
Exterior Architectural
Elements
1. Steps
2. Porches
3. Awnings
4. Exterior Stairs &
Decks
Materials
1. Wall surface
2. Foundation
3. Roof
Trim & Misc. Details
1. Decorative Trim
2. Gutters
3. Roof ornaments
4. Hood molds
5. Cornices/Parapets
6. Quoins
7. Brackets
CPTEO
1. Site lighting
2. Entrances/Access
points
3. Visual Barriers
4. Vegetation
5. Boundaries
Colors
72
10.4 DEMOLITION
I'
The demolition of historically or architecturally significant buildings represents much more
than simply the loss of a building. It is also the loss of an important link to the past. Demolition
results in an unattractive gap in a grouping of structures, detracting from the historic streetscape.
Increasingly communities provide complete protection against demolition of significant
historic structures, unless the owner can demonstrate economic hardship. Generally the
standard for economic hardship follows the constitutional standard for regulatory taking which
provides that a property owner must establish that he or she will be denied all reasonable
beneficial use of the property. In other words, the property owner does not have a right to the
most profitable use of the property. Additionally, the most successful regulations require that
demolition requests include future plans for the site in order to prevent vacant lots.
(a) Recommended Criteria for review of Demolition requests.
* Physical Condition of Building - Structural Report from Certified Engineer or Architect.
* Documents showing cost estimate for Restoration/Rehabilitation.
* Documents Proving Economic Hardship Preventing Rehabilitation.
*Written Proof of previous attempts to secure property to prevent vandalism , including
methods, and dates.
* Presentation of architectural plans for new construction/improvements to property.
* Cost Estimate for Demolition and Proof of Financing.
*Permission for City Building Inspector to enter property.
* Photographs of site and adjacent properties.
* Written statement that no federal funds are being used for the demolition or new use of the
property.
• Statement of future use.
(b) Condition Report Form for Inspection of Proposed Demolition
73
Inspection of Proposed Demolition
Condition Report Fonn
Main Building
Components
Specific
conditions
(circle)
Good
Fair, can be
replaced or
repaired
ROOF
1. Asphalt
shingles
bubbles, cracking,
edgeswom,
lumpy, missing
2. Flat roof
bubbles,
separation, or
cracking
3. Tile roof
missing/broken
rusty, loose,
4. Flashing
around chimneys missing
& valleys
II
~\
5. Chimneys
cracked masonry
6. Flues
lining
7. Gutters
loose, rotted,
missing
8. Ridge
sagging
9. Cornice
rot/peeling paint
Exterior Walls
1. Walls
out-of-plumb,
bulges
2. Doors
not lined up
squarely
3. Decorative
woodwork
not firmly attached
4. Paint
peeling, curling,
blistering
5. Door frames
open joints
6. Window glass
broken, putty is
deteriorated
7. Masonry walls
horizontal cracks
8. Mortar
soft, crumbly
9. Painted
masonry
paint peeling
10. Stonework
spalling, cracks,
missing chips
11. Clapboards
loose, cracked ,
missing
12. Shingles
weathered
!Tennltes & Rot
74
Poor, cannot be
replaced or
repaired
1. Walls
veins of dirt or
tunnels
2. Wood
wood near ground
does not pass pen
knife test
3. Wood
exterior wood is
not6-8inches
above ground
~- Cornice
5. Attic
signs of rot
.,
•.\
~ttlc
1. Roof
2. Venting
signs of rot
..
sign of leaks
not vented
properly
•.
mterior
.
:
...
1. Plaster
dampness,
peeling
2. Staircase
bounce, gaps
3. Floors
sag or tilt,
vibration
~-Windows
frames rotted
5. Fireplaces
norH>perational
Foundation
1. Mortar
soft, crumbling
2. Wall
vertical cracks
3. Ground
does not slope
away from
foundation
Electrical
~stem
1. Main power
box
at least 100 amp
2. Outlets
one outlet on
each wall
3. Underwiring
signs of surface
mounted
extension wiring
Plumbing
1. Pipes
copper/brass
galvanized iron
pvc
75
lead (soft & silvery
when scratched
wl pen knife)
2. Septic tank
Heating system
1. Hot water
heating tank
rusting or leaks
2. Steam heat
systems
floor boards
around radiators
show signs of rot
or stains
Comments:
76
11. Archaeological Resources
11.1 Summary of Archaeological Research
A majority of archaeological investigations in the City of Laredo has been conducted to comply
with federal and state preservation law. A small number of sites have been documented by
avocational archaeologists. Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966,
requires that all federal agency heads consider the effects of their actions on historic and
archaeological sites that are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The NHPA
requires any activity that obtains a federal permit or license, uses federal funds, or is otherwise
assisted or approved by the U.S. government to comply with Section 106. Additionally, the
Antiquities Code of Texas of 1969 provides for the protection of archaeological sites on public
land. The Antiquities Code of Texas requires that the Texas Historical Commission staff review
any action that has the potential to disturb archaeological and historic sites on public land owned
by the state or a state political sub-division, such as a city or county.
Historical archaeological investigations have centered around Ft Mcintosh, the old Mexican
Catholic Cemetery (McReynolds, 1981), s·an Agustin Church (Warren, 1990, 1991) and the
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum (Warren, 1986 ). Expansion of the laredo Community
College at the site of Fl Mcintosh has required archaeological survey of proposed construction
sites including athletic facilities, parking lots, building sites, pipelines, landscaping and brush
control. Most of these projects were small in scope and preliminary in nature. Cultural evidence
documented by the resulting reports includes artifacts dating from the 1840s to the mid 20th
century, foundations, floors, and other remains of fort structures (Medlin, 1977a, 1977b; Fox,
1978, 1979; Ivy, Medlin, Eaton, 1977; Briggs, 1982; Warren, 1988, 1989, 1991; and Houk, Fox,
Cox, & Warren, 1995).
Other investigations have been conducted by the Texas State Department of Highways and
Public Transportation. Clark and Juarez (1986) excavated a four block area of downtown Laredo
which produced data on a 120 year span of Mexican-American neighborhood occupation,
including changes in architectural and construction methods, levels of acculturation, technology,
activities, settlement patterns, migration patterns, and lifeways. Significant information on
ceramics, particularly Mexican lead-glazed and tin-glazed ceramics of the late nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries, was reported. McGraw (pending) reported on prehistoric occupations
located at the Columbia Bridge site.
