October  2002
Editor: Mimi Lozano, mimilozano@aol.com

Dedicated to Hispanic Heritage & Diversity Issues
Publication of the Society of Hispanic Historical and Ancestral Research © 2000-2
http://members.aol.com/shhar      714-894-8161

Felícitas and Gonzalo Méndez c.1946 

A Family Changes History : Méndez v. Westminster
Fiftieth Anniversary 1947-1997

Photo from the cover of a publication by
the University of California, Irvine, Office of the Vice Chancellor
Building in background is a photo of old Hoover School, Westminster, California

      Although most of the nation is knowledgeable about the (Topeka, Kansas) Brown v. Board of Education case, long credited with ending segregation in the nation's schools, it was actually eight years before when the first court case prohibiting segregation of schools was passed - -  in California, with the Méndez v. Westminister case.  On September 24, 2002  a documentary on this landmark school- desegregation decision was aired on KOCE.  The producer was Sandy Membrila Robbie. 

        Don't tell Sandra Alicia Membrila Robbie that people don't want to hear about Orange County's old days. "People are hungry for history," she says. And this week, Membrila Robbie gives local TV viewers a taste of it.
        The Santa Ana resident produced "Mendez vs. Westminster: For All the Children/Para Todos los Niños," which airs on KOCE/50 at 7:30 tonight. The documentary concerns the little- known case of a Hispanic family who went to court half a century ago to end segregation in local schools. The case had a ripple effect on the whole state, Membrila Robbie said. Others say it affected the history of the whole country.

Sandra Robbie & Christopher Arriola, J.D. September 24, 2002
Old Court House, Santa Ana,  California

        "Mendez vs. Westminster" tells of the Mendez family, whose children faced school segregation in Garden Grove during the 1940s. The family had just moved from Santa Ana to tend a farm they were renting from a Japanese family that had been sent to an internment camp during World War II.
        When Gonzalo and Felicitas Mendez found out that their children were required to go to "a school only for Mexicans," separate from white students because of their dark skin, the parents decided to go to court to fight for equality in education. Along with other Hispanic families, the Mendezes filed a lawsuit in 1944 against four school districts: Westminster, Garden Grove, Santa Ana and El Modena. They waged a three-year battle in the judicial system to change discriminatory policies at schools in Orange County - and beyond.
        The family won the first round in a Los Angeles court and in 1947 prevailed again on appeal. Except for a few books and some newspaper articles, the case has received little publicity. Membrila Robbie found out about the Mendezes' struggle from reading a story in The Orange County Register six years ago.
        "I was totally impressed," she said. "It opened up a window in my heart and mind, and I realized that history was made here, that Orange County made a difference."
        As part of the staff of the KOCE program "Real Orange," Membrila Robbie, 44, suggested a documentary about the Mendez case. While she said the show was the ideal vehicle to deliver the story, Membrila Robbie was also willing to go it alone if need be. So even before KOCE gave the green light to the project, she was working on the documentary, researching and talking to some of the Mendez children (their father died in 1964, their mother in late 1998).
        "California was the first state in the nation to end segregation in school, and that was thanks to the Mendez family," the producer says.
        The case brought many groups together, such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Jewish American Congress and the Japanese American Citizens League. According to Judge Frederick Aguirre of the Orange County Superior Court, all those organizations filed friend-of- the-court briefs in support of the Mendez case.
        Aguirre said the Mendez case changed the course of history. Until then, the U.S. Supreme Court had determined that "separate but equal" schools for blacks and whites were constitutional. Aguirre thinks that the Mendez case may have opened a window of opportunity to overturn the case law.
        In fact, one of the lawyers who filed the NAACP's amicus brief in favor of the Mendez was Thurgood Marshall. Later, Marshall would be part of the legal team that argued the Brown vs. Board of Education case, which ended segregation in all schools throughout the United States.
        "In the footnotes of Brown vs. Board of Education, the Mendez vs. Westminster case was mentioned," Aguirre says. "Mendez was the first case to convince a federal court that 'separate but equal' was unconstitutional."
        The story of the family's struggle for equality seemingly was forgotten by the Mendezes themselves. When daughter Sandra Mendez discovered the case while studying in college, she asked her parents why they did not tell their kids about it. Gonzalo Mendez responded, "Because nobody asked us," according to Sylvia Mendez, 66, who was among the children represented in the lawsuit.  
        But now the story is about to reach many people. Because of the 30-minute documentary's length, it can be used in California classrooms, the producer says. This pleases Sylvia Mendez greatly. She has gotten calls from Hollywood to make a movie about the case, but she declined. "I wanted the story to be factual and truthful," she says. "This documentary does that, and so many kids will be able to see in school."  

To obtain copies of the documentary, contact Sandy Robbie Mendezvwest@aol.com

For a complete listing of article, including contemporary features int eh Los Angeles Times, the Orange County Register, La Opinion, and Excelsior, please contact Sylvia Méndez, 714-871-3760. 

Complete documentation on court briefs, transcripts, tapes and other historical legal materials, may be obtained by contacting Christopher J. Arriola, J.D. at the Office of the District Attorney, County of Santa Clara, San Jose, CA  chrisarriola@yahoo.com

A nation wide effort for promotion of this documentary is being coordinated by a coalition of Hispanic Bar Associations.  For more information contact Judge Fredrick Aguirre,  FAguirre@occourts.org.

                                More on this subject in this issue under United States.

"When one is happy in forgetfulness, facts get forgotten." Robert Penn Warren, The Legacy of the Civil War

                        THE WHITE HOUSE NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, 2002
                              by the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

                                      A PROCLAMATION by President George W. Bush

        America's cultural diversity has always been a great strength of our Nation. The Hispanic- American community has a long and important history of commitment to our Nation's core values. And the contributions of this community have helped make our country great. During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the many achievements of Hispanic Americans and recognize their contributions to our country.
        In 1968, the United States Congress authorized President Lyndon Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, and its observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration to honor our Nation's Hispanic heritage. During this month, America celebrates the traditions, ancestry, and unique experiences of those who trace their roots to Spain, and the countries of Central and South America.
        Throughout our history, Hispanic Americans have enriched the American way of life, and we recognize the millions of Hispanic Americans whose love of family, hard work, and community has helped unite us as a people and sustain us as a Nation. As entrepreneurs and public servants, scholars and artists, Hispanic Americans have provided wisdom, energy, and leadership to our communities, and to our country. During the Civil War, David Glasgow Farragut, son of Revolutionary War hero Jorge Farragut of Spain, won fame as a Union hero by blocking Southern ports. The Congress rewarded his valor by naming him the Navy's first four-star Admiral. Nearly a century ago, Hispanic actresses Myrtle Gonzalez and Beatriz Michelena were popular stars in silent films. Many others followed as the industry expanded in the 20th Century, including Rita Hayworth, Fernando Lamas, Anthony Quinn, and Rita Moreno. In 1959, Dr. Severo Ochoa won the Nobel Prize in Medicine and Physiology for his discovery of RNA (ribonucleic acid), one of the chemical building blocks of life, and in 1986, Dr. Franklin Chang-Diaz became the first Hispanic astronaut in space. In the world of sports, athletes such as Robert Clemente, Lee Trevino, Chi Chi Rodriquez, and Nancy Lopez have earned the admiration of countless Americans for their athletic skills.
        We also remember those Hispanics who established the vibrant and diverse American cities of Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Fe, San Antonio, and many others. We remember those who were instrumental in exploring and mapping our great hemisphere and we honor those proud Hispanic American patriots who fought and died for our country in every war and conflict since our founding.
        As we celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, I join with all Americans in celebrating this rich and diverse culture and encourage all citizens to recognize the important role of Hispanics in creating and building this great Nation.
        To honor the achievements of Hispanic Americans, the Congress, by Public Law 100-402, has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation designating September 15 through October 15, as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
        NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 15 to October 15, 2002, as National Hispanic Heritage Month. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians, and all the people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs.
        IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirteenth day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.            
                                                  George W. Bush, September 13, 2002    

                                                                                          Sent by carlosvillanueva@yahoo.com

San Francisco Board of Education, September 1997
Recognition of Felicatas and Gonzalo Mendez and Celebration of the 50th Anniversary of their Landmark Court Victory
Ending Segregation of Latino Children in California Public Schools
Sponsored by Mary T. Hernandez, Esq. and Dr. Carlota del Portillo

Whereas, personal sacrifice and determination were shared by the entire Mendez family including Gonzalo Mendez Jr, Sylvia Mendez, and Gerónimo Mendez,

Whereas, their contribution to the fight for civil and equal rights more than fifty years also should never be forgotten, and

Now therefore, be it resolved that the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education salute the Mendez Family and recognize them for their contribution to the education of children in this District as well as all children through this nation.

On September 18th the Cesar Chavez family were joined by National Leaders for Unveiling of the Cesar E. Chavez Commemorative Stamp in Washington, D.C . In April 2003, the Cesar E. Chavez Commemorative Stamp will be issued on the 10th anniversary of Cesar's passing, to honor his life's work and legacy, which continues to inspire others. In addition, the stamp will be incorporated into programming and events around Cesar Chavez Day 2003, which is an official state holiday in California, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas, as well as in dozens of cities and counties throughout the nation. The inaugural unveiling and subsequent issuance of the stamp is a tribute to Cesar's significance in American history, and to his legacy's potential in America's future.
        "My father's teachings of compassion, justice and dignity still ring true almost a decade after his passing," said Paul Chavez, Chairman of the Cesar E. Chavez Foundation. "The Cesar E. Chavez commemorative stamp is a powerful vehicle to introduce future generations of Americans to his vital
legacy, teaching them that through determination and hard work they can improve their own lives and communities."
        Cesar's work transcended any one movement or cause. He inspired millions of Americans to seek social justice and civil rights for the poor and disenfranchised. He advocated for nonviolent social reform. He was an environmentalist and labor leader. Ultimately, he forged an extraordinary
and diverse national coalition of students, middle-class consumers, trade unionists, religious groups, and women and minorities.
        Cesar was born on March 31, 1927, near his family's farm in Yuma, Arizona. He spent his youth working with his family in agricultural fields throughout the Southwest. Cesar joined the U.S. Navy in 1946, and served in the Western Pacific in the aftermath of World War II. In 1952, he became a community organizer for the most prominent Latino civil rights organization of that time, the Community Service Organization, before founding the United Farm Workers of America. He passed away in his sleep on April 23, 1993, a few miles from the farm where he was born.
        The Cesar E. Chavez Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization 501(c)(3) established by Cesar's family and friends in 1993, whose mission is to preserve, promote and apply the legacy and values of civil rights and farm labor leader Cesar E. Chavez through contemporary programming and scholarships that promote community involvement, non-violence, education, environmental stewardship, justice and equality for all Americans. The Foundation's programming utilizes Cesar's vital legacy to teach individuals that they have inherent and unlimited potential to make a difference in their own lives, in their communities, and in the world as a
whole. http://www.chavezfoundation.org                 Source: HispanicOnline, Sent by Zeke Hernanded

         For the nation’s 35 million Hispanics, “home” is overwhelmingly the Southwest. The numbers don’t lie. Of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus’s 18 members, seven are from Texas, five are from California and one is from Arizona. And seven of our 10 cities this year are book-ended between Los Angeles to the West and Houston to the East. That’s what Garreau calls “Mexamerica,” a region where only the legal borders, not the people, have changed. As some Mexicans like to say, “We didn’t cross the border. The border crossed us.”
        Back east, we’ve chosen three cities along the Atlantic coastline, a couple of which may surprise you.  The criteria: Percentage of Hispanics in the city, political representation, whether you can hablar en español without feeling like a foreigner, and the vibrancy and hipness of the Latin cultural scene.

