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RIO GRANDE
CITY, TEXAS
Starr County Seat,
South Texas
Hwy 83
40 miles W of McAllen
On the Rio Grande
Population: 11,923 (2000) 10,725 (1990)
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A
sample of early South Texas architecture in Rio Grande City
TE photo, 1997 |
History
in a Pecan Shell
Originally
formed as part of the Garza Ranch in Mexico, Rio Grande
City came into its own when Henry Clay Davis married into the Garza
Family. He and his wife, Maria Hilaria (she had a great sense of humor)
de la Garza moved here to have some privacy and ended up founding
a town.
This was one end of the Steamboat Route up the River and as
such, merchants and money flowed in.
The
Starr County Courthouse - next page |
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School
building in Rio Grande City one block east of the courthouse. Destroyed
by fire.
1918
photo courtesy Jim Gesler, Wyoming, NY |
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A
residence in Rio Grande City
1918
photo courtesy Jim Gesler, Wyoming, NY |
Rio Grande
City Attractions
Carmargo
is the "sister city" across the river. Both sides have interesting
architecture, perhaps some of the most interesting in the Valley.
Rockwork in Mexico and brickwork in Rio Grande City.
The La Borde
House is a charmer and the best part is: You can spend the night
there! The furnishings are authentic (with modern plumbing).
The De La
Pena Building has been pleasing visitors for years. Even the
lightning rods are in place. Back of a postcard reads: "This is
the most Mexican town in the U.S."
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Main
St. in Rio Grande City. The 2 story bldg. on the right is today's
famous restored La Borde House.
1918
photo courtesy Jim Gesler, Wyoming, NY |
Nearby Attractions
Fort
Ringgold
>
Now occupied by the Rio Grande City Independent School District,
this Fort founded in 1848 after the Mexican War was over, served
as a base for protection forces during periods of bandit raids in
the Border area. Named after Major Samuel Ringgold.
See The
Lost Photos of Starr County >
(The Sgt Roy Chamberlain Collection, Fort Ringgold and Environs
c. 1918)
The
Lee House (Robert E. Lee) >
The old Guard
House and Hospital.
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If you are
staying in one of the bigger towns down river, don't return before
driving the few miles (Hwy 83 West) to Roma,
rich in South Texas architecture.
Don't miss
the hand-operated ferry in Los
Ebanos.
Book Your Hotel Here & Save
Rio
Grande City Hotels
More
Hotels
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Garmon Theater downtown
TE photo, 2002
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H &
H Drive-in Theatre north of Rio Grande City
TE photo, 2002 |
Rio Grande
City Tourist Information
Rio
Grande City Chamber of Commerce :
601 Main Street 956-487-3024 |
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