11.2 Archaeological Potential and Recommendations
According to the Texas Archaeological Survey at the University of Texas at Austin, there are
106 archaeological sites recorded in Laredo. Most of the sites date to the Archaic and Prehistoric
periods ranging from sparse lithic scatters to extensive occupation areas. Additionally. two burials
have been documented at terraces on the Rio Grande. Several of these sites have potential for
inclusion to the National Register of Historic Places and the State Archaeological Landmark
listing. The pattern of these sites indicates a high potential for prehistoric sites at terraces on the
Rio Grande, creek beds, and drainages.
Below is a summary of the types of sites that may occur in South Texas (Hester):
77
1. Occupation sites are small or large areas that are characterized by a display of occupation
refuse . They mostly occur along river and creek banks and terraces and can be surface exposed
or buried in terrace beds. Artifacts and features found at occupation sites include hearths, burned
rock middens, and other evidence of food processing.
2. Workshop sites and quarries are generally found on high stream terraces overlooking rivers
and creeks. Debris includes cobbles, broken cores, and flakes.
3. Kill sites are butcher sites characterized by animal remains and food processing tools.
4. Isolated finds and caches may be evidence of temporary sites during nomadic migrations.
Caches may contain a cluster of flint blades.
5. Isolated burials and cemeteries. Isolated burials are characteristic of the Archaic period.
Late Prehistoric cemeteries have been documented along the South Texas coastal area. Two
recorded burials have been discovered in Laredo. One was an isolated skeleton which was
eroding out of a river terrace. The other burial was discovered also along the Rio Grande.
6. Rock art sites - One rock art site has been documented in Webb County (41 WB56). It is a
13 foot long polychrome panel on the back wall of a sandstone overhang consisting of broad, red
and yellow zigzag designs.
7. Rock shelters are campsites that occur in overhangs and caves.
Types of artifacts found in the South Texas region are:
1. Chipped stone tools - projective points, knives, perforators, scrapers, gravers and burins,
gouges ("Clear Fork" tools), choppers, and cores.
2. Ground stone tools - manos, metates, pipe bowls, boatstones (sinkers), and ornaments.
3. Bone tools and adornment - awls, beads, needles, and pressure flaking tools.
4. River mussel implements (shell) - pendants, scrapers, and scoops.
5. Pottery - bone tempered pottery that is brown, reddish brown, or pink dating to the Late
Prehistoric Period.
6. Exotics - black chert and obsidian from Mexico; MesoAmerican spindle whorls of clay.
Recommendations
Goal: To comply with federal, state, and local preservation laws governing
archaeological resources
Tasks:
1. All City Departments shall report to the Historic District/Landmark Board on any actions
that may affect any sites within the local historic and conservation districts, and any
Recorded Texas Historic Landmark, National Register Property, or Archaeological Landmark
within the vicinity of the city, prior to initiation of the project (Section 24-1.2.2(6)) of the Laredo
Land Development Code).
2. Prior to development of any city owned property subject to the provisions of Chapter 41 of the
Texas Antiquities Codes, the Historic Preservation Officer shall conduct archival research on the
potential for cultural resources at the site and submit a report to the Texas Historical Commission.
If any archaeological or historical materials are encountered during the course of site
development, work shall be stopped and the Historic Preservation Officer, or a professional
archaeologist, shall be called on to report findings to the Texas Historical Commission. A
professional archaeologist shall hold a graduate degree in anthropology with a specialization in
archaeology or closely related area of study plus at least four months of demonstrable field
experience; and at least one year of full-time demonstrable experience at a supervisory level in
research administration, or management; and demonstrated ability to carry research to
completion. (Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualifications Standards).
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11.3 Historic Cemeteries
Cemeteries are among the most valuable of archaeological resources, providing information
about historic events, religions, lifestyles, and genealogy. Historic grave sites with intricately
carved monuments serve as directories of early residents. Tombstone designs represent a
variety of artistic styles that helped shape the history of laredo and Webb County.
11.3.1 Cemetery Preservation Laws
Historic cemeteries that are publicly owned by a state or political subdivision of the state (i.e.
counties, cities, utility districts, etc.) are protected as archaeological deposits under the Antiquities
Code of Texas (Title 9, chapter 191 of the Texas Natural Resources Code of 1977). Headstones
associated with interments may also be protected, either as part of archaeological deposits or as
separate architectural features associated with the site as a whole. According to the Code, no
such deposits may be ''taken, altered, damaged, salvaged, or excavated without a construct or
permit" from the Texas Antiquities Committee. Cemeteries on public land can be officially
designated as State Archaeological landmarks.
For perpetual care cemeteries, Section 711.035(f) of the Health and Safety Code, states that
once property is dedicated for cemetery use, it cannot be used for any other purpose unless the
dedication is removed by a district court or the cemetery is enjoined or abated as a nuisance. In
the case of abandonment, the fact that the remains of the dead buried in a cemetery have not
been removed and that tombstones mark the places of burial is sufficient to show that the
cemetery has not been abandoned. Any county commissioners court may create a trust fund for
the maintenance of neglected public and private cemeteries in the county, and the county may
use public funds, county employees, and county equipment for the maintenance of cemeteries for
purposes of historic preservation and protection of the public health, safety, and welfare. It Is a
Class A misdemeanor for intentionally or knowingly desecrating a place of burial.
11.3.2 Laredo's Historic Cemeteries
laredo's first campo santo was located at San Agustin Church during the Spanish period. In
1849, a new cemetery which measured 60 square varas was laid out seventy five paces
northwest of the town (the present Jarvis Plaza area). This new cemetery was surrounded by a
stone fence and had a water reservoir. Twenty seven years later, Father M. Souchon, blessed
another cemetery, bounded by Scott, Moctezuma, San Francisco, and San Eduardo (the present
Boy's Club site), which became known as the Mexican Catholic Cemetery. A fourth cemetery was
located in the Sl Peter's Church yard.
The City Cemetery was established by ordinance on February 2, 1893. Originally, the
cemetery was bounded on the north by Saunders, south by locust. east by Buena VISta, and
west by Stone. The section situated west of Meadow Avenue was dedicated to the use of the
Catholic Church at that time. The 1893 ordinance authorized the subdivision and sale of parcels
of land into family, individual, and other such burial lots, and to establish carriage driveways and
walks for pedestrians. Additionally, a potter's field was established for the burial of the indigent
poor.