Reebok Discovers Hot New Look with Singer Shakira, NY Post - September 24, 2002  
        "Reebok understands what young people around the world are all about," Shakira said in a statement. "By joining their team, I am able to fuse my style and music with Reebok's products and marketing to further connect with this global audience."
        Shakira is truly global. The 25-year-old songstress is Colombian by birth, but is of Colombian and Lebanese descent. She speaks three languages - Spanish, Arabic and English - allowing her to communicate with much of the world.
        The Reebok Classic apparel associated with the songbird's campaign will feature shoes ranging in price from $60 to $80, and such sportswear items as $20 cropped bra-tops (perfect for belly dancing) and $100 velour warm-ups.  Source, HispanicOnline

Transnational Challenges to Nation-Centered Stories
Democracy in Mexico--the Complex Roles of the United States: A Conversation with Sergio AguayoMexico, the Latin North American Nation: A Conversation with Carlos Rico Ferrat

Migrants and the Nation-State
Migration, Emergent Ethnicity, and the "Third Space": 
The Shifting Politics of Nationalism in Greater Mexico David G. Gutiérrez
The New Era of Mexican Migration to the United States 
Jorge Durand, Douglas S. Massey, and Emilio A. Parrado
A Nation beyond Its Borders: The Program for Mexican Communities Abroad
Rodulfo Figueroa-Aramoni
Fostering Identities: Mexico's Relations with Its Diaspora Carlos González Gutiérrez

Historical Perspectives on the Mexican Moment
Janus and the Northern Colossus: Perceptions of the United States in the Building of the Mexican Nation  Francisco Valdés-Ugalde
Conversation with Lorenzo Meyer about Mexico's Political Transition: From Authoritarianism to What?
Mexico's Cultural Landscapes: A Conversation with Carlos Monsiváis

Rethinking Nation-Centered Issues
The Internationalization of Police: The Case of the DEA in Mexico María Celia Toro
Reading Mexico, Understanding the United States: American Transnational Intellectuals in the 1920s and 1990s  Jesus Velasco
National Identity on a Shifting Border: Texas and New Mexico in the Age of Transition, 1821-1848  Andrés Reséndez
Mexico, the Puzzle: A Conversation about Civil Society and the Nation with Ilan Semo

        The data presented here describe the people and the economy of the US for each state and county from 1790 to 1960.  This site is made available with the cooperation and consent of the Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR), in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This WWW site is intended to aid in browsing these data files. It is not intended as a tool for downloading data for further research or more involved manipulation.                
        Information on the decennial census is available in Measuring America: The Decennial Censuses from 1790 to 2000. This document is available from the Census Bureau website. Warning: It is fairly large and may be difficult to download at slow modem speeds. Please email comments@census.gov if you have problems with this link.  Methodology of this site  If you have questions concerning this resource, please email geostat@virginia.edu.                      Sent by Johanna de Soto

The Hispanic Arts Council of Bowers Museum, Annual Dia De Los Muertos    
Sunday, October 27, 2002, 12 Noon to 4:00 P.M.  
Free Admission to the Activities in the Bowers Museum Courtyard.
2002 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, CA
Altar Displays, face painting, entertainment and our famous tamales and pan dulce for sale.
For more information:  714-241-7527

Announcement: HISPANIC RESEARCH METHODS CLASS 
LOS ANGELES FAMILY HISTORY CENTER, OCTOBER 19, 2002
Instructor:  John P. Schmal

        On October 19, 2002, at 11:a.m., John Schmal will teach the "Hispanic Research Methods Class" at the Los Angeles Family History Center in Westwood, California. This library is located at 10741 Santa Monica Blvd., on the same grounds at the Mormon Temple, is less than two miles east of the 405 (San Diego Freeway) on Santa Monica Blvd.
        This one-and-a-half hour class – which is free to all persons who choose to attend – will show people how to start tracing their family tree in the Southwestern USA or Latin America. The class will discuss the great detail of Mexican and Puerto Rican records. The availability of church and civil records in Mexio and other Latin American countries will be the focus. Many people believe that the records for their towns were destroyed during the wars and revolutions in Mexico. For the most part, however, they are wrong, and more than 154,000 microfilms for Mexico's church and civil records are available through the Family History Library.
        There will be more than 20 handouts, including a beginner's outline, border-crossing documents, naturalization and alien registration records, as well as baptism and marriage records from Seventeenth and Eighteenth Century Mexico.
        The utilization of the IGI (International Genealogical Index), a powerful database containing almost 30 million extractions of births, baptism, and marriages from Mexico, will also be discussed. Sample searches will be done for those attending.
        John Schmal has been teaching this class for three years and has a great deal of experience in researching Mexican, Guatemalan, and Puerto Rican records. He is the coauthor of "Mexican-American Genealogical Research: Following the Paper Trail to Mexico" (with Donna S. Morales). This book, consisting of 148 pages and 62 documents, is divided into the following chapters:

1. Following the Paper Trail 
2. Finding Vital Records 
3. Other Sources of Vital Information 
4. Naturalization Records 
5. Alien Registration Records 
6. Crossing the Border 
7. The Best Records in the World 
8. Passengers to the Indies 
9. The Indians of Mexico 
10. In the Service of Their Country 
11. Getting Prepared

        The 62 documents include obituaries, funeral records, marriage records, Alien Registration, Naturalization documents, border-crossing records, Mexican Church records, Mexican Indian records, and military records. It can be purchased at the CD-Store of Heritage Books website at...
http://www.heritagebooks.com

If you are interested in attending this class, you can contact John Schmal at Johnnypj@aol.com or 818 734 3509. The phone number of the library is (310) 474-9990 and 310-474-2202.

 Tia Chucha's Café Cultural . . . Where Art and Minds Meet-For a Change"

        Tia Chucha's Café Cultural is a dream of community empowerment. Three San Fernando residents (bios) came together late last year to create a partnership to make this dream come true. Our aim is to provide great books; workshops on the arts and literature; spoken word, musical, and theatrical performances; an art gallery and workspace; and a technological center to help bridge the digital divide in our communities. And it is going to be a place where one can find great-tasting coffees and drinks.
        We want a place where the community can dialogue, share ideas, organize, and get skillful in the various communicative and visual arts. We want a place where families can be stimulated to read books, participate in intellectual activity, and are surrounded by the healing power of art and the word. A place where creativity can be brought fully to bear and where we can positively transform the quality of our individual lives as well as the lives of our diverse communities.
       Tia Chucha's will proudly feature the best of Chicano/Latino art, literature, and theatre presented by well-established and emerging artisans. We will also have a cutting edge multimedia center that will draw from our rich past and help guide us into the future. Our doors are open for everyone as we welcome all nationalities, cultures, and communities to partake in what this growing community has to offer in arts and literature. Our goal is to enhance the intellectual, aesthetic, technological, and cultural life of our communities. Books. Arts. Dance. Music. Theater. Computers. Poetry. And good coffee, too.  12737 Glenoaks Blvd., #22 * Sylmar, CA 91342 * (818) 362-7060 * info@tiachucha.com     
                                                                                               Sent by Cartoonist, Serg Hernandez 

Weekly Events
Every Wednesday, Film Night - 7pm  Like to make films? Like to watch films? Then this is your night at Tia Chucha's. Local film producerMike Centeno will host these special nights. One Wednesday there will workshops on film making; then the following Wednesday there will be screenings and discussions of films of cultural and social significance.
"Theatre Thursdays" at Tia Chucha's Cafe Cultural  Every Thursday at 7:30pm E.A.R.TH. (Empowered Artist Revolutionary Theatre) will be conducting performances, readings of original works, and rehearsals! 
Every Friday, 7:30 until 10:00 pm  Tia Chucha's Café Cultural presents Spoken Word/Open Mic night, hosted by Xicano Records and Films and Aztlan Underground. Bring your best verses - free to the public.
Every last Friday of the month Peña Cultural, 7: 31 until 10:01 PM -- Tia Chucha's will have a Peña Cultural with poetry, music, spoken word, and cultural expression, especially geared for Spanish-speaking and bilingual audiences.
Every Saturday, Art Workshops, 10am-4pm  The next series of Art Workshops led by master artist Juan Pueblo will center around the Aztec Calendar, including significance of symbols, modeling, molding, casting and sculpting a large-scale replica of the sun stone. Each class starts with Nahuatlaka Sounds , the sacred ways of our Ancestors through a ceremonial session of music. Come experience this pathway to the heart through music and art! $20 per class.
Every Saturday, Mexica Indigenous Thought, 2-4pm Join in this opportunity to discuss books, have collective discussions and learn from occasional guest speakers.

A Bibliography of Early California and Neighboring Territory Through 1846:
An Era of Exploration, Missions, Presidios, Ranchos, and Indians, Supplement One, 1990-2001
Compiled by Robert LeRoy Santos, California State University, Stanislaus, University Library
Alley-Cass Publications, Turlock, CA, 2002
        This is the first supplement to the 1992 publication, A Bibliography of Early California and Neighboring Territory Through 1846. This supplement contains works that were published from 1990 through 2001. There is some overlapping in that a few of the resources cited were published in 1989 and some in 2002, but by and large, the works cited in this supplement were published from 1990 through 2001.
        The mix of the resources cited remains the same as the original bibliography. One will find books, periodical articles (from 90 historical journals), dissertations, theses, and manuscripts. In keeping too with the original bibliography, there are brief annotations to further explain the contents of the resources if not fully clarified by their titles. This supplement is complete as possible with all avenues of inquiry having been implemented especially the use of electronic databases.
        The format remains the same as the original, in that there are the same chapters and the same usage of item numbering for each citation. There is a useful subject index at the end of the supplement.                                                                                          Sent by Johanna de Soto

CHAPTER XVII   San Francisco, 1847-1850

[[This one paragraph is a perfect example of how land in California changed from one Early Spanish families to Easterners.]]

Under the rule of Mexico lots were granted in Yerba Buena to settlers without other cost than a tax of twelve and a half dollars for a fifty vara and twenty-five dollars for a hundred vara lot. Only one lot was granted to a person and he was required to fence it in and build upon it. With the American occupation the alcaldes granted lots according to the practice of the late government. W. S. Clark, of Clark's Point, who arrived late in 1846, found that the rule prevented him from obtaining more than one lot. According to his own statement he employed a number of persons to apply for lots in their own names and then deed them to him. In this way he obtained possession of a large number. The alcalde, Bartlett, found this out and meeting Clark took him to task for his doings and asked him what he meant by such conduct. Clark informed him that he had spent six months in crossing the plains, that his outfit had cost him a good deal of money, that he had spent six months more in establishing himself in San Francisco, and that he intended to be paid for all the time he had spent and the expense to which he had been put. This declaration of rights settled the alcalde—according to Clark's story. Clark sold twelve of the lots so obtained for five thousand dollars apiece. On September 27, 1847, the council decided that lots should not be forfeited for failure to build and fence, and in October the alcalde's act in granting more than one lot to one person was approved. Some time thereafter thirty-six lots were granted to W. S. Clark and William C. Parker. So well did this enterprising American (Clark) use his opportunity that, in 1886, he was thought to be worth several million dollars. The case of Clark is but an example; he was one of many. A spirit of lawless speculation in lands developed almost immediately upon the raising of the American flag in California, and was the origin of all the confusion over titles to lands in San Francisco. The wise precautions of Spain and Mexico were set aside. The theory that but one lot could be granted to one person, and that if he failed to take actual possession of it and improve it, it would be taken from him and given to another, did not suit the American speculator. All the lots granted within the limits of the present city prior to July 7, 1846, were less than one hundred and twelve. During November and December 1846, the American alcalde granted thirty-four; in 1847, five hundred and forty-two; in 1848, three hundred and ninety-two, and in 1849, nine hundred and forty-nine. After the election of the ayuntamiento, the slow process of granting lots by petition was dispensed with, and they were put up at auction and knocked down to the highest bidder. In this manner, by the 5th of January 1850, three thousand one hundred and fifty-three fifty vara lots, equal to twelve hundred acres of land, exclusive of streets, in and around the heart of the city had been disposed of. [2] Alcalde and council laid aside conscience as a useless encumbrance, and plunged headlong into jobbing and speculation.
                                                                                                            Sent by Johanna de Soto

Tidbit:  Peruvian goat herder, Leoncio Tacza was hired by the San Francisco Utilities Commission to clear brush with his goats.   OC Register, 9-13-02

Sanchez Street was named for Antonio Sanchez, a one-time commandante of the San Francisco Presido. An Indian fighter; his family once owned a 15,000 acre ranch running from today's South San FRancisco to Burlingame. (My grandparents lived on Sanchez Street for 50 years.)

Serra Boulevard was named for Fray Junipero Serra, the San Francisco padre who established the first Alta California Mission at San Diego. He served for years as Father-President in the region. He died in 1784. (Yes, he is the same one that the high school and freeway are named after. The large statue overlooking the Doran Rest Area on I-280 is someones impression of what he looked like during his lifetime.)                                                Sent by Eddie Grijalva  Grijalvaet1@aol.com

        On April 9, 1913, the papers reveal, Villa and a group of rebels robbed a train in Mexico, near southern Chihuahua. The train, which was operated by one of Wells Fargo's Mexican subsidiaries, had been transporting silver bullion for a mining company.
        The documents, which include correspondence between Wells Fargo Express, its Mexican subsidiary and Villa's team, also detail the actual ransom arrangements, made behind closed doors, between Villa and Wells Fargo.
        "There was quite a bit of documentation on internal policy and negotiation," said Brem, adding that the documents provide a valuable insight into the way business was conducted at the beginning of the century.
        In the resolution reached in the letters, Villa agreed to return the silver he and his band of ruffians had stolen, then worth nearly $160,000, in exchange for a ransom of $50,000 paid in cash pesos. Villa ended up only returning 93 bars of silver, but claimed his men had stolen the other 28.
        The acquisition of so much cash allowed Villa to re-arm himself and facilitated his re-entry into the Mexican revolution after having been exiled to El Paso.
        The correspondence also gives people a glimpse of the chaos and destruction that were prevalent during the Mexican Revolution, as well as the business practices of the day, Brem said.
        Wells Fargo originally kept quiet about the whole deal -- even denying responsibility for the transaction in one of the letters -- for fear of being accused of "aiding and abetting" Mexican revolutionaries.                                                           Sent by Ed Flores  Orbenz@aol.com

California Mission Studies Association    http://www.ca-missions.org/index.html

For the Study and Preservation of the California Missions, Presidios, Pueblos, and Ranchos and Their Native American, Hispanic, and Early American Past.     