Several private sections were established for perpetual care purposes at the City Cemetery by
fraternal organizations and church co·ngregations soon after the City Cemetery's founding in 1893.
Several plots were conveyed to mutualistas. or mutual societies. Mutualistas were fraternal
societies esfablished in the late nineteenth century that promoted Mexican and American patriotic
activities, civic pride, and offered burial insurance for their members. The cemetery plots for the
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Socieded de Obreros and the Caballeros de Honor lodge No. 141 were conveyed on July 9, 1900
for the sum of $1 . On April22, 1910, another plot was deeded to the Sociedad Hijos de Juarez.
Several chapters of national fraternal organizations organized in the late nineteenth century .
Many beautiful monuments are located in the section conveyed to Woodmen of the World, Camp
Ahuehuete No. 2364, on June 4, 1909. Other plots were deeded to the Knights of Pythias, Aztec
lodge No. 111, on November 20, 1893; Masonic Lodge No. 547 on February 6, 1896 and
October 3, 1901; the Master Workmen of Laredo Lodge No. 120 on February 7, 1897; the
Improved Order of Redmen, Yaqui Tribe No. 59 on July 2, 1898; the Order of Railway
Conductors, Division No. 399 on September 20, 1913; and the Independent Order of Oddfellows,
Rio Grande Lodge No. 363 on October 22, 1914. Also the Elks Lodge and the Mexican Masons
requested burial plots around this time.
In 1894, the Ladies Guild of Christ Church Episcopal was assigned a plot in City Cemetery,
Three years later, on March 10, 1897, Christ Church Episcopal was deeded a plot located near
the Main gate of the City Cemetery along Meadow Avenue. This deed was granted to Reverend
J. Ward, rector of Christ Church Episcopal, for the Bishop and Standing Committee of the
Missionary District ofWestem, Texas.
One of the most picturesque areas of the City Cemetery is the Jewish section, established
shortly after the City Cemetery's founding. Enclosed by an ornate wrought iron fence, the
manicured green lawn and large shade trees provide a serene resting place for many of Laredo's
prominent citizens.
.-
Two veterans sections are located in the City Cemetery. These plots have been designated
for the exclusive use for burial of the armed forces of the United States who have served their
country and are residents of the city or county. The original veterans plot dedicated by city
ordinance on September 19, 1974, is located at the northwest comer of the cemetery. A second
section located south of the cemetery office was dedicated on May 28, 1989. Other historic
sections of the City Cemetery were reserved for the burial of infants, Laredo's African-Americans,
and the residents of Mirando City.
Grave decoration and funerary art at the City Cemetery are reflective of Mexican-American
traditions. A variety of art forms abound: relicaritos, or miniature shrines; glass covered nichos;
shell ornamentation; cement crucifixes with hand carved inscriptions; and urns adorned with
pottery shards, tile fragments, and marbles (Jordan, 1982).
11.3.3 City Cemetery Preservation Plan
Goal: To preserve and protect the historic sections and grave sites (50 years old or older) of
the City Cemetery.
Objectives and Sub-Tasks:
1. Identify and protect the cemetery's historical resources
1.1 Provide a complete survey of the City Cemetery designating all boundaries. and the
location of all private sections
1.2 Identify the features of the site including entrances, fences, plot enclosures, vegetation,
roads and walkways, retaining walls, buildings, and open spaces
1.3 Initiate the inventory and condition assessment of historic grave markers
1.4 Initiate the location of historic grave sites by non-intrusive, remote sensing
technologies such as ground-penetrating radar, color infrared aerial photography,
thermal resistivity, or thermal infrared-multispectral scanning
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2. Ensure preservation and crime prevention through environmental design
2. 1 Provide for a security fence and additional lighting to deter criminal elements
2.2 Comply with the Antiquities Code of Texas on any proposed improvements affecting
the historic sections and historic grave sites
2.3 Initiate legal action to gain title to abandoned private sections to ensure preservation
and maintenance of these sections in the Mure
2.4 To upgrade landscape maintenance utilizing organic methods that are non-threatening
to the markers
3. Establish educational and community awareness programs to promote the preservation of
the cemetery
3.1 Schedule an annual community clean-up day at the cemetery
3.2 Involve community groups and youth groups in the historic grave marker survey
81
SECTION 2416
HISTORIC DISTRICT SPECIFIC USE OVERLAY DISTRICT
Section 24.66.1 . Historic district purpose
The purpose of the historic district specific use zoning overlay district is to establish regulations which
will safeguard the historic, archaeological, architectural and cultural resources of the city, promoting
preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of those resources or ensuring the compatibility of new
construction within designated historic districts. The requirements of this district are in addition to the
requirements of the underlying zoning district.
Section 24.66.2. Creating historic districts
1. Authority. Pursuant to Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 211, Municipal Zoning Authority as
amended, municipal governments are given authorization for historic preservation.
The City Council of the City of Laredo is authorized to create, define, amend or eliminate historic districts
subject to the provisions of this code. Such districts shall bear the word "historic" in the zoning
designation as a supplemental zoning designation, property therein shall continue to bear its use
designations by letter and number as provided in the zoning ordinance of the city (e.g. H-B-3, H-RO,
H-B-1, etc.). (Three historic districts have been designated: San Agustin de Laredo, Old Mercado, and
St. Peter's). Before making any such designation, the City Council shall receive a report and
recommendation from the Historic Districtllandmark Board as established herein, through the Planning
and Zoning Commission, which shall recommend for or against such as zoning designation according to
the procedures presently used to consider other zoning designations or changes.
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2. Requirements for creation. Areas within the city limits of Laredo to be grouped together as a historic
district shall meet the following criteria:
(1) a. shall be a "registered" historic district; or
b. shall have documentation establishing its contribution to the historic and cultural heritage
of the City, or
c. shall have documentation establishing its archaeological or architectural significance;
and
d. shall have documentation describing the need for such a district to be created to assist in
the preservation of the City's history and cultural heritage and its relationship to the City's
Comprehensive Plan.
e. shall be endorsed in writing by the Webb County Historical Commission and the Webb
County Heritage Foundation.
(2) A public hearing shall be held to receive testimony for and against the creation of such a
District.
Section 24.66.3. Designating locally significant historic landmarks
1. Authority. The Historic District/Landmark Board is authorized to designate individual sites and
structures as locally significant historic landmarks subject to the provisions of this code.