SONOMA COUNTY INDEX TO JUDGMENTS  http://rootsweb.com/~cascgs/judge.htm
        For those of you interested in Sonoma County data, we have just posted an index to Judgments. Beginning in 1852 in Sonoma County, California debtors were taken to court to settle their debts. Early records remaining in the office of the Sonoma County Recorder for the period 1852 to 1917 are preserved in large leather-bound books, currently kept in a locked case. They are  well- preserved and include an index titled, "Transcript of Judgments," and four volumes, P, Q, R, and S, of actual records titled, "Transcript, Judgment, Judgment Court," that contain the original hand-written
record. This online index is a guide to those records.
Carmen J. Finley, Sonoma County Genealogical Society, Projects Director
                                                                                                                 Sent by Donie Nelson

• Alpine County  
  • 1917 - 1918, Draft Registrations Alpine County
• Contra Costa County
  • Contra Costa Births, Deaths, Marriage Search Menu
• Del Norte County
  • 1933 California Conservation Corp. Members
• Marin County
  • 1880 Great Register of Marin County
• Mariposa County
  • 1850 Federal Census Mariposa County
  • 1874 Delinquent Tax List Mariposa County
  • 1917 - 1918, Draft Registrations Mariposa County
                                                                                              Sent by Johanna de Soto

NORTHWESTERN UNITED STATES

http://utstcess.dced.state.ut.us/NEWBURIALS/SilverStream/Pages/pgStandardSearch.html
Sent by Johanna de Soto

Hispanic Broadcasting to buy 5 stations in New Mexico, August 27, 2002  
        DALLAS (Reuters) - Hispanic Broadcasting Corp., the No. 1 U.S. Spanish-language radio broadcaster, on Tuesday said it will buy 5 radio stations in New Mexico for about $22.5 million as it increases its coverage of the Latino audience in the Albuquerque area
        The company, which is in the process of being acquired by Univision Communications Inc., sees closing the transaction during the fourth quarter. It plans to finance the deal with cash and bank borrowings.   The five FM stations in Albuquerque , considered the 19th largest Hispanic market in the United States , were purchased from Simmons Media Group.  

• Jacket - Front Photo
• Map
• Title Page
• About the Author…
• Table of Contents (As in the book)
• Preface
• Acknowledgments

• PART I. THE MISSION
• 1. Founding a Jesuit Mission Near Tucson, 1694–1756
• 2. Continued Jesuit Proselytizing, 1756–1767
• 3. Garcés' Franciscan Mission Branch, 1768–1779
• 4. Brick-and-Mortar Missionaries, 1779–1790
• 5. Franciscans at Work, 1790–1821
• PART II. THE PRESIDIO
• 6. Founding the Royal Spanish Post of San Agustín del Tucson, 1766–1779
• 7. Fighting Apaches: Offense and Defense, 1778–1782
• 8. Harassing the Western Apaches, 1782–1792
• 9. Peace With the Western Apaches, 1793–1821
• 10. Peacetime Presidio, 1793–1821
• 11. Religion at the Royal Fort of San Agustín del Tucson, 1779–1821.
• 12. The End of Spanish Colonial Rule at Tucson, 1821
• PART III. POPULATION DYNAMICS
• 13. Northern Piman Population Trends at Tucson, 1690–1821
• 14. Population Dynamics at the Tucson Military Post, 1776–1797

• PART IV. SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
• Appendix: Tables, Inventories and Charts
  • INVENTORY 1 Itemized List of The Vessels of This Church of the Royal Post of Tucson [1797]
  • INVENTORY 2 Inventory of file Sacred Vessels, Vestments and Other Valuables Which the Chapel of the Royal Post of Tucson Contains [1820]
• Notes to the Chapters
• Bibliography
  • Printed Works
  • Manuscripts
• Index                                                                                       Sent by Johanna de Soto

HispanicOnline The Arizona Republic. All rights reserved Gannett Co. Inc.

Arizona school board apologizes for ban on Spanish, Efe - August 27, 2002

        Phoenix, Aug 27 (EFE) - Board members of the Isaac School District on Tuesday apologized to Hispanic parents and assured them they will not prohibit the use of Spanish in public schools. "I will never back any type of measure that prevents students or teachers from using their native language," school board president Catherine Rivera said.
        Rivera assured parents that the board will seek a formal investigation into a recent incident at a school in Isaac, Arizona, in which the principal prohibited the use of Spanish in certain areas of the school. Rivera noted that at no point will students or teachers be reprimanded for speaking Spanish on school grounds.
        The principal of PT Coe Elementary, Lesa Thomas, last week prohibited teachers and students from speaking Spanish on the school's playground, as well as in the cafeteria, hallways and classrooms.
        According to Thomas, her decision was within the framework of Proposition 203, which was passed in 2001, repealed bilingual education laws in the state and required all classes in the state to be taught in English.
        The move by the principal prompted many parents to file complaints, as did many teachers, who were even prohibited from speaking Spanish to parents. The school, which offers kindergarten through fifth grade, is located in the Isaac Elementary School District, where the student population is 95 percent Hispanic.
        Eleanor Eisenberg, who heads the Arizona chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), sent a letter to district superintendent Paul J. Hanley stating that prohibiting teachers from speaking Spanish during "informal" activities was a violation of their constitutional rights, as well as those of the students.
        Hanley had declared publicly that the purpose of Proposition 203 was to teach students English, so the teachers should lead by example. According to the proposition, all students must receive their schooling in English and native Spanish speakers should take a year of intensive English.
        Only students who have exhibited a sufficient knowledge of English may seek special permission to take bilingual classes. Leonard Basurto, the director of bilingual educational programs for the Tucson Unified School District (TUSD), called Thomas' measure racist. "We are moving back in time. We are returning to the times when we were scolded and humiliated for speaking Spanish," he said.                                             Source:  HispanicOnline  Copyright 2002 Efe. All Rights Reserved. 

Fort Logan National Cemetery, Denver, Denver County, Colorado  Total records = 73,640
http://www.interment.net/data/us/co/denver/logan/index.htm
3698 South Sheridan Boulevard, Denver, CO 80235   (303) 761-0117
U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs Database: Records of burials were provided to this website by the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs. These records may not represent the complete list of burials, only those that are on file with the VA. Reports of any errors should be directed to them.
                                                                                                           Sent by Johanna de Soto

• the Amistad Case
• Black Family Research: Using the Records of Post-Civil War Federal Agencies at the National Archives
• Documentation of Slavery and the Slave Trade in Federal Records
• Documenting African Americans in the Records of Military Agencies
• Freedmen's Savings and Trust Company Records
• Freedmen's Bureau Records
• Marriage Registers of Freedmen
• More Black History Web Links                                                      Sent by Johanna de Soto

Internet Sites That Link To
Slave Movement During the Eighteenth and Nineteenth Centuries
http://dpls.dacc.wisc.edu/slavedata/slalinks.html
Sent by Johanna de Soto

        WASHINGTON – A federal judge Tuesday held Interior Secretary Gale Norton in contempt for failing to heed his order to fix oversight problems with a trust handling hundreds of millions of dollars in royalties from Indian land. U.S. District Judge Royce Lamberth called the department's handling of the Indian money and the action of government attorneys in the case disgraceful.
        Speaking in Phoenix at an Indian economic-development event, Norton said the ruling applies more to events that took place prior to the Bush administration, and that she might appeal. Norton is the third Cabinet officer that Lamberth has held in contempt over the trust fund. Former President Clinton's Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt and Treasury Secretary Robert Rubin were held in contempt in 1999.
        The government has acknowledged major faults with the trust fund. The Interior Department has spent more than $600 million since 1996 to comply with instructions from both Congress and Lamberth, but problems persist.  
        During a 29-day trial that ended in late February, Norton asked Lamberth for more time to make fixes. Instead, he expanded the court's oversight of the trust reform efforts. He set a deadline of Jan. 6, 2003, for the department to submit plans for an accounting and overhaul of the trust fund and scheduled a trial for May 2003 to determine what other actions the court should take. Lamberth also ordered the government to pay the plaintiffs' attorneys fees.
        The trust, which now handles funds for about 300,000 American Indians, began in 1887 when Congress took 90 million acres from Indian tribes and gave the land to white homesteaders. The Indians were left with allotments from 40 acres to 320 acres, with the Interior Department assigned to manage grazing, timber and oil and gas drilling, and ensure Indians received royalties for those activities.
        For more than a century, an untold amount of money was lost, stolen or never collected. Indians sued in 1996, claiming the mismanagement cost them between $10 billion and $40 billion.
                                                                                       Sent by Eddie Grijalva  Grijalvaet1@aol.com  

You can use your browser's email program to send a message to Harrison at lapahie@hotmail.com or Nilda at nilda@lapahie.com.   http://www.lapahie.com

Dear Mimi, I just spoke to someone who wishes to find a source to begin a search into her Native American background as well as her Spanish/Mexican. I have your website to give her. While I have several Spanish/Mexican sources, have you any Native American I could pass along to her? I appreciate your help and all the information you funnel to us amateurs! 
Thank you. Marilyn Yorba Lasker. mblasker@pacbell.net

Hi Marilyn:
        Mimi forwarded your message to me. I suppose the big question I need to ask you about is "where in Mexico do your interests lie?" Mexico is very big and very diverse and even today, the Indians of Mexico, who make up about 10% of the population, speak about 287 languages or dialects....and that doesn't even count that the majority of the population is itself descended from the indigenous people, but have experienced assimilation over the centuries...
        So if you were from Sonora or Sinaloa, the Mayo, Yaqui and Opata and other Indians may interest you. If your people came from the area around Mexico City, the Mexica may interest you.. if your family came from Michoacán, the Tarascan (Purhépecha) Indians would be of interest....if you have ancestors from Oaxaca, then the Zapotecs and Mixtecs may interest you, but Oaxaca is so diverse that you might be better off reading the article that I wrote about Indigenous Oaxaca last year;
        While the Indians in most parts of Northern and Central Mexico are culturally extinct, with the exception of the Huichols, Coras, Tepehuanes, Yaquis, Tarahumaras, you can find out from certain books the groups that were indigenous to particular areas....Peter Gerhard's "The North Frontier of New Spain" would be especially good for this.  At any rate, I hope this explanation helps out a bit and if you have some specifics, let me know.
        Marilyn: I forgot to mention that I just published a book "Mexican-American Genealogical Research: Following the Paper Trail to Mexico," published by Heritage Books, which spent  two chapters discussing records of Indians and mixed-raced individuals in Mexico.. I show the records of some Yaquis and Apaches...but, as a rule, most Indians were classified simply by the generic "indio" or "india" because they had become assimilated as Christian Indians under Spanish rule and lost their loyalty to their old pagan ways and identity.  . . . . . . John
        Look below for a listing of articles written by John and published in Somos Primos.

• Indian Bounty Land Applications
• Indian Census Rolls, 1885-1940
• Dawes Commission: 64,177 applications submitted between 1898 and 1914 for enrollment in the Five Civilized Tribes (Note: Includes Cherokee, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole applications only. There is no description in NAIL relating to the fifth tribe - Choctaw.)
• Dawes Commission and the Enrollment of the Creeks
• Final Rolls of the Citizens and Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes in Indian Territory
• Index to Final Rolls of Citizens & Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes in Indian Territory
• Index to Applications Submitted for the Eastern Cherokee Roll of 1909 (Guion-Miller Roll)
• Wallace Roll of Cherokee Freedmen in Indian Territory, 1890
• Kern-Clifton Roll of Cherokee Freedmen, January 16, 1867
• 1896 Citizenship Applications: 9,618 applications received by the Dawes Commission
• More Native American history links,
                                                                                                   Sent by Johanna de Soto

Family Tree, Volume XI No. 4, August/September 2002

Learn about  Native American and European genetic markers on the web. 
Here are a couple of the websites that discuss genetic markers in regard to
http://www.wf.net/~jyates/teeth.htm  http://www.members.tripod.com/~wynkoop/webdocs/native.htm
.
        Lenape Language Project Continues In an attempt to keep tribal members up to date on what is being done with the Lenape Language Project, Director Jim Rementer has prepared the following
update:  Classes: We plan to begin classes in the fall on the Conversational Lenape. > If you are interested in attending these classes, please call us at  918-336-5272, extension 503.
CD-Rom Project: One of the projects we are working on is a CD-ROM Collaborative Project. We are working with some members of the Miami Tribe's Language Project (the Miami language is related to Lenape) to produce a CD  which can be used on your home computer, or at schools and libraries, to
give basics of the Lenape language.
        Mini-Dictionary: We have recently published the Conversational Lenape Mini-Dictionary. This is compilation of the words that were taught in the conversational Lenape classes. Jan Brown did the layout on the computer, and she used it to produce this 48 page mini-dictionary. The Mini-Dictionary
is available through the Delaware Tribal Gift Shop for $2.00. Call 918-336-5272, ext. 244.
        Phrase Book: This is the next project we hope to make available to tribal members. Like the Mini-Dictionary this will be a pocket size book which is convenient for easy access and study.
        Indian Census Schedules are now Available on microfilm Indians enrolled in tribes and living on Indian Reservations are found in NARA microfilm publication M595, Indian Census Rolls, 1885-1940 (692 rolls). These census rolls were usually submitted each year by agents or superintendents in charge of Indian reservations, as required by an act of July 4, 1884 (23 Stat.98). The data on the rolls vary to some extent, but usually given are the English and/or Indian name of the person, roll number, age or date of birth, sex, and relationship to the head of the family. Beginning in 1930, the rolls also show the degree of Indian blood, marital status, ward status, place of residence, and sometimes other information. For certain years-including 1935, 1936, 1938, and 1939-only supplemental rolls of additions and deletions were compiled.
        There is not a census for every reservation or group of Indians for every year. Only persons who maintained a formal affiliations with a tribe under federal supervision are listed on these census rolls. Indians will also be found in microfilms publications T626, Fifteenth Census of the United
States, 1930 (2667 rolls).
        The BIA Guide Available for Native American Research The Bureau of the Indian Affairs has long been the custodian of tribal records and maintains a small set of pages to help you with your
genealogical research. There are good basic steps to beginning your research, tips on how  to proceed as you seek documentation, and some good information on tribal enrollment. There is even a special page on Cherokee ancestry. But, best of all, the pages are dotted with links - both online and off - to repositories and agencies that can help with research.  See: BIS: Doing the Genealogical Research at following web site: www.doi.gov.bia/ancestry/genealog_research.htm and Our Native
Americans:  Their Records o Genealogical Value at http://www.everton.com/shopper/specials.php.

Christopher Columbus and the Participation of the Jews in the Spanish and Portuguese Discoveries by Dr. M. Kayserling, Budapest 1893 

Back Cover of Book 

        The classic work by the great German historian on the contributions of the Jews to the epic voyages of Christopher Columbus, Prince Henry the Navigator, Vasco Da Gama, and other explorers who transformed the world.
        The invaluable assistance provided to Columbus by certain prominent Jews of his day--the cartographer Jehuda Cresques, the astronomer Abrajham Zacuto, the scholar Isaac Abravanel, and the Converso financier Luis de Santangel whose family suffered at the hands of the Inquisition, and others--makes for captivating reading.
        Using original documents, Kayserling also demonstates how Columbus's second voyage was made possible through the gold and silver confiscated from the Spanish Jews expelled in 1492. One such list of confiscated items includes jars of gold, Torah mantles made of silk, silverware, pearl strings, bracelets and brooches, and even silver buttons.
        It is this scholarly mastery of the subject material that makes Kayserling's book such a informative reading experience.     http://www.carmihouse.com/columbus.html

EXPULSION OF THE JEWS FROM SPAIN

"And we further order in this edict that all Jews and Jewesses of whatever age who reside in our domains and territories, that they leave with their sons and daughters, large and small, of whatever age, by the end of July of this year, and that they dare not return to our lands, not by way of passage nor trespass upon them in any manner whatsoever. Any Jew who does not comply with this edict and is to be found in our kingdoms and domains,or who returns to the kingdom in any manner, will incur punishment by death and confiscation of all their belongings..."

--from the Edict of Expulsion signed by Queen Isabella of Castile and King Ferdinand of Aragon, March 31, 1492, Granada, Spain
http://www.carmihouse.com

http://www.cemetery.state.tx.us/pub/database.htmexae Cemetery - Search By Name

This form allows you to search the database for a specific individual. Enter the first few letters of the individual's last name, or select one of the eligibility criteria to receive a list of people meeting that criteria. When you are done, hit the Search button.

[[This project seems dedicated to political,  military leaders, soldiers, and widows of soldiers.]] 
                                                                                                                                                    Sent by Johanna de Soto

Hi-Plains Genealogical Society, Plainview (Hale County), Texas
Information about the Hi-Plains Genealogical Society
http://www.texasonline.net/unger/geneal.htm
Located on the balcony of the Unger Memorial Library, public library of the City of Plainview, Texas

Research assistance regarding Hale County obituaries, family histories, and newspaper articles is available.  Write: Hi-Plains Genealogical Society, Unger Memorial Library, 825 Austin Street, Plainview, TX 79072-7235     Phone: (806) 296-1148, 
E-mail: johnsigwald@texasonline.net John Sigwald, Librarian, Unger Memorial Library

INDEX: HeritageQuest Online (in-library access only)  
HeritageQuest Online is designed specifically for patrons in public libraries who are either just beginning their family research or who after years of work are still uncovering their past. With over 25,000 books, the entire US Census, and other expanding collections, HeritageQuest Online gives any library the chance to tap in to one of the largest collections of genealogy material in the country.