A1
2. Requirements for designation. Structures and sites considered for designation as locally significant
historic landmarks shall meet the following criteria:
(1) a. shall be a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark or listed individually on the National
Register of Historic Places; or
b. shall have documentation establishing its contribution to the historic and cultural heritage of
the city, or
c. shall have documentation establishing its archaeological or architectural significance; and
d. shall retain sufficient structural and architectural integrity to permit rehabilitation, restoration
and or preservation as determined by the Building Official; and
e. shall be endorsed in writing by the Webb County Historical Commission and the Webb
County Heritage Foundation.
(2) A public hearing shall be held to receive testimony for and against the designation of any
structure or site.
(3) The Board shall make finding concerning the following which shall be entered in the minutes of
the meeting:
a. The site or structure meets the requirements for local designation established in this section,
and that a public hearing(s) was held in conformance with this chapter; and
/
b. The designation as a locally significant historic landmark is necessary to assist In the
preservation of the City's historic and cultural heritage; and
c. The designation conforms with the purposes and intent of the City's Comprehensive Plan.
(4) The designation of any structure or site as a locally significant historic landmark may be appealed
to City Council within six months of such designation, subject to such procedures as the Council
shall establish. Following a public hearing, the Council shall make a final determination
concerning the designation.
3. Procedural Requirements. An application for designation as a locally significant historic landmark
shall be submitted to the City Department of Planning on a form approved by the Board, and shall
contain the following information:
(1) a. the name, address and telephone number of the individual or entity seeking designation.
b. the location and address of the property to be designated.
c. the name, address and telephone number of -the owner of the property
if different from that of the applicant.
d. documentation substantiating the historical, cultural, architectural, or archaeological
significance of the property.
e. letters of endorsement from the Webb County Historical Commission and the Webb County
Heritage Foundation.
(2) Upon receipt of an application, the Building Official or his designee shall inspect the property,
and shall prepare a report concerning the structural and architectural integrity of any structure
nominated. This report is to be presented to the Board at the public hearing and noted in the
official minutes.
(3) The Board shall consider the application at its next regular meeting, and may request additional
information as may be required .
Section 24.66.4. Provisions relating to historic districts and locally significant historic landma~
1. No permit shall be issued for the alteration, construction or demolition of any structure located in a
historic district or for any locally significant historic landmark without the approval of the Historic
DistricVLandmark Board, provided, however, that immediate demolition may be ordered by the Building
Official for any structure in imminent danger of collapse which in the opinion of the Building Official
represents a significant threat to the public safety.
2. No permit shall be issued for the installation of any sign or monument in the historic district without
the prior approval of the Historic District/Landmark Board.
Section 24.66.5. Procedural Requirements for Review of plans by Historic District/Landmark Board
1. Contents of application
f
(1) Every application or review involving alterations and/or additions to existing structures in a
Historic district, or locally significant historic landmarks, or the erection of any new structure
within a historic district shall be accompanied by drawings and submitted for approval by the
Historic District/ Landmark Board. For the-proposed alteration, addition or changes and for new
construction, plans and exterior elevations shall be drawn to scale and shall include proposed
materials, textures, and colors,and site layout, including parking lots, fences, walls, walks,
terraces, plantings, accessory buildings, signs, lights and other elements.
(2) The applicant shall submit with the application legible photographs of all sides of the building
under consideration and photographs showing contiguous properties.
(3) Applications shall be filed with the Historic Preservation Officer before meeting with the Historic
District/Landmark Board not less than twenty days prior to a regularty scheduled
meeting of the board.
2. In review of applications, the Historic District/Landmark Board shall seek outside expertise in the fields
of history, architecture, architectural history, or archaeology, when a professional is not represented on
the Board and an action considered is normally evaluated by a professional in such disciplines.
Section 24.66.6 Miscellaneous provisions. Parking Regulations
1. The Building Official upon written application and good cause shown may waive twenty five (25%)
percent of the off street parking requirements in those cases which involve the rehabilitation, restoration,
or preservation of a structure in a historic district or a locally significant historic landmar1t
Section 24.66.7. Violations; Penalties
Any person(s), firm or corporation violating any provision of this ordinance shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor, and each shall be deemed guilty of a separate offense for each day or portion thereof
during which any violation hereof is committed, continued or permitted, and upon conviction any such
violation shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1 ,000) for each day that the
violation exists.
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SECTION 24-84
(
AD VALOREM TAX EXEMPTIONS FOR CERTIFIED HISTORIC REHABILITATION PROJECTS
I
Section 24.84.1. Definitions. As used in this section, the following words and phrases are specifically
defined:
o Historic Property • shall mean a building or structure which has been designated as a locally
significant historic landmark by the Historic District/Landmark Board, or which contributes to the
significance of a historic district, or which has been designated as a Recorded Texas Landmark by the
Texas Historical Commission, or which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, or which is
identified as a contributing property in a National Register Historic District.
o Certification - shall mean certification by the Historic District/Landmark Board that the property is a
'Historic Property' as defined in this section; that tax relief is necessary for the rehabilitation of the
property; and that the plans for rehabilitation conform to the standards for historic preservation adopted
by the Board.
o Applicant - shall mean the owner or designated agent of an owner seeking exemption from the
payment of ad valorem taxes for the rehabilitation of a historic property.
o Certified Historic Rehabilitation Project - shall mean a certified project whose application for tax
exemption for historic rehabilitation has been approved by the City Council.
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o Certified Rehabilitation Expenditures • shall mean any expenditures incurred in connection with the
rehabilitation of a Certified Historic Rehabilitation Project that are proper1y chargeable to a capital
account.
These expenditures do not include:
a) costs of acquiring the building or any interest therein.
b) enlargement costs which expand the total volume of the existing building. Interior
remodeling which increases floor space is not considered enlargement.
c) new building construction costs.
o
City Council • shall mean the City Council of the City of Laredo.
o
Board - shall mean the Historic District/Landmark Board of the City of Laredo.
• Non-residential structure - shall mean any structure to be used for non-residential purposes following
rehabilitation, including industrial, commercial, or rental residential uses.
Rehabilitation - shall mean the act or process of upgrading an older building both structurally and
mechanically while preserving its unique historic, architectural or cultural significance.
o
o Residential structure - shall mean a structure to be used following rehabilitation for a single family
residence by the owner.
o Structure· shall mean a building, edifice, dwelling unit or other construction which is permanently
affixed to the land and which is composed of discrete elements.
o Substantial Rehabilitation • shall mean the repair or restoration to standards established by the Board
whose value is not less than 50% of the value of the improvements to the property as established by the
Webb County Central Appraisal District on the date that application for historic property tax relief is
made.
oTax Assessor/Collector- shall mean the Tax Assessor/Collector of the City of Laredo.
Section 24.84.2. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to encourage the preservation of the city's historic properties. These tax
exemptions apply only to city property taxes and not to taxes owing to other taxing entities. Nothing in
this ordinance relieves a person from the responsibility to apply each year to the Chief Appraiser of the
Webb County Central Appraisal District for an exemption pursuant to the requirements of the Texas
Property Tax Code.
Section 24.84.3. Application.
The owner or designated agent of a historic property may make sworn application to the Board on a fonn
approved by the city containing the following information:
a. The name, address and telephone number of the applicant.
b. The legal description and physical address of the property.
/
c . Information which establishes its eligibility for historic property tax exemption. In the event
that the property seeks designation by the Board as a locally significant Historical Landmark
or has been nominated as a Texas Historic L,andmark, for the National Register of Histone
Places, or as a contributing structure in a National Register Historic District, applicant shall
submit documentation of such application for designation or nomination.
d. Plans and specifications detailing the proposed substantial rehabilitation.
e. Estimates of Certified Rehabilitation Expenditures with a statement that the cost of the
proposed rehabilitation exceeds the value of existing improvements on the property by fifty
percent (50o/o).
f. Tax certificates indicating that all taxes have been paid.
g. A notarized affidavit indicating the need for tax relief and a statement concerning the
proposed use of the structure.
Section 24.84.4. Review by the Board.
1. The Board shall review the application for conformance with the adopted standards for Historic
Preservation, and may request changes or alterations in the plans. The Board shall consider the
following:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
The adherence to adopted design standards; and
The requirement for substantial rehabilitation; and
Proposed post rehabilitation use; and
The need for tax relief for historic rehabilitation; and
Conformance with the Comprehensive Plan.
If the Board finds that the application complies with the requirements of this chapter, the Board shall,
following a public hearing, designate the proposed restoration as a Certified Historic Rehabilitation
Project.
2. The Board shall submit its findings to the City Council with a recommendation for the granting of tax
relief.
Section 24.84.5. Review by the Council.
1. The Council shall review the recommendation of the Board concerning the proposed project, and if it
determines, following notice and hearing, that the project is eligible for tax relief, and that the best
interests of the citizens of the City of laredo would be served by granting tax relief, Council st)all certify
the project, granting tax relief as follows:
a. A residential structure shall be exempt from the payment of ad valorem taxes on the
increased value accruing to the property following rehabilitation for a period of eight (8)
years following the issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the ~y's Building Official.
Transfer of ownership shall not cause the exemption to be revoked except as otherwise
provided.
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b. The applicant owner of a non-residential structure shall be exempt from the payment of any
ad valorem tax on the land and improvements which are an integral part of the Certified
Historic Rehabilitation Project for a period of four (4) years following the issuance of a
certificate of occupancy by the city's Building Official. Upon written application by the owner,
an additional exemption on the enhanced value of the property following rehabilitation may
be granted for a period not to exceed four (4) years. Transfer of ownership shall cause the
exemption to lapse on the last day of the tax year in which the transfer occurs, unless the
transfer of ownership is effected through devise or descent, or conveyed with a historic
easement which qualifies as a charitable contribution under Section 170(f)(3) of the Internal
Revenue Code.
c. The exemption shall be effective on January 1 of the year following the date on which
the Certificate of Occupancy was issued.
d. The Council, upon the recommendation of the Board, may grant partial certification for
projects which will be completed in phases because of the scale or complexity of the
proposed restoration.
2. Certified Historic Rehabilitation Projects which have been granted tax relief shall be issued a
Certificate of Occupancy by the Building Official within twenty-four (24) months following the effective
date of the ordinance granting such relief. Projects failing to meet this deadline shall be ineligible for the
exemption of ad valorem taxes, unless an application for an extension of time is filed in writing with the
City Secretary prior to the expiration of the 24 month period. Council may approve an extension of time
not to exceed twelve (12) months.
3. The applicant owner shall present the Certificate of Occupancy, the Historic District/Landmai'X
Board's order indicating the property is a Certified Historic Rehabilitation Project, and a letter from the
Historic Preservation Officer verifying actual Certified Rehabilitation Expenditures and compliance with
rehabilitation plans to the City of laredo Tax Assessor/Collector to initiate the tax exemption process.
The applicant owner shall present proof of application for exemption from the Webb County Appraisal
District to the City of Laredo Tax Assessor/Collector on an annual basis to receive the tax exemption.
Section 24.84.6. Administration
1. The Historic Preservation Officer shall conduct an annual inspection to determine whether the
property has been maintained in accordance with the approved preservation standards. If the property
has deteriorated, been demolished or destroyed, or been modified or altered in a manner which has
compromised its historical, architectural or cultural value, the Historic Preservation Officer shall notify
the owner. the Historic District/Landmark Board, the Tax Assessor/Collector and the City Manager of his
findings. The Historic District/Landmark Board shall consider the findings of the Historic Preservation
Officer, and, following notice and hearing, act to revoke the exemption.
3. The owner may appeal the revocation of exemption to the Council upon written application filed within
sixty days, stating the reasons why the exemption should not be revoked.
Section 24.84.7. Recapture.
1. Tax receipts and tax certificates for Certified Historic Rehabilitation Projects shall be clear1y marked
"Historic Property- subject to recapture of additional taxes under Section 24.84.7 . of the Laredo Land
Development Code.•
2. Each year during which the property is granted tax relief, the Tax Assessor/Collector shall note the
valuation which would have been made and the taxes which would have been due had the property not
qualified for tax relief under this section.
3. If the exemption is revoked because the property was damaged or destroyed, or if taxes become
delinquent, the property shall be subject to payment of all taxes. penalty and interest which would have
been paid, absent the granting of an exemption under this section, which additional taxes shall be a lien
on the property."