Adames, Jose Maria 
Aguinaga, Luciano Fallecio ala edad de 28 anos en 1924. 
Almacer, F. Agusto 12, 1921 edad 41 anos.
Alonzo, Maria Estrada Sept. 23, 1924 - Feb. 22, 1955
Alvarado, Consuelo H. 1927 - 1987
Alvares, Rosario Sr. Nacio el 1857 Fallecio el 1936
Alvarez, Corine Dec. 7, 1925 Sept. 18, 1976 
Alvarez, Florentina Alvarez, Herminia J. Born & Died Jan. 27, 1961 
Alvarez, Jacabo V. Nov. 28, 1898 - July 18, 1979 
Alvarez, Juan Feb. 8, 1892 Enero 20, 1961 
Arizpe, Maria Born 1875 - Died 1928
Astran, Saragoza Nacio Mayo 5, 1918 Fallecio Marzo 13, 1919 
Aves, James Nov. 19, 1953
Ayala, Angelita Fallecio Mayo 26, 1933 Edad 60 anos 
Ayala, Catalina Z. Mar. 22, 1911 Oct. 16, 1995 
Ayala, Dolores Zamacoma (Madre) Marzo 19, 1880 - Oct. 9, 1960 
Ayala, Gala July 1, 1919 Ayala, Luis Z. June 21, 1907- July 8, 1980 
Ayala, Maria R. Ayala, Ruperto Z. Mar. 27, 1913 - Mar. 24, 1965 
Balderas, Andres Nacio Nov. 29, 1920 - Enero 16, 1938 
Balderas, Bascillo 1888 - 1972 (a footstone) 
Balderas, Juana 1894 - 1960
Balderas, Matilde Nacio Feb. 8, 1918 Fallecio Feb. 8, 1935 
Barrios, Mary Elena Sept. 5, 1962 Daughter of Mike & Mary 
Barrios Boteo, Mariano Nacio en Feb. 26, 1860 Fallecio Sept. 23, 1914 |
Aqui descansen los restos del finado Mario Boteo 
Boyle, Cecile In memory of my dear mother and brother. 
Boyle, Charles Boyle, Hugh Died Apr. 23, 1889. Aged 60 years. 
Calderon, Jacinto Jr. Jan. 19, 1990 - April 21, 1992 
Cano, Santiago El Sr. 5-10-1894 Tica 1927 
Cano, Santiago U.S. Army WW II May 22, 1911 - Apr. 2, 1986 
Carrillo, Minerva Y. Mar. 1, 1944 - Apr. 29, 1944 
Casarez, Isabel Gonzales 1922-1991. 
Wife of Lupe Casarez, Viviana Dec. 2, 1887 - May 2, 1956 
Castillo, Jose Angel 10-2-1871 - 2-23-1943 
Caudillo, Maria Peregrina La nina 1 Jun 1923-3 Jun 1923 
Cavazos, Maria D. Nov. 18, 1888 - Nov.4, 1968 
D.E.P. Cazares, Sabina April 15, 1947 
Cervantes, Anthony Mar. 24, 1962 - April 14, 1993 
Cervantes, Mary Alice Dec. 3, 1958 - Dec. 17, 1959 
Cimental, Eduvigen H. Sra. 1928-1965 
Cimental, Epifanio 1920 -1965 
Cisneros, Francisca La Senorita -4 Oct. 1902-Feb. 14 1917. 
Contreras, Mary Carmen Born Jan. 15, 1944 - Died Dec. 13, 1960 
Corpus, Daniel May 28, 1963 - August 27, 1963 
Corpus, Pablo Dec. 7, 1946 - Sept. 4, 1973 
Corpus, Ricardo PFC. U.S. Army WW II Feb. 17, 1917-Jul. 22, 1980 
Corpus, Robert Joe Oct. 15, 1968 - Dec. 3, 1992 
Corpus, Seldonia Mar. 3, 1894 - Nov. 11, 1963 
Cortinas, Benito Sr. April 3, 1897 - Oct. 30, 1977 
Cortinas, Epifania A. Jan. 10, 1911 
Cortinas, Joe Jr. Jan 25, 1938 - June 28, 1953 
Craven, Robert W. 1959-1974 
Davila, Santiago Nov. 8, 1891 - Aug. 2, 1971 
Davila, Virginia June 24, 1893 - Sept. 4, 1971 
De La Crus, Unosequio Descanse en pas 
De La Cruz, Eduardo Agusto 27, 1880 - Mayo 26, 1901 
De Leon, Elizabeth Aug. 27, 1979 - Dec. 10, 1980 
De Leon, Juan G. Jan. 10, 1950 - Aug. 5, 1974 
Deleon, Pablo A. March 16, 1920 - Oct. 26, 1990 
Delgado, Refugio Murio de la edad de 76 anos, 1 de Nov. 1923 
Diaz, Clemencia La nina Nacio 1-23-40 Fallecio 3-24-40 
Diaz, Micaela P. VDA. de Diaz Sept. 29, 1843 - Sept. 24, 1914 
Donneley, Louisa Born Feb. 27, 1865 - Died Sept. 5, 1896 
Duncan, Robert Tom PVT. U.S. Army WWI Oct. 31, 1895-Nov. 23, 1981 
Endie, Ecio 1927 ala edad de 36 
Enriquez, Hilaria R. Oct. 21, 1877 - Mayo 10, 1919 
Enriquez, Luz Mayo 12, 1869 - Dic. 1, 1958 
Ernandez, Facundo 1-27-1930 - 9-20-1945 
Escareno, Faustino Father July 7, 1896 - April 11, 1932 
Escareno, Josefa Jan. 23, 1912 - Apr. 15, 1989 
Escareno, Juanita Aug. 15, 1928 - Aug. 20, 1928
Escareno, Marcisco Oct. 29, 1906 - May 18, 1982 
Escareno, Marcisco Jr. SP4 U.S. Army Oct. 1, 1952 - Aug. 10, 1986 
Escareno, Mercedes B. Sept. 24, 1884 - Sept 19, 1947 
Estrada, Antonio Fallecio a la edad de 57 anos. 
Estrada, Antonio Q. Jan. 19, 1907 - Dec. 3, 1962 
Estrada, Carmen Q. (Madre) Enero 23, 1879 - Oct. 6, 1957 
Estrada, Manuel Nacio 3-21-1818 - Fallecio 4-21-1918 
Estrada, Maria R. Nacio 1916 
Farrell, Mary A. Sept. 12, 1868 - Dec. 6, 1882 
Farrell, Thomas Died Feb 8, 1893 Aged 28 yrs and 2 months 
Fernandez, Alicia Nina 11-25-1930 - 11-1933 
Fernandez, Alvara E. Mrs. (mother) Sept. 28, 1888 - Jan. 26, 1963 
Fernandez, Fidel Mar. 16, 1884 - Nov. 2, 1941 
Fernandez, Juan Mar. 21, 1934 - Dec. 8, 1974 
Fernandez, Maria Ynes 1886 y 9-21-1947 
Flores, Aniceto 3-16-37 A los 80 anos. 
Flores, Antonia Botello April 9, 1890 - Jan. 20, 1926 
Flores, Antonio Sr. July 5, 1922 - Dec. 17, 1991 
Flores, Augustin Jr. Apr. 12, 1927 - Oct.20, 1947 
Flores, Crescencio C. Oct. 24, 1957 June 26, 1994 
Flores, Fidelia Fallecio Oct. 25, 1918 de la edad de 23 anos. 
Flores, Ignacia T. July 31, 1903 - Apr. 22, 1969 
Flores, Joaquin Marzo 1905 - Feb. 3, 1948
Flores, Jose SFDE A. Marzo 19, 1882 - Febrero 12, 1931 
Flores, Juan El 18 de Agusto de 1878 y El 30 Septiembre 1929 
Flores, Juanita M. Fallecio 1913 a la edad de 18 anos 
Flores, Lucio July 8, 1966 Infant son of Manuel Elodia Flores 
Flores, Manuel T. TX PVT US Army WW II Dec. 8, 1919-Apr. 14, 1974 
Flores, Otilia A. Apr. 26, 1940 
Flores, Sostenes Nov. 26, 1890 - May 18, 1951 
Flores, Tomasa Lopez Sept. 18, 1922 - Enero 20, 1985 
Flores, Valentine Feb. 14, 1934 - Mar. 15, 1963 
Garcia, Antonia N. A los 38 anos Julio 20, 1946 
Garcia, Elida Te fuistes pero no olvida 
Garcia, Jesus El nino En pas descanse 
Garcia, Matilde Fallecio el 1919 
Garza, Alonso Feb. 20, 1881 - Dec. 10, 1971 
Garza, Antonia E. Sept. 2, 1883 - Aug. 29, 1978 
Garza, Francisca Murio 23 de agosto de 1921 a la edad de 13 anos.
Gil, Bentura 4 Julio 1898 Nacio - 28 Octobre 1918 
Gil, Juan Nacio 24 Marzo 1831 - Fallecio 11 Sept. 1918 
Gonzales, ? 1884 - 1958 
Gonzales, Antonio S. July 5, 1901 - Oct. 7, 1973
Gonzales, Apolonio Oct.11, 1913 - Aug. 4, 1983 
Gonzales, Conception T. June 18, 1908 - Feb. 9, 1981 
Gonzales, Dolores El nino 7 April 1922-18 de Enero de 1924 
Gonzales, Elidia 1882 - 1956 
Gonzales, Encarnacion 3-15-1856 - 1-24-1946 
Gonzales, Felix G. Jr. Sept. 11, 1949 - May 13, 1969 TX SP4 HHC 2 Inf. Americal Div. Vietnam BSM PH 
Gonzales, Feliza I. Jan. 14, 1917 - Jan. 10, 1973 
Gonzales, Jacinta 1880 - 1960 
Gonzales, Jimmy Aug. 1971 - 
Gonzales, John L April 17, 1953 - July 4, 1972 CPL U.S. Marine Corps Vietnam 
Gonzales, Lola Feb 7, 1920 Recuerdo de su Esposa, hijos, y hijas 
Gonzales, Manuel S. A la edad de 58 anos 
Gonzales, Marcos 1938-1939 
Gonzales, Pablo D. El nino 3-25-1941 - En 8-2-1945 
Gonzales, Pedro O. El nino 7-27-1937 en 8-2-1945 
Gooden, J.W. April 12, 1868 - Nov. 6, 1940 
Granado, Anita P. 1846-1951 Un recuerdo de la familia Ayala 
Granado, Romualdo 1830-1919 Un recuerdo de la familia Ayala 
Guerra, Lucinda Ann Aug. 16, 1964 - Sept. 28. 1966 
Guerra, Maria Lopez Sept.24, 1909 - Oct.7, 1984 
Guerrero, Alfredo Oct. 2, 1911 - Apr. 7, 1975 
Guerrero, Benita April 3, 1905 - Aug. 24, 1985
Guerrero, Herminia Lopez Senora Recuerdo de sus familiares 1936
Guerrero, Jesusita Sept. 22, 1922 - Nov. 11, 1942 
Guerrero, Marcos Apr. 25, 1886 - Oct. 19, 1957 
Guerrero, Maria Guadalupe Apr. 18, 1957 - Nov. 5, 1972 
Guevara, Pedro Martinez Feb. 13, 1952 - June 21, 1981 
Gutierrez, Clemencia R. May 17, 1894 - Apr. 6, 1985 
Hays, Homer L. June 19, 1901 - Dec. 18, 1953 
Hays, Margaret F. November 17, 1905 - Oct. 11, 1948 
Hernandez, Angelita Valdez Descanse en pas. 
Hernandez, Carol Caye Gawronski Aug. 4 1939 - May 28, 1985 
Hernandez, Felipe May 1, 1925 - Oct. 17, 1977
Hernandez, Gertrudes 15 de Nov. 1922-18 de Junio 1948 
Hernandez, Guadalupe May 9, 1923 - Mar. 27,1947 
Hernandez, Jesus 3-15-1877 en Mexico 7-19-1941 en Luling, Tx. 
Hernandez, Joaquin A. (Jack) July 6, 1965 - Jan. 16, 1987 
Hernandez, Joaquin Mendez Aug. 16, 1933 - Sept 12, 1978 
Hernandez, Julia R. Fall. el 14 de Aug. 1947 ala edad de 65 anos. 
Hernandez, Louie Aug. 12, 1882 - May 31, 1966 
Hernandez, Martin Jan 20, 1920 - Feb. 3, 1989 PVT. US Army WW II 
Hernandez, Sara Ann May 23, 1990 - Feb 15, 1991 
Hibarra, Gregorio a la edad de 20 anos Nacio 9 Mayo 1910-1931 
Hidalgo, Francisca 1892-1979 Recuerdo de hijo y nieta Frances
Hidalgo, Isaac 1911-1934 Recuerdo de hijo y nieta 
Frances Hidalgo, Leocadio 1888-1981 Recuerdo de hijo y nieta Frances J.R.C. 12-21-46 
Jimenez, Antonio June 13, 1892 - Oct.13, 1971
Jimenez, Antonio June 13, 1937 - June 1, 1980 
Jimenez, Ascencion M. (Chon) Aug. 15, 1923 - Oct 5, 1984
Jimenez, Dominga Sept. 13. 1906 - Nov. 12, 1973 
Jimenez, Esther S. Dec.20, 1951 - 
Jimenez, Jesse J. July 19, 1948 - July 3, 1972 SP4 HHC 315CS 1 Cav. Div. Vietnam 
Jimenez, Jimmie J. May 1, 1956 - May 3, 1966 
Jimenez, Maria July 4, 1924 Sept 4, 1985 
Juagardo, Guadalupe E. Aug. 1, 1905 Nov. 23, 1981 
Kabel, Celeste M. (Mother) July 30, 1913 - Jan. 11, 1988 
LLanas, Timolea Maca 1867 - 1918 
Lopez, Alexander III 1974-1974
Lopez, Barbara G. Madre Jan. 19, 1902 - May 26, 1988 
Lopez, Belen, C. Nov. 8, 1916 - Apr. 12, 1949 
Lopez, Benita A. 
Lopez, Benito A. Nacio el 21 de Marzo de 1934-14 de Feb. 1936 
Lopez, Blas L. Feb. 3, 1886 - May 20, 1966 
Lopez, Casimira S. Mar. 4, 1896 - Sept. 20, 1968
Lopez, Casimiro (Gen.) 3-6-75 - en 4-9-1945 
Lopez, De Valeria March 7, 1882 - May 3, 1924 
Lopez, Eloy G. July 20, 1967 - July 29, 1967
Lopez, Francisca Oct. 9, 1915 - Sept 20, 1938 
Lopez, John Linares Dec. 20, 1920 - July 5, 1991
Lopez, Jose Died 1930 
Lopez, Juanito A. 27 Jul 1926-13 Aug 1927 Sus padres Tomas Lopez y Gregoria Albarez
Lopez, Matilda May 28, 1952 - Jan. 2, 1959 
Lopez, Natividad Oct. 27, 1942 
Lopez, Pantaliona Perez 
Lopez, Petronillo El Ninito 31 Mar 1928-13 Feb 1936 Su padres Tomas y Gregoria Lopez 
Lopez, Sophia Sept. 30, 1917 - June 13, 1937 Su padre U. Lopez 
Lopez, Tomasa Rangel 1896 - 1983 
Lopez, Trinidad H. Aug. 7, 1921 - Dec. 19, 1983 
Macias, Jerry Oct. 23, 1978 - Nov. 6 1978 
Maldonado, Jose L. Jr. May 4, 1945 - Aug. 24, 1976 
'Little Joe' Martinez, Jesus Nacio 5 de Enero 1885 - Murio 9 de Sept. 1908 
Martinez, Victoria Mayo 1, 1933 - Ala edad de 85 anos 
McCornick, William S. March 17, 1864 - Dec. 1 1901 
Mendez, (Baby) 1964 
Mendez, Domingo Nacio 11 Nov. 1936 Fallecio 5 Dic. 1944 
Mendez, Francisco R. Oct. 4, 1908 - April 15, 1948 
Mendez, Joe A. Oct. 20, 1963 - Jan. 1, 1964 
Mendez, Juan Oct. 31, 1963 
Mendez, Pablo R. April 26, 1911 - July 24, 1935 
Mendez, Pedro Nacio el 1892- Fallecio el 13 de Enero, 57 anos 
Mendoza, Atanacio 
Mendoza, Aurelia Nov. 27, 1889 - April 7, 1987 
Mendoza, Gregoria R. Nov. 16, 1890 - Oct. 30, 1975 
Mendoza, Juan Jr. Enero 27 de 1889 - Agosto 10 de 1955 
Mendoza, Luisa R. June 21, 1893 - Sept. 4, 1973 
Mendoza, Maria Mendoza, Tonioza Enero 22, 1918 
Montalbo, Bonifacio 1927 - 1968 
Montalbo, Delores 1964 - 1964 
Montalvo, Luisa Nacio el 21 de Junio de 1885 en la HDA serca de N.Leon y Fallecio en Luling, Tx. Octubre 28, de 1918 
Morales, Jerry (nino) Sus padres T.M. Morales 
Moreno, Eriquio Aqui se hallan los restos de Eriquio 
Moreno. Fallecio Feb. 21, 1919 ala edad de 70 anos.
Moreno, Francisco Fallecio en Abril el dia 12 de 1928, 31 anos 
Moreno, Hilaria 1896 - ? 
Munoz, Maria Nacio 1867 en Leon GTO-Fallecio en 1912, Luling TX 
Murillo, Casimira Jan. 26, 1900 - March 21, 1950 Nasio, V.R. El 19 de Augosto 1926 
Nunez, Antonio 1843 - 1923 
O'Toole, Elizabeth April 5, 1846 - Feb. 19, 1914 
O'Toole, James At Rest Sept. 23, 1872 - Jan. 21, 1901 
O'Toole, John At Rest July 29, 1878 - Jan. 13, 1901 
O'Toole, John At Rest April 10, 1842 - Feb. 7, 1913 
O'Toole, Thomas F. Aug. 23, 1875 - Nov. 27, 1926 
Olesan, Cypad Nacio Dicembre 1919 
Olionrez, Maria May 11, 1906 - May 4, 1954 
Olivera, Catarina Aug. 20, 1921 - Oct. 6, 1985 
Olvera, Teresita S. Mar. 19, 1892 - Dec. 1, 1984 
Olvera, Zacarias Nov. 5, 1885 - Feb. 8, 1962 
Ornond, John March 20, 1865 - ? 
Ortega, Amada La Senorita 4-3-1929 y 3-21-1948 
Ortega, Brigido Oct. 8, 1891 - May 4, 1966 
Ortega, Consepsion Nacio Dic. 8, 1900 - Fallecio Junio 29, 1927 Su esposo Serapio Flores
Pardo, Dolores Sra. 31 de agosto 1931-a la edad de 60 anos 
Peralez, Alvino Na. 1860 - Fa. 1948 
Perez, Leandro Fallecio el 28 de Julio 1945 A los 90 anos de edad 
Perez, Maria Valadez 22 de Julio 1851-23 de Enero 1942. 
Quintero, A. La nina 12-16-22 y 5-4-33 
Quintero, Brijido Oct. 9, 1890 - Aug. 23, 1964 
Quintero, Cleofas April 9, 1887 - July 1, 1979 
Quintero, Magdaleno Nacio Rancho Nuebo N.L. Mexico Julio de 1911 y Fallecio el dia 27 de Nov. 1929 
Quintero, Raul March 29, 1924 - Sept. 3, 1966 Texas PFC 6688PW Admin. Co. World War II 
Quintero, Refugio July 4, 1954 - Aug. 25, 1959 
Quiroz, Carlota Nov. 4, 1900 - May 2, 1972 
Quiroz, Juan Aug. 14, 1963 - Aug. 15, 1963 
Ramirez, Francisco Fallecio Enero 26, 1938 Edad 55 anos 
Ramirez, Santos Nacio 1864 Fallecio 1919 
Ramona, Sra. De sus hijos Rangel, Crusita Razo, Lazaro Infante Dic. 28, 1963 - June 15, 1984 
Retiz, Gil E. Sept. 1, 1898 - April 18, 1957 
Retiz, Ysabel G. Nov. 5, 1903 - March 18, 1958 
Richie, Janie July 16, 1966 - July 16, 1966 
Rocha, Lionides Nacio el dia 11 de Aug. de 1906 Fallecio Mayo de 1936
Rodriguez, Augusta Nacio en 1892 
Rodriguez, Augustin Nacio 1892 Fallecio en 1927, edad de 26 anos. Sus padres Gullermo Rodriguez y Angelita Valdez 
Rodriguez, Consepsion Marzo 25, 1897 - Enero 1, 1923 
Rodriguez, Ermo Sus padres Rodriguez, Hilaria Nov. 1, De 1885-19 de Marzo de 1934. 
Rodriguez, Ida Marie Feb. 1, 1962 - Feb 21, 1962
Rodriguez, Jesusita Sra. Rodriguez, Joe Sr. Pvt. U.S. Army World War II 1914-1977 
Rodriguez, Juan J. July 30, 1910 - March 19, 1972 Texas C.P.L. BTRYA 200 CA BN World War II DSM-DSM-PH 
Rodriguez, Juanita C. Madre 1872 - 1966 
Rodriguez, Leonor Salas Feb. 21, 1908 
Rodriguez, Lupe M. Madre En Memoria De 12-12-1890 - 11-4-1975
Rodriguez, Luz Sr. Enero 21, 1874 - Junio 8, 1965 
Rodriguez, Manuel Oct. 13, 1958 - Dec. 29, 1981 
Rodriguez, Marcelo M. Oct. 13, 1897 - March 18, 1984 
Rodriguez, Mary H. Aug. 1, 1948 - June 8, 1953 
Rodriguez, Natalia A. Madre May 27, 1884 - Jan. 18, 1961 
Rodriguez, Niebes Murio el 21 de Junio 1923 
Rodriguez, Sabino Diciembre 20, 1889 - mayo 5, 1948 
Ryan, Mary died Jan. 16, 1891 Aged 17 years 9 months 9 days Daughter of Patrick and Mary Ryan 
Ryan, Patrick Died Jan. 22, 1891 Aged 43 years 
Salas, Asencion Aug. 15, 1898 - Oct. 19, 1918 
Salas, Felix Juan May 18, 1945 - May 1, 1969 Texas PFC Co. D 3 Mar Div. Vietnam PH 
Salas, Francisca V. Fallecio Julio 3, 1945 edad 83 anos. 
Salas, Gavina M. Feb. 19, 1902 - June 13, 1987 
Salas, Gillermo Feb. 10, 1908 - Mayo 8, 1943 
Salas, Gregorio R. May 9, 1900 - April 16, 1982 
Salas, Lorenza V. Fallecio Julio 31, 1943 
Salas, Margarita Ramirez Mother 1866 - Dec. 15, 1936
Salas, Santos Galindo Oct. 20, 1903 - June 12, 1970 
Salas, Trenida Mother Nov. 12, 1885 - Sept. 16, 1959 
Salasar, Teresa E. La Sra. Fallecio a la edad de 35 anos Asi descanse pa siempre 
Saldana, Pedro 1942 - 1944 Salinas, Benito Dec. 2, 1901 - May 10, 1975
Salinas, Luis Padre - Fallecio Julio 23, 1946. A la edad de 75 
Sanchez, Agustina A la memoria de la nina 1914-1919 
Sanchez, Sebero Fallecio el dia 3 de Octubre de 1928 
Santos Nov. 6, 1936 - Aug. 30, 1982 
Sapata, Refuga Hidalgo July 4, 1915 - Nov. 7, 1941
Schulte, Howard H. May 13, 1941 - April 27, 1984 
Sepulveda, Jose Carmen E. 7-16-1933 - 7-19-1933
Sepulveda, Jose M. Footstone 1904 - 1959 
Sepulveda, Maria Juanita June 26, 1936-April 2, 1937 Sus padres U. Lopez 
Shtrenk, John P. Husband - Dec. 16, 1840 - Feb. 5, 1926 
Shtrenk, Opheled Wife - April 25, 1860 - Sept. 22, 1950 
Soto, Leandro F. July 23, 1947 - March 6, 1976 
Trevino, Felicia 1879 - 1918 
Trevino, Isaac Oct. 20, 1910 - March 20, 1932 
Trevino, Jesus R. Nacio en Coahuila Mexico el ano de 1859 y Fallecio en Luling, Texas el dia 15 de Enero de 1918 
Trevino, Liborio Born about 1914 died about 1919. Hijo de Victor y Antonia E. Trevino 
Trevino, Petra Oct. 19, 1889 - Aug. 9, 1928 
Trevino, Teresita G. Oct. 15, 1936 - July 27, 1937 
Trevino, Victor 3-21-1881 - 5-14-1920 
Turrubrate, Abundio Oct. 19, 1883 - Feb. 15, 1948 
Turrubrate, Maria Sept. 1885 - Feb. 9, 1971 
Turruviate, Juan Aqui descansan los restos de Juan Turruviate 
Valdez, Andrew Jr. Oct 14, 1947 - May 1, 1993 
Valdez, Henry Nacio 9-18-27 - Murio 5-20-29
Valdez, Joe R. Father April 18, 1923 - Aug. 29, 1984
Valdez, Pedro Nacio en Luling, Tx. ell 22 de Dic. de 1891 y fallecio el 19 de Feb. de 1928, O.E.P.D. Valdez, Sebastian Nacio Jan. 20, 1884 - Fallecio Mar. 1, 1939 
Vega, Nicolas Septiembre 10, 1872 - Marzo 28, 1930 
Vega, Norma Sept. 18, 1964 - Dec. 10, 1964 
Vega, Pete Velasquez, Benita Edad 70 anos 1944 
Wilars, D. 1880 - 1921
Wilars, Emiliana V. 1850 - 1921 
Ybarra Footstone Ybarra, Marina C. (Mone) Sept. 9, 1933 - Oct. 16, 1933 
Ybarra, Santos Nov. 6, 1930 - Aug. 30, 1982 
Zamora, Felicitas F. Mrs. May 18, 1907 - Aug. 27, 1979         Sent by Johanna de Soto