FUNDING SOURCES FOtt HISTORIC PRESERVATION
SOURCE
TYPE
DES~RIPTION
CONTACT
National Preservation Fund
mlllching grants up to $5000 to CLGs
plennlng, aurveya, feeelbUy atudleo, lechnologlcal
lntennodal Surface Transportation
Efficiency Act
matching grants to local governments
hlslorlc praeervallon and archaeology asaoclllted wMh
lnonaportallon
T&lUll Departmenl
HUD
Community Oevelopmenl 81ock Gtanlo lo local
ecqulsHion 01 historic propertlee for low-Income houelng;
plllza/p11111 rehabllltllllon; City of Laredo ownertoccupled
houalng rahllbiiMallon program with 0% loan up to
$15,000
HUDICity of laredo Communl'y Development Oeptment
HUD
Historic Preaervateon Loens 10 proopeclove homeowners
aveltable from FHA inoured priY. . . lnathutlono under Title HUD~loc*banka
I Home Improvement Loan Program with $45,000 cep and
15 yeara 1o repay al curant marlcal rate
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Services Fund
matchWig grenta up lo $1500 to nonprofM groups end
educ:allon projects, publlcetlona, worbhOpa, brochurea
Nallonal Trust lor Historic Preservalion. Fl Wot1h olfoce
National Trust for Historic Preservation
Community Partners Program
real eatale e.oopertise end financing to community-based
historic neighborhood revllalizetlon
Natlonel Trusllor Hestoric Preserveloon Olfoce of F onaneial
Services
Texas Preservation Fund
grants
opeclal pro)llcta In hlaloric preaervallan
Te... Hlatorlcal CommisaK>n
Texas Urban Main Street Program
lachnical aaalatanca
comblnaa ~lc prae.vatton wtlh downtown marlcallng;
raqulraa a 8 year slalfeng commitmem
T - H'-lorlcal Commission
asaletance
govemmenll
local governments
groupe
CLG reprMMiallve, Texas H'-loroc:al CommtSsoon
or Transponetion
Hotel/Motel Tax Revenues
grenls to nonprofit groupo
hiatorlc preaervatlon related to tourlam development
City of Laredo
Webb County Heritage Foundation
mlni11fantS
laceda repair end raatoratton In 1oce1 hlelorlc dlatrk:ltl
Webb County HerHage Foundation
Public Improvement Districts
private or prlvllle/publlc inlliallva
special aan11ment dlatrlct for lnlraltructure
lmprovementa - aldawal!a, lighting. landaceplng, p11111a,
cutllnlralllted projecta, MrYtcea
City of Laredo
ad valorem lex abalemenl
Hlelorlc Preaervalion Olrocar, Cily of laredo Plannong
require• aubltantlet rehabllltellon hlllorlc c:ommarclel
end realdantlal proper11ea dealgnated •• Locally 81gnflcant Department
Historic Landrnartla, Recorded T8lUIII Hlslorlcal
Landrnerlul, NallonaJ Raglatar Landrnerlul, or aa
algnlllcant proper1laa wllhln tocet hlalorlc dlllrtcta or
National Register D latrtcla
County of Webb
ad valorem lax abatement
raqulraa ....,...,...,., rahabllltetlon htatorlc c:ommarcJal or H'-'orlc Praaervatlon Olllcar, CHv of laredo Planning
Oaper1mant
retldentlal propartlll clealgnaled • LOC8IIy Slgnlllcant
Hlotorlc Landm11111a, Reoorded T - H'-lorlcal
~m11111a, National Raglatar Landmartla, or aa
algnlflcant propartlaa within locel hlalorlc dlatrlcta or
National Raglltar Dlllrlcta
U.S. Department of the Interior
Income tax credft up to 20% of cepllallmprovemenl coats commarclal proparttaa only; noquJrae noatorallon
asooclated with historic rehabltftatlon
ewpendlture of $5,000 or baala building; atruc:ture must
bll Ci8l1l!lad u ellglbla for National Reglater
State of Texas
aalal tax uamptlon on labor colla aaaoclated with
hlatorlc rehabNRatlon
atructura must bll certified u allglble for Nallonll Raglatar T - Hlllorlcal Cornmisalon, National Regoster
0apertmant and Stale Comptroller's Office
HUD - Texas Department of Housing and
Community Affairs
elfordabla houalng Income tax aedlt
lor prlveta devalopara engaged In llflordable housing
projeeta; mull aat aalda 1111eeat 20% unMa for low
Income rantet houalng
Texas Enterprise Zone Program
economic development lncantlvaa to atlract cepltal
investmenl end job aeatlon
area muat encompaaa at taaat one aquare mila; lncantlvaa TelUII Department or Commerce
may lncJuda bolh local end llale benaflta ranging from
refund olllate- and 11M-· raductlonlnfranc:IWa
tuea, utility reduction, end public MrVIce 8Xpln8lon IUch
•• dey cere, crime prevention, and nnaM HfYic8l
or
or
or
or
A3
T - Hlotorlcal Commission, Nllllonal Regislet
Department
Taxaa Department of Housing and Community Atlaors
LOCAL HISTORIC DESIGNATIONS IN LAREDO
LOCAL DISTRICTS:
1. San Agustin de Laredo Historic District, 1974
2. Old Mercado Historic District, 1985
3. St Peter's Historic District, 1985
LOCAL LANDMARKS:
1. Bruni Plaza, 1995
2. Hamilton Hotel, 1989
3. Heights Fire Station, 1995
~.1Jarvis Plaza, 1995
4:s Old Central Fire Station, 1995
A.~ San Bernardo Fire Station, 1995
..5/Zut\iga, Roberto, Horne, 1995
MONUMENTS IN LAREDO
1. AM. Bruni, hemisphere, Bruni Plaza
2. Bell, 1890, Old Central Fire Station
3. Disabled American Veterans, 1987, Jarvis Plaza
4. Eternal Flame, 50th Anniversary of the American Legion, 1969, Jarvis Plaza
5. First Infantry, New Hampshire National Guard, 1944 (plaque on bandstand), Jarvis Plaza
6. George Washington statue, City Hall
7. Laredo Founders, 1938, San Agustfn Plaza
8. Persian Gulf War - Operation Desert Storm, 1991, Jarvis Plaza
9. Police Department Honor Roll, 1962, Jarvis Plaza
10. Saint Augustine statue, circa 1970, San Agustin Plaza
11. Vidal Trevino School of Art and Communication statue, Main Avenue
12. Vietnam War Honor Role, 1969, Jarvis Plaza
13. World War I Honor Role, 1917-1918, Jarvis Plaza
14. World War II & Korean Conflict Honor Roll, Jarvis Plaza
15. Zaragoza, General Ignacio, statue, 1980, San Agustin Plaza
MURALS IN LAREDO
Centurion, 4102 McPherson Rd.
El Aztecs, 20 lturbide
Fire Department Centennial, 1986, Old Central Fire Station
Memorial Middle School, 2002 Marcella Avenue
Muses, 1995, Del Mar Water Tanks
6. Pocahontas, cor. Santa Ursula Avenue and Houston
7. Quick Bite Restaurant Dining Room, 3401 San Bernardo Ave.
8. Twiss hunting mural, 912 lturbide
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
A4
NATIONAL REGISTER OF HISTORIC PLACES IN LAREDO
AND WEBB COUNTY
NATIONAL REGISTER DISTRICTS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Fort Mcintosh Historic/Archaeological District (41WB11), 1975 1 S olll z.oJl
Los Ojuelos Ranch Historic District (3 mi. S of Miranda City on FM 649), 1973
San Jose de Palafox Historic/Archaeological District (41WB39), (FM1472, 30 mi. N of Laredo), 1973
Villa San Agustin de Laredo Historic District, 1973
•
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NATIONAL LANDMARKS:
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1. Hamilton Hotel, 1990 'tt\~.s ~Zooo3&3
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2. WebbCountyCourthouse, 1980 'S\~.t llu•HS 1oo• f{~
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OFFICIAL TEXAS HISTORICAL MARKERS IN LAREDO
AND WEBB COUNTY
{
1. Benavides Brothers, San Agustin Plaza, subject marker, 1976
2. Benavides, Refugio, Laredo Catholic Cemetery, US 59, subject marker, 1990
3. Benavides, Santos, Laredo Catholic Cemetery, US 59, subject marker, 1994
4. Casa Ortfz, 915 Zaragoza Street, building marker, 1964
5. Casa Zaragoza, 702 Zaragoza Street, medallion, 1963 (demolished)
6. City Hall and Market House, 500 San Agustin Avenue, subject marker, 1990
7. Education in Mirando City, #1 Panther Drive, subject marker, 1981
8. Fort Mcintosh, entrance to Laredo Community College, subject marker, 1974
9. Fort Mcintosh Barracks, Victoria Street, building marker, 1962
10. Killam, Oliver Winfield, FM 649, S. City Limits, Mirando City, subject marker, 1972
11 . Laredo Election Riot, 1886, San Agustin Plaza, subject marker, 1977
12. Laredo National Bank, 700 San Bernardo, subject marker, 1993
13. Mission Dolores A Visits, 2.5 mi. Son US 83, Centennial Marker, 1936
14. Poblaci6n De Dolores, Off US 83, NW, Centennial Marker, 1936
15. . Republic of the Rio Grande, 1000 Zaragoza, subject marker, 1976, replacement 1994
16. Republic of the Rio Grande, 1000 Zaragoza, building marker, 1965
17. Richter, August C. and Julia, Mansion, 1906 Houston, building marker, 1985
18. Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 1500 Matamoros, subject marker, 1992
19. Smith, Erastus (Deaf), CasaBlanca Club Grounds, Centennial marker, 1936
20. St. Augustine Church, 214 San Agustin Avenue, building marker, 1963
21 . Verdaguer, Bishop Peter, Laredo Catholic Cemetery, US 59, subject marker, 1963
22. Vidaurri Home, 202 Flores Avenue, building marker, 1964
23. Webb County, IH35 and Del Mar Blvd., Centennial marker, 1936
'
Other Plaques and Markers:
1. Blue Star Highway marker, IH 35 at Del Mar Blvd., circa 1945
2. Villa De Laredo, Original Site of, 1000 Zaragoza, plaque
A4
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03ooo~31
Historic Themes
San Agustin
Plazas - Fiestas
Spanish-Mexican Colonial Settlement & Architecture
Ranching Heritage
Republic of the Rio Grande
Early Education and Religion
Botas & Guaraches
Old Mercado
Early Commerce
Local Government
Arts and Culture
Main Street Architecture
St. Peter's
19th Century Immigrants
Railroads
Religious Diversity
Plazas - Recreation
American Architectural Styles
(
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Fort Mcintosh
Earty Transportation Routes- El Paso de los Indios
Frontier Protection
Buffalo Soldiers
Earty Aviation
United States Annexation
El Cuatro
African-Amercan settlement
Buffalo Soldiers
Laredo Seminary
Railroads
La Ladrillera & El Trace
Brick Manufacturing
Coal Mining
Early 20th Century Immigration
Mexican Revolution
Native American Traditions - Los Matachines de Ia Santa Cruz
EIAzteca
Early Horse-drawn Transportation (Plaza de Noria)
Mexican Vaudville (Azteca Theater)
Early Education (Escuela Amarilla)
Agri-business (Molinos)
Mexican Architecture
AS
The Heights
Electric Street Car
Early Suburban Living
Battle of Laredo - near Zacate Creek
Early 20th Century Architecture
La Guadalupe
Boy's Club
Mexican Revolution
Virgin of Guadalupe Religious Observance
Great Depression r.yo.JPA)
San Bernardo Avenue
Car Culture
EntertainmenVTourism
Foodways
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A5
Census of the Population 1755-1990
- >-=Jir=:~(:::s~;:~:
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1755
25
1757
85
1767
120
1778
200
1789
700 (plus 110 Carrizo Indians)
1820
1,417
1823
1,402
1824
1,570
1828
2,054
1831
1,698
1833
1,746
1835
1,979
1836
1,845
1837
1,736
1845
1,889
1846
1,891
1860
1,397
1,397
1870
2,046
2,615
1880
3,521
5,273
1890
11,319
14,842
1900
13,429
21,851
1910
14,855
22,503
1920
22,710
22,503
1930
32,618
29,152
1940
39,274
42,123
1950
51,910
56,141
1960
60,678
64,791
1970
69,024
72,859
1980
91,449
99,258
1990
122,899
133,239
A6
I '
City of Laredo Historic Preservation Plan
Public Involvement Process
I,
In public hearings, the City of Laredo Historic Preservation Plan was unanimously approved for referral
to City Council by the Historic District/Landmark Board on December 4, 1995, and the Planning and
Zoning Commission on February 1, 1996.