Refugio County, Texas: Depositions of Bega, Games and Farias - 1806

Depositions of Manuel Bega, Domingo Games (resident of La Bahia), and Francisco Farias  Bexar Archives  1805. These depositions give age and place of birth for the affiliates, as well as many other names.  http://www.rootsweb.com/~txrefugi     

Lady of Refugio Catholic Church  Marriages  1855 to 1857
Most of these marriages are also recorded in the Clerks records. I think two were not. Also, I believe there is one in the Clerks records, performed by Querat, the Catholic priest, which is not included here. Perhaps, that marriage was recorded in one of the surrounding counties.
                                Sent by George Gause,  ggause@panam.edu and Elsa P Herbeck  epherbeck@JUNO.com

The following is from the Bexar Archives,  translations by R. B. Blake and appear in his collection:
(1) Viana to Elguezabal - Concerning Damian Valenzuela - 1805 
(2) Salcedo to Elguezabal - Concerning Inspection of Presidial Company of La Bahia  1805
(3) Amangual to Elguezabal - Concerning State of Affairs at La Bahia  1805
(4) Amangual to Elguezabal - Concerning Exemption of Certain Items from Taxes  1805
(5) Soldiers of Companies of Bexar and La Bahia - January 28, 1800
(6) Investigation by Indians of Refugio Mission of Cannon Shots near the Coast  1799
(7) Report of Findings by Indians of Refugio Mission  1799
(8) Report of Amangual at La Bahia of 4 Soldiers Who Deserted from Nacogdoches  1804

Refugio, Texas: Unmarried Spaniards - La Bahia - 1790
Refugio, Texas: Spanish Widows - La Bahia - 1790
Refugio County, Texas: Indians, Mestizos, Mulattoes - La Bahia - 1790
Also:
Indians at the Mission, Indians at Our Lady of Rosario (2 leagues from La Bahia), and the Calvary.

Refugio County, Texas: Married Spaniards - La Bahia - 1790

The categories are by  ethnicity and marital status. Married Spaniards includes 56 names. These are married  males, who are heads of households. Other divisions include  widowers, single men and widows. Other ethnic groups include  Indians, Mestizos and Mulattoes. 

The material is included on the Refugio site because at least two  of these Married Spaniards have names that appear on the list  of those who were residents of the Mission at Refugio. Diego Chirino 
is listed in 1790 at La Bahia and a man of the same name is listed by  Oberste as being killed by Comanches at Refugio in 1814. Also, there  is a Jose Maria Uraga on the 1790 La Bahia census, and a man by the  name of Jose Maria Uriaga (varied spelling) is listed by Oberste as  being connected with the Mission at Refugio between 1792 and  1796. 

        Extract of article Raleigh, North Carolina Police: a New Breed of Officer 
                                  by Oren Dorell, The News and Observer Staff Writer

        Eight years ago, Hector Gutierrez lost his way in the Arizona desert after crossing the border from Mexico, but made it to a highway where he waited for the Border Patrol to take him back -- for the third time. Gutierrez was down to his last dollars. He was tired and scared and kept thinking of his father's words before he headed north: "Don't go."  
        The next day, Gutierrez made it across. And now after years of picking fruits and vegetables, a marriage, a college education and U.S. citizenship, Gutierrez, 32, has been hired by the Raleigh Police Department. He will enter the police academy next month and plans to graduate in March as a 
sworn officer.
        Police brass hope he and other Hispanic recruits will help the department reach out to the city's growing Hispanic population. When they graduate from the academy, Gutierrez and at least three other bilingual recruits will join 18 Hispanic officers at the department, which by then will have
about 680 sworn officers.
        Raleigh's Hispanic population grew by 557 percent from 1990 to 2000, and now makes up about 7 percent of the city's nearly 300,000 residents. Raleigh Police Chief Jane Perlov says recruiting minorities is one of her priorities. "We're recruiting a lot of Hispanics from military bases," she said. "We've used radio stations, newspapers and job fairs."
        Another resident, Jose Zermeno, 36, who was born in Mexico but grew up in the United States and is bilingual, told Gutierrez and Shearer that attacks against Hispanic residents are becoming more common. He promised to call if he heard or saw anything. "I really appreciate these guys coming around," Zermeno said. "It builds trust and shows they care. Otherwise people think nobody cares and start arming themselves. That's what I'm worried about."
        Shearer calls Gutierrez "a new breed of police officer."  One of Gutierrez's strengths, Shearer said, is that he knows what other immigrants are going through and they relate to him. 
        First, they tried crossing with about 20 other people by crawling under a fence, but the border patrol easily caught them. Gutierrez and Gaspar eventually crossed successfully near Nogales, Ariz., and took a plane to Orlando, Fla. They arrived so broke they couldn't afford a cab ride into
town and had to call for a ride.  At the airport he was "afraid of everybody" and felt like a complete stranger. "But I was happy also," Gutierrez said. "It's just the feeling of being here. You're secure."  The next day he was picking oranges.
        Gutierrez's routine was to get up at 4 a.m. so he could start work by 7 a.m. and get home by 8 p.m., seven days a week. He picked fruit in the searing sun for $7 a box and earned between $100 and $500 a week, depending on the quality and size of the product. And he lived in migrant worker camps, where the most popular person was the one with the driver's license who could take the others shopping or for a night out.
        Later that year, he traveled to Oswego, N.Y., where he harvested onions, lettuce and berries and took a job in a canning factory. In Oswego he met his wife, Kristin Kurtz-Gutierrez, who he married in 1996.  With marriage, Gutierrez's life changed dramatically. He became a father -- his new wife brought two children into the marriage and they had two more and Gutierrez became eligible for a green card. He went to college at the State University of New York at Oswego, from which he graduated last year with a double major in political science and public safety, and he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. The family moved to Cary in December because Gutierrez prefers North Carolina's weather.
        He said he is anxious to begin the academy so he can become a permanent member of the police department and so he can continue to help Hispanic immigrants. While many people fear police in his homeland, he says they shouldn't worry here. "Many people don't call the police because they think they're going to be deported," he said. "People need to trust the police and be aware that we are here to help them."                                                         Zeke Hernandez  zekeher@juno.com

José Antonio Lopez, S.J., Papers
The personal papers of Lopez, long-time chaplain to the Iturbide family and briefly acting president of Georgetown, contain correspondence and other materials relating to the end of Spanish colonial rule in Mexico including the holograph manuscript of the Manifesto al mundo, the political apologia of Mexican emperor Agustín de Iturbide. Supplemental information regarding Iturbide and his family is contained in a small collection of manuscripts and printed materials acquired in 1994.
1781-1840 * 0.50 linear foot                                                                   Sent by Johanna de Soto

Viceregal and Ecclesiastical Mexican Collection, 1534 - (1770-1820) - 1919 
http://www.tulane.edu/~latinlib/viceregalcoll.html

COLLECTION GUIDE, 3,020 dossiers  Prepared by Ruth Olivera, December 1980.
       The Viceregal and Ecclesiastical Mexican Collection consists of manuscripts relating to the colonial or viceregal period, with emphasis on the years 1770-1820. It is composed of documents of the Catholic Church and records of government which apparently had their origin in the archives of the viceroys, archbishops, and bishops of the New Spain. Types of documents include church records, petitions, litigation records, notarial files, letters, reports, investigations, maps, illustrations, architectural plans, and printed edicts and proclamations.
        Beyond the limits defined by the name of the collection are a certain number of documents of the later national period of Mexico, consisting principally of government decrees. Some documents come from places other than Mexico -Spain, the Phillipines, Guatemala, Cuba, Colombia, Italy- but all are within the time limit of the Spain colonial period.
        Most documents are in Spanish. Some official church documents are in Latin or Italian, while Nahuatl and other Indian languages are also found.
        The subject matter of the collection touches on many aspects of life in the Spanish colony, from the administration of government by the viceroy, Real Audiencia, and local officials to the all pervasiveness of the Church from archbishop to parish priest. There is material relating to the role of the Indian, the social customs of the people, and the development of education, agriculture, mining, and trade.                                                                                            Sent by Johanna de Soto

Biographical Sketch: lmolonga, Jalapa province, state of Veracruz, Mexico, was a native village before the seventeenth century. Through a series of confiscations, evictions, land grants, and purchases, the village apparently ceased to exist and was replaced by the hacienda and sugar mill, San Miguel Almolonga. Sugar cane was being planted on the land before 1602, and in 1608 the viceroy granted permission to hacienda owner Carlos de Sámano y Quiñones to construct the sugar mill. In 1781 San Miguel Almolonga and a neighboring property, the Rancho de Santa Cruz, were joined through purchase by Felipe Montes de Guevara. In 1894 an adjoining property, Tecuan y Tepetates, was annexed to the hacienda under the ownership of Francisco de Paula César.
Scope and Contents Note: Legal and official documents and correspondence pertaining to land tenure and use of several properties in Veracruz state, Cuautla (Morelos state), and Mexico City. Most of the documents relate to San Miguel Almolonga hacienda and sugar mill, Rancho de Santa Cruz, and Tecuan y Tepetates, and span the period 1572 to 1911. San Miguel Almolonga and Santa Cruz records were no longer kept separately after 1781. Also in the collection are documents about properties in the municipalities of Yecuatla, Colipa, and Misantla (Veracruz state) from 1889 to 1941; properties in Cuautla, Morelos (1942-1944); and a beauty salon in Mexico City (1946). Included are land grants, titles, sales and purchase agreements, writs which expedite the eviction of Indians and other inhabitants, wills, and other documents of ownership transfer; inventories (some with lists of slaves by name, age, relationship, and appraised value); judicial papers and records of mortgage and land disputes; requests, licenses and permits to celebrate Mass, utilize Indian labor, and kill cattle for food; official orders; and a small number of financial documents.
Series and Subseries: The Records of the San Miguel Almolonga hacienda and sugar mill are arranged into two series by chronological periods, then further divided into subseries by subject. They are arranged chronologically within folders. The processing of the collection was completed by the Mexican Archives Project staff in March 1994.                                  Sent by Johanna de Soto

                                                                                                           Sent by Johanna de Soto

Transcripciones del Texto Original en el Archivo General de Indias,
Audiencia de Guadalajara 113.
http://home.sprintmail.com/~sanchezj/guad113.htm
(Transcripts of the original text in the Archivo General de Indias, Audiencia de Guadalajara 113.)
More Important Contents:
Cédula de 15/10/1692
Acordado sobre composiciones de teirras y aguas
Cédula de 24 de noviembre de 1735
Invocaron "obedezco pero no complo" clausula para las cédulas
Cédula de 15 de octubre de 1737
Sent by Johanna de Soto