The Historic Preservation Plan was disseminated to interested parties for comment On March 8,
1996, the Webb County Historical Commission unanimously endorsed the plan in its regular public
meeting. On March 14, the Webb County Heritage Foundation, whose board represents 200 members,
unanimously endorsed the plan in its monthly board meeting. The plan was provided to interested
residents and business owners in the city's historic areas for comment Other organizations that received
copies were the El Azteca Economic Development and Preservation Organization, the Downtown
Revitalization Committee, the City of Laredo Convention and Vasitor's Bureau, the Laredo Community
College- Ft. Mcintosh Preservation and Restoration Committee, Los Caminos del Rio, and the Texas
Historical Commission.
f
Historic District/Landmark Board
1995-1996
Jose Diaz De Leon, Chairman
Elia Pruneda
John Keck
Stanley C. Green
Bonnie Ramirez Lepovitz
Sharyn Jordan
Lawrence Friedman
Elizabeth J. Gill
Rosi Garcia De Anda
Marina M. Sukup, AICP, Director of Planning
Nina Nixon-M6ndez, Historic Preservation Officer
City Planning Department Staff
A7
Comments
Response
i
l
The review process dictates what exterior changes
an owner can or cannot undertake on his property.
The process makes the owner restore his property
to reflect a certain time period.
The review process filters out inappropriate repairs
and provides alternatives to property owners which
are compatible with historic architectural styles.
Emphasis is placed on rehabilitation, where the
character defining features of a property are
identified, and the preservation or incorporation of
these features into the new use is desired, taking
into consideration the economic and technological
feasibility of a project The standards encourage
the retention of different time periods of a building,
but discourage recreating false historic features
which are conjectural. New additions are allowed
in a manner that protects the historic integrity of the
property. The intent of the review process is to
provide a creative, workable solution to
rehabilitating a property which allows for the new
use and respects the historic setting.
The establishment of a conservation district and
additional historic districts will increase the work
load of the Historic District landmark Board and
increase expenditures in the administration of such
a program. The property owners will have to
undergo another review to obtain a city permit for
new construction.
The plan itself is a policy statement and is not an
adoption of the regulatory systems recommended
in the plan. Administratively the review process
could be streamlined where new construction
projects and signage are reviewed on the staff
level, with appeals going to the Historic
Districtllandmark Board. Demolition and exterior
work would be reviewed by the Historic
District/landmark Board. Minor repairs are exempt
from review.
Fort Mcintosh already is a National Historic District;
therefore, is it necessary that it be considered for a
local district?
As a state archeological landmark, any new
projects which impact an area of archeological
potential must be reviewed by the Texas Historical
Commission. An architectural review is provided by
the state only when federal funds are involved,
which is required by Section 106 of the National
Preservation Act. A local review process would
ensure a higher degree of protection of the site and
provide for an architectural review process. As a
certified local government. a memorandum of
agreement may be established with the Texas
Historical Commission on levels of review provided
by the local government and the state. This may
actually streamline the review process in some
cases, while allowing public involvement through a
public hearing conducted by a qualified historic
preservation commission and ensuring the level of
protection which is warranted for this nationally
important site.
A7
Comments
Response
The review process dictates what exterior changes
an owner can or cannot undertake on his property.
The process makes the owner restore his property
to reflect a certain time period.
The review process filters out inappropriate repairs
and provides alternatives to property owners which
are compatible with historic architectural styles.
Emphasis is placed on rehabilitation, where the
character defining features of a property are
identified, and the preservation or incorporation of
these features into the new use is desired, taking
Into consideration the economic and technological
feasibility of a project. The standards encourage
the retention of different time periods of a building,
but discourage recreating false historic features
which are conjectural. New additions are allowed
in a manner that protects the historic integrity of the
property. The Intent of the review process Is to
provide a creative, workable solution to
rehabilitating a property which allows for the new
use and respects the historic setting.
The establishment of a conservation district and
additional historic districts will increase the work
load of the Historic District Landmark Board and
increase expenditures in the administration of such
a program. The property owners will have to
undergo another review to obtain a city permit for
new construction.
The plan itself is a policy statement and is not an
adoption of the regulatory systems recommended
in the plan. Administratively the review process
could be streamlined where new construction
projects and signage are reviewed on the staff
level, with appeals going to the Historic
DistricVLandmark Board. Demolition and exterior
work would be reviewed by the Historic
Districtllandmark Board. Minor repairs are exempt
from review.
Fort Mcintosh already is a National Historic District;
therefore, is it necessary that it be considered for a
local district?
As a state archeological landmark, any new
projects which impact an area of archeological
potential must be reviewed by the Texas Historical
Commission. An architectural review is provided by
the state only when federal funds are involved,
which is required by Section 106 of the National
Preservation Act. A local review process would
ensure a higher degree of protection of the site and
provide for an architectural review process. As a
certified local government, a memorandum of
agreement may be established with the Texas
Historical Commission on levels of review provided
by the local government and the state. This may
actually streamline the review process in some
cases, while allowing public involvement through a
public hearing conducted by a qualified historic
preservation commission and ensuring the level of
protection which is warranted for this nationally
important site.
A7
cc.<..
RESOLUTION
ADOPTrNG THE CITY OF LAREDO
HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN
WHEREAS, the City of Laredo is one of the oldest cities in the United States founded on
May 1S, 17SS; and
WHEREAS, historic resources of local and national significance contribute to the unique
bi-cultural heritage of the City; and
WHEREAS, the benefits of historic preservation include a visually attractive urban
space, the creation of jobs, the opening of new businesses, increased tourism. and the
revitalization of older neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS. the City of Laredo Historic District/landmark Board shall make
recommendations to the City Council, Planning and Zoning Commission, City Manager, and
City Departments concerning the adoption of policies, the sources of funds, and designation of
districts and landmarks that may funher the City's preservation effort; and
WHEREAS. the City of Laredo Historic Preservation Plan shall serve as a policy
statement on proposed and adopted preservation strategies;
./
(
TO NOW, THEREFORE. BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HISTORIC DISTRICTILAND~tARK
BOARD OF THE CITY OF LAREDO THAT:
THE CITY OF LAREDO HISTORIC PRESERVATION PLAN BE ADOPTED ~'ID
REFERRED TO CITY COlJNCIL FOR CONSIDERATION.
PASSED BY THE HISTORICiDISTRICT LANDMARK BOARD ON THIS THE mDA Y
OF Decembei 1995.