Nombre del Estado 

http://www.tamaulipas.gob.mx/secude/cultura/historia/default.htm

        Uno de los nombres primeros que se le dio a esta tierra, narra la historia, fue el de "Lariab". Región que describe Américo Vespucio en una de sus cartas enviadas a Lorenzo di Pierfrancesco de Medici dentro de un paquete que llamó Mundus Novus. La última carta conocida, la de Soderini escrita por Vespucio, reseña el primer viaje a éstas tierras y es la que cita el primer nombre de este territorio, además da noticias sobre la forma de vida de los pobladores. Para muchos ésta es la más antigua descripción de la geografla tamaulipeca.
        En una de las interpretaciones que se le ha dado a la palabra Lariab, se indica que el vocablo quiere decir "señor" o "señores" en huasteco (en referencia a la traducción de "lab" que es muy similar a "iab" que significa señor). La crónica señala que debió haber sido la forma en que los indígenas se dirigieron a los españoles que llegaron a sus tierras.
        Vale la pena recordar la descripción que Vespucio hace de los pobladores de la "tierra que está dentro de la zona tórrida - que puede interpretarse actualmente como "entre trópicos"- cerca o debajo del paralelo que describe el trópico de Cáncer, donde el polo se eleva de su horizonte 23 grados al final del segundo clima". Tampico se localiza abajo del trópico de Cáncer a 22 grados 13 minutos altitud norte. El sitio exacto que señala Vespucio se localiza cerca de la Barra del Tordo, en la desembocadura del río Carrizal.
               El navegante escribe que para recibirlos se reunieron alrededor de cuatro mil almas, había ahí, dice, numerosas poblaciones e infinitos ríos, selvas y bosques siempre verdes, gran variedad de pájaros de bello plumaje, frutas y animales de todo tipo. Refiere que la población dormía en hamacas, o sea en "redes para dormir". Finalmente Vespucio dice que este puerto y la provincia se llama Lariab.
        El territorio ha sido reconocido en su totalidad o en algunas de sus partes como Reino Guasteca, Provincia de Amichel y Tierra Garayana, Provincia o Gobernación de Pánuco, Comarca de Paul, de Alifau y Ocinan, Médanos de la Magdalena, Costa del Seno Mexicano, Colonia del Nuevo Santander, hoy, Tamaulipas.
        Se le dio este nombre por la existencia de dos sierras de tal denominación; por una parte, la Tamaulipa La Vieja, Baja u Oriental y por otra, la Nueva, Occidental o Moza que hoy se conoce como Sierra de San Carlos. Poco después de la independencia se le llamó simplemente Tamaulipas.
        Pero Tamaholipa también se le denominó a la villa que creó Fray Andrés de Olmos en 1544; a la vez, Tamaholipa era el nombre original de lo que hoy se nombra Arroyo del Cojo, en el municipio de González.  
        Es importante anotar que también se le llamó Tamaulipa a la villa  de San Carlos, cuando ésta se fundó en el paraje conocido como Potrero de las Nueces. En un informe que rindió Lino Nepomuceno Gómez, abogado de la Real Audiencia y cura beneficiado del rey, cuando visitó la colonia del Nuevo Santander en 1770 llamó Tamaulipa a la Villa de San Carlos, según cita el historiador Juan Fidel Zorrilla en su libro Tamaulipas-Tamaholipa editado por la Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas en 1980.(p. 38)
        l nombre de Tamaulipas hasta la fecha, es tema de una polémica muy acalorada entre los historiadores. Para muchos Tamaholipa, quiere decir "lugar donde hay montes altos". Se aduce que su origen se encuentra en la voz huasteca debido a la abundancia de la raíz filológica tam para la formación de varios nombres geográficos de Tamaulipas: Tampico, Tamatán, etc. La preposición tam, señalan los estudiosos del tema, si se une a un sustantivo significa en o en lugar de, como Tampico, de Tam y Pikó (lugar de perros). Prácticamente tal etimología la fundamentan en las palabras de Fray Vicente de Santa María cuando refirió en 1792 que "las dos Tamaulipas, en el idioma de aquellos naturales quiere decir montes altos..."
        Otros autores discrepan de la significación anterior, estos descomponen el nombre de la siguiente manera: TAM-A-HOL-I-PAM: ol, rezar, tam, tercio, monto o mucho: lugar donde se reza mucho.
        Para mediados de este siglo surgió otra interpretación del término: TAM-AHOL-I-PAN que significaría lugar donde rezan los lipanes, en este sentido sería entrar a una polémica más: si los grupos maguaos u olives, que fundaron Tamaholipa, eran descendientes de los norteños lipanes. Punto aún sin estudiar. "Lugar donde se reza mucho", es el significado que éstos últimos historiadores le dan al vocablo.

NOMBRE DEL ESTADO
TEORIAS SOBRE EL POBLAMIENTO
GESTAS
Escandón y La Colonización
REBELIONES INDIGENAS
INDEPENDENCIA
REFORMA 
BATALLA DE PALO ALTO Y RESACA DE GUERRERO
BATALLA DE SANTA GERTRUDIS
REVOLUCION
CRONOLOGIA DE FUNDACION DE POBLACIONES
INFORME
Lea el informe de don José de Escandón al Virrey de la Nueva España sobre los primeros actos culturales en la provincia del Nuevo Santander en 1760.
GOBERNADORES DE TAMAULIPAS                    Sent by Johanna de Soto

3. Capitán Miguel de Ibarra
Conquistador y poblador de N. Galicia; uno de los primeros pobladores y regidor de Guadalajara; encomendero de varios pueblos en la ruta a Zacatecas. 
A. Lugar de origen (Eibar, Durango?)/ año y lugar de fallecimiento.
B. Nombre de Esposa(s) y descendientes.
C. Parentezco con los capitanes D. MARTIN LOPEZ DE IBARRA, FRANCISCO LOPEZ DE IBARRA
PEDRO DE UNZUETA IBARRA y JUAN DE IBARRA.
D. Parentezco con Ortuño de Ibarra y Diego de Ibarra (hermano o tío de Diego?).
E. Existe alguna publicación sobre él, biográfica o genealógica?
F. Existe alguna Información de Méritos, testamento, etc. sobre él?

4. Capitanes D. MARTIN LOPEZ DE IBARRA, FRANCISCO LOPEZ DE IBARRA
PEDRO DE UNZUETA IBARRA y JUAN DE IBARRA.
Estos personajes fueron Gobernadores Interinos y/o subalternos de Francisco de Ibarra según varias fuentes, y son descritos como primos del conquistador y/o sobrinos de Diego de Ibarra; aparecen de 1550-1600 approx. Quisiera saber si existe información sobre:

A. Quiénes fueron sus padres.
B. Cómo y/o cuándo llegaron a N. Galicia y a N. Vizcaya.
C. Nombre de esposas y sus descendientes.
D. Dónde se establecieron.
E. Informaciones de méritos.

H-MEXICO, Grupo sobre historia de México afiliado a H-Net, Humanities and Social Sciences on Line http://h-net.msu.edu   Moderadores: Antonio Ibarra * Felipe Castro
ibarrara@servidor.unam.mx   fcastro@servidor.unam.mx
Consulta Nuestro Sitio Web: http://www.h-mexico.unam.mx
                                                                                  Sent by Peter Carr  tcigen@worldnet.att.net

El 16 de octubre de 1826 el Congreso del Estado de San Luis Potosí expidió la primera de las tres constituciones que han regido a los habitantes del territorio potosino; en este año 2001, la primera versión de la carta magna local cumple 175 años de haber sido expedida; con la intención de que no pase desapercibido este hecho tan importante y trascendente en la historia regional, se ofrece el siguiente texto, cuyo contenido con algunas modificaciones forma parte de un trabajo más amplio, elaborado por el que esto escribe y publicado el año pasado bajo el título: La primera Constitución Potosina, edición facsimilar, editado por el Archivo Histórico del Estado de San Luis Potosí y el Congreso del Estado.

Directa o indirectamente los antecedentes del contenido de la primera constitución potosina proceden de dos fuentes; primeramente, de las constituciones y documentos relacionados dictados en el extranjero y en el propio país; luego de los proyectos y documentos relacionados elaborados en la localidad. De manera más explícita en el primer caso, en orden cronológico se destacan: la Constitución Federal de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica, promulgada el 17 de septiembre de 1787; la Constitución Política de la Monarquía Española, promulgada en Cádiz el 19 de marzo de 1812 y más propiamente el Acta Constitutiva de la Federación Mexicana y la Constitución Federal de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos, estos dos últimos, dictados en 1824. La primera constitución mexicana en la sección segunda, capítulo sexto, artículo 161, párrafo segundo, señaló ser una obligación de los estados publicar por medio de sus gobernadores su respectiva constitución, leyes y decretos. Una vez publicada la constitución federal, rápidamente los estados se apresuraron a difundirla; en San Luis Potosí el Congreso del Estado expidió un manifiesto en el que ordenaba su cumplimiento a la vez que comunicaba la ya próxima publicación de la constitución local.

En el segundo caso se encuentran: una convocatoria fechada en 1824 y enviada por Ildefonso Díaz de León, en ese entonces jefe superior político de San Luis Potosí, a los jefes de los partidos del estado invitándolos a que propusieran individuos de su jurisdicción que tuvieran cualidades para formar la constitución local, y dos o quizá tres proyectos de constitución, uno de ellos, probablemente redactado a finales de 1824 o principios de 1825 por Manuel Gorriño y Arduengo. Su texto comprende 184 artículos más una conclusión, sumando en total 72 diminutas páginas de 9. 5 por 14 centímetros; fue publicado por primera vez en 1825 en la ciudad de México y reimpreso en edición facsimilar en San Luis Potosí en 1990. De los otros dos -si acaso fueron dos, ya que o uno de ellos puede ser el de Gorriño-. Se sabe que la redacción de uno de dichos proyectos fue encomienda del propio Congreso del Estado, quien para ello ordenó formar una comisión que fue integrada por los diputados José María Guillén, José Miguel Barragán y Pedro de Ocampo . No se conoce el contenido total de este proyecto, solo se sabe de algunas correcciones realizadas por el ayuntamiento de la capital. Como se ha dicho, se cree que hubo un tercer proyecto, el cual el 16 de agosto la legislatura local ordenó que fuera publicado; al menos eso se pretendía, lo cierto es que enterados los diputados de esta situación, antes de su publicación manifestaron abiertamente su disgusto, lo cual derivó en serias discusiones y en una división interna a tal grado, que al final se presentaron dos proyectos; uno por parte del diputado José María Guillen y el otro por José Miguel Barragán y Pedro de Ocampo. La respuesta del Congreso del Estado a esta inesperada situación, fue de una actitud conciliadora, sugiriendo que ambos proyectos fueran revisados y unificados. Se cree que el resultado final de esta revisión fue el proyecto que sirvió de base para la versión definitiva de la constitución. Existen indicios de que la extensión del contenido de este proyecto era bastante amplia, cuando menos se habla de que comprendía más de 372 artículos. Sobre el proyecto de Gorriño, todo hace suponer que una copia fue enviada al gobernador, quien a su vez la hizo llegar a las autoridades de los municipios, así lo reflejan algunos acuses de recibo remitidos en 1825 al gobernador del estado, concretamente por Polonio Gutiérrez -quien aparece como integrante de la Tercera Legislatura Constitucional que estuvo en funciones de finales de 1831 a agosto de 1832 y fines de septiembre al 2 de noviembre de 1832-, Charcas, 5 de mayo; José Benito Serrano, Ojocaliente, 12 de mayo, y Manuel Ortiz de Zárate, Gamotes, 28 de septiembre; éste último fue uno de los diputados propietarios que integraron la primera legislatura y además aparece firmando la expedición de la primera constitución potosina.

A los proyectos se agregan las opiniones que sobre los mismos hicieron algunos grupos del gobierno y la sociedad potosina de aquellos tiempos, como ejemplo se encuentra el caso de Ortiz de Zárate, quien dio acuse de recibo de un proyecto, quizá el de Gorriño, y muy probablemente envió algunos comentarios al respecto. Otro ejemplo lo constituyen los comentarios realizados por los integrantes del Supremo Tribunal de Justicia y los asesores del Estado, mismos que fueron dirigidos al gobernador mediante un ocurso fechado el 20 de septiembre de 1825. Por último, el 17 de julio de 1826 la expedición de un decreto relativo a elecciones de diputados para el primer Congreso Constitucional y Cámara de representantes del Congreso de la Unión; documento que no es sino un necesario adelanto del texto de la Constitución.

No se conoce la fecha exacta en que la redacción de la primera constitución potosina fue concluida, el único dato localizado al respecto se encuentra en un oficio fechado el 14 de octubre de 1826, el mismo que fue remitido por la Secretaría del Congreso al gobernador del estado; allí se comunicó el próximo envío del manuscrito, del cuál se dijo, iba acompañado de un decreto sobre la jura. Se sabe que el Congreso del Estado elaboró dos ejemplares manuscritos de la constitución, uno de ellos acompañado del decreto referente a la jura, fue presentado al gobernador por una comisión de tres diputados; sobre este particular existe un documento que señala que dicha comisión pasaría a Palacio la mañana del siguiente día lunes para efectuar allí la firma . Pero en realidad la firma no se efectuó en Palacio de Gobierno, así lo indica una solicitud fechada el 16 de octubre, elaborada por el Gobierno del Estado y dirigida al alcalde primero del Ayuntamiento de la Capital, en ella, se solicitan las instalaciones del Ayuntamiento para la próxima presentación de la Constitución, en razón de hallarse descompuesto el salón que el gobierno tiene en Palacio. La solicitud fue aprobada de inmediato y enseguida el gobernador procedió a convocar a los señores diputados secretarios del Congreso del Estado para que a las once de la mañana hicieran acto de presencia en la sala del Ayuntamiento donde se efectuaría la presentación y firma del manuscrito. Una vez terminado el acto, el mismo día el gobernador ordenó su publicación.

El texto de la primera constitución potosina comprende 273 artículos agrupados bajo diferentes temas; fue redactado durante el ejercicio de funciones del Segundo Congreso Constituyente cuyos integrantes fueron: Francisco Antonio de los Reyes, presidente; Rafael Pérez Maldonado, vicepresidente; Diego de Bear y Mier, Eufrasio Ramos, Ignacio López Portillo, José Pulgar, Pedro de Ocampo, José María Guillén, Mariano Escandón y José Miguel Barragán, diputados; Ignacio Soria y Manuel Ortiz de Zárate, diputados secretarios. Su publicación fue ordenada por Ildefonso Díaz de León, en su calidad de gobernador del estado, cargo que por disposición del Congreso, asumió al poco tiempo de haber sido nombrado jefe superior político.

El 16 de octubre de 1826 el Congreso del Estado expidió el decreto número 53 por el cuál especificó el procedimiento a seguir en la publicación y jura; cabe hacer mención que en su contenido se halla implícita la participación de los responsables de las diversas oficinas del Gobierno del Estado, los ayuntamientos constitucionales y la sociedad en general. Al día siguiente de la expedición de este decreto, el gobernador informó al presidente del Cuerpo Consultivo del Gobierno, que en razón de que el día anterior el Congreso había sancionado y firmado la Constitución, y en cumplimiento del decreto 53 que mandaba que al día siguiente de tal acto los poderes supremos y funcionarios generales deberían jurarla, requería de su presencia en el salón de sesiones del Congreso. El Congreso por su parte, se apresuró a disponer lo necesario para el acto; de tal manera que el mismo día, a través de su Secretaría, envió al gobernador un dictamen emitido por la Comisión de Policía, referente al cumplimento del artículo 4º del decreto número 53, en el cual había quedado especificada la manera en que habrían de colocarse los funcionarios que estarían presentes en la jura de la constitución.

Firmada y jurada la constitución por las altas autoridades del estado y habiendo sido impresos y circulados los respectivos ejemplares a las diversas autoridades del interior del estado y foráneas, el gobernador señaló la forma en que los pueblos deberían celebrar la publicación y juramento; para ello, el 4 de diciembre mandó publicar una circular conteniendo una serie de disposiciones que pueden resumirse de la siguiente forma: los ayuntamientos señalarían tres días consecutivos del mes de diciembre para celebrar tan memorable acontecimiento; durante éstos, se adornarían e iluminarían las calles, habría repique de campanas y de ser posible salvas de artillería; la jura se festejaría en los paseos y diversiones públicas. El primer día se haría la publicación por medio de un bando solemne, para lo cual se formaría una comitiva integrada por la mitad de los regidores, un procurador síndico y el escribano del Ayuntamiento; dicha comitiva sería presidida por el alcalde 1º e iría bajo mazas en las ciudades, villas y pueblos. El segundo día, después de haber leído en voz alta el contenido de la constitución y el decreto 53, se haría el juramento en la plaza principal. El tercer día se haría la jura en la iglesia principal; para ello se cantaría una misa solemne con Te Deum, a la cual asistirían todas las autoridades, corporaciones, empleados y el pueblo en general. Por último, a manera de constancia, de todas las juras debería enviarse doble testimonio al gobierno.

Uno de los testimonios, fechado el 11 de diciembre, corresponde al Ayuntamiento de la Capital y fue dirigido al gobernador del estado. Su contenido entre otras cosas señala que en respuesta a la circular del gobernador de fecha 4 de diciembre de 1826, el Ayuntamiento de la Capital había acordado que en su jurisdicción, los días 26, 27 y 28 de diciembre serían los fijados por esa corporación para celebrar la jura y publicación de la constitución. En dicho documento se informó además sobre los preparativos de celebración propuestos por el Cabildo; estos pueden resumirse de la siguiente manera: en los tres días dedicados para la celebración: la colocación de un tablado en la plaza mayor; iluminación de fachadas del Palacio Municipal, iglesia parroquial, demás oficinas públicas y vecindario en general. En el primero de los tres días dispuestos para las celebraciones, la publicación y exhibición de un bando cuyo contenido explicaría el motivo de las solemnidades; por la noche, la colocación de un tablado y una escogida música que ofrecería un concierto con duración hasta las once. En el segundo día, después de verificar la jura, un paseo, a cuyo término se serviría un refresco a la comitiva encargada de la jura; por la noche, en la plaza mayor, fuegos artificiales de la mejor invención. El tercer día se efectuaría una misa de acción de gracias, en la cuál un orador predicaría el evangelio con analogía a las circunstancias; al término de la misa, la comitiva regresaría al Palacio Municipal, de donde habría salido y allí se serviría otro refresco; por la tarde, un paseo público en donde la banda de guerra tocaría las músicas marciales de los cuerpos militares; por la noche una obra de teatro análoga a las circunstancias.

Para llevar a cabo todo lo anterior, en el mismo documento se incluyó una solicitud del Ayuntamiento al Gobierno del Estado por la cantidad de doscientos pesos, los cuales se dijo, serían destinados para mejorar el puchero de los presos durante los tres días de las celebraciones, y que el sobrante, al término del acto de la jura se invitaría al pueblo en general.

La jura se verificó el día indicado y como prueba del mismo, el día 30 el Ayuntamiento envió el testimonio respectivo al gobernador del estado, en él se informó que el acto había sido efectuado en el recinto de la sala de sesiones del Ayuntamiento a las tres de la tarde del día 26, estando presentes los representantes del Ayuntamiento, los jefes de la Milicia Cívica, curas párrocos y jueces eclesiásticos de la capital y del mineral del Cerro de San Pedro, el provincial de los franciscanos, todos los prelados franciscanos y de las demás órdenes religiosas, el tesorero general de Rentas del Estado, jefes de oficinas del estado, un crecido número de ciudadanos, tanto eclesiásticos como seculares, además de los oficiales de la Guarnición; todos los cuáles pasaron a un tablado – construido, pintado y adornado vistosamente para la ocasión- allí, el secretario del Ayuntamiento leyó el texto de la constitución y el decreto número 53, al término, recibió el juramento de los arriba señalados y por último, el presidente del Ayuntamiento exigió al pueblo potosino el juramento de obediencia bajo la siguiente fórmula:

¿Juráis a Dios guardar la Constitución Política del Estado Libre de San Luis Potosí, decretada y sancionada por su Congreso Constituyente en diez y seis de octubre de mil ochocientos veinte y seis?.

Todos los presentes respondieron afirmativamente y en seguida en señal de regocijo y en un acto que coronó el evento, arrojaron una porción de monedas.

La expedición de la primera constitución potosina no fue celebrada solamente por los potosinos, existen evidencias de que los estados vecinos también tuvieron una participación importante; tal es el caso de Zacatecas, una de las primeras entidades que juraron su constitución; y que por cierto, por muchas razones ha estado ligado históricamente al territorio potosino, las más obvias son la cercanía y límites; quizá por ello elaboró una composición poética -soneto- dedicada a San Luis Potosí celebrando la expedición y jura de la primera constitución potosina. Su contenido revela por un lado una posible influencia de grupos liberales que apoyaron la construcción del federalismo en contra del sistema centralista, por otro lado sus líneas en rítmicas metáforas aluden un pasado histórico glorioso del territorio potosino: la minería, la cual, como acertadamente su contenido señala, no solamente dió origen a la población potosina , sino también fama y fortuna.

La historia de México del periodo de 1824 a 1857 se caracteriza por las constantes pugnas entre los grupos de poder que apoyaron el sistema de gobierno centralista en contra del sistema federal; los saldos de esta disparidad de intereses en mayor o menor grado afectaron la economía, la política y en general todos los aspectos de vida de la sociedad de aquellos tiempos. Sin duda uno de los principales problemas de este periodo tiene que ver con la búsqueda de la construcción de un modelo de país y con la soberanía de los estados, lo cuál generó innumerables desequilibrios; por ejemplo en los diversos momentos en que el centralismo se apoderó del gobierno, inmediatamente los estados quedaron en calidad de departamentos sujetos a la administración directa del gobierno del centro, con esto los congresos, el marco jurídico y las constituciones estatales también fueron suprimidos. En el caso particular de San Luis Potosí, el Congreso local y la aplicación de la constitución fueron interrumpidos en varios momentos: 9 de octubre de 1835 – 19 de noviembre 1846; 10 de febrero de 1853 – 4 de julio de 1857 y en diciembre de 1857 – septiembre de 1860. Del tiempo en que si estuvo vigente la primera constitución potosina se observan dos periodos; el primero comprende del 16 de octubre de 1826 hasta el 9 de octubre de 1835, fecha en que el congreso nacional, al expedir las Siete Leyes Constitucionales estableció el régimen centralista. El segundo periodo inició el 21 de mayo de 1847 al promulgarse el Acta Constitutiva y de Reformas de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos, que en su artículo número 30 dispuso que para el futuro en los estados de la federación seguiría vigente su constitución local; disposición que perduró hasta el 22 de abril de 1853, fecha en que el general Antonio López de Santa Anna dictó las Bases de la Administración de la República, volviendo con ello al sistema de administración centralista.

En julio de 1835 se publicó un dictamen sobre reformas a la constitución; seis años después la Junta Departamental de San Luis Potosí expidió otro dictamen sobre un proyecto de reformas, el cuál fue presentado en 1840 por una comisión de la cámara de diputados; el 10 de septiembre de 1848 los diputados Manuel Hernández de Zevallos, Tomás Ortiz de Parada y Ramón Sáenz de Mendiola presentaron ante el Congreso del Estado un proyecto de reformas, el cual solicitaron se imprimiera y fuera circulado a los ayuntamientos, su propuesta fue aceptada y dos días después la Secretaría del Congreso lo comunicó al gobernador del Estado, al mismo tiempo que solicitó que ordenara su publicación, como en efecto se hizo. La impresión completa de la Constitución en su versión ya reformada no se publicó sino hasta dos años después, concretamente el 15 de abril de 1850 por la 7ª Legislatura, que se encontraba integrada por José María Flores, presidente; Eugenio Sandoval, Joaquín López Hermosa, José María Quintana, José Vicente Liñán, Fernando Santa María, José Pedro de Arcos, José Ignacio Duque, Francisco León, Mariano Martínez, Manuel del Conde y Anastasio Parrodi, diputados; Miguel María Esparza y José María Faz y Cardona, diputados secretarios. Al día siguiente Julián de Los Reyes, gobernador del Estado en turno ordenó su publicación. Los motivos de las reformas efectuadas no quedaron expresados en el texto, tan sólo se apuntó que:

El Congreso de San Luis Potosí, después de oída la opinión de los pueblos por el órgano de sus ayuntamientos y después de haber observado las formalidades y requisitos que prescribe la constitución de 1826, ha venido en reformarla, decretando la siguiente….

Las reformas tuvieron que ver con diversos aspectos cuyo análisis se omite por no ser materia de este trabajo, pero sí hay que decir que la mayor parte se encuentran relacionadas con la eliminación de varios artículos referentes a los mecanismos de elección de diputados al Congreso del Estado, Congreso de la Unión, juntas municipales y juntas de partido; con esta reducción de contenido, la extensión de la constitución quedó en cien artículos, 173 menos que en su versión original.

S O N E T O.

¡Oh SAN LUIS POTOSI! dichoso Estado

Favorecido de la Providencia,

Que ha dado a tu terreno la excelencia

De la riqueza que a otros ha negado

Con mano liberal te ha prodigado

De la sabiduría, virtud y ciencia

Conque tus hijos llenos de prudencia

Tu gran Constitución han acabado.

En ésta tienes toda tu riqueza;

Religión, Libertad, ¡qué gran tesoro!

¡Qué muro inexpugnable!, ¡qué firmeza!

Vale más que la plata, más que el oro:

Ésta delinea toda tu grandeza,

Y ésta publica todo tu decoro.

Zacatecas 1826. Imprenta del Gobierno a cargo de Piña.

Francisco Palou

        A Friar Minor, born at Palma, Island of Majorca, about 1722; died in 1789 or 1790. He entered the Franciscan order at his native place. In 1740 he began the study of philosophy under the illustrious Father Junipero Serra. With the latter he volunteered for the American Indian missions, and joined the missionary College of San Fernando de Mexico early in 1740. 
        With his friend he was also in the same year assigned to the Indian missions of the Sierra Gorda, north of Querétaro, and laboured there until 1759 when with Father Serra he was recalled in order to work among the Indians in the San Sabás region, Texas. For some reason the college failed to accept those missions. Father Palou was therefore employed in the City of Mexico until 1767 when with Father Serra and fourteen other Franciscan friars he was sent to Lower California. 
        In April, 1768, on reaching Loreto, he was given charge of Mission San Francisco Javier. In the following year, when Father Serra proceeded to establish the missions of Upper California, Father Palou succeeded him in the office of presidente or superior of the lower missions. While at the head of the friars in Lower California, he demonstrated his eminent fitness for the position in a protracted struggle with the hostile Governor, Phelipe Barn, whom he held at bay, and whose schemes against the missionaries and Indians he defeated while in the territory. 
        When in 1773 the Franciscans turned the peninsula missions over to the Dominican Fathers, Father Palou joined his brethren in Upper California and acted as superior until the return from Mexico of Father Serra in 1774. 
        In November of that year he accompanied Captain Rivera's exploring expedition to the Bay of San Francisco, and on 4 December, planted the cross on Point Lobos in view of the Golden Gate and Pacific Ocean, the first priest to reach that point. In June, 1776, he accompanied Lieutenant Moraga to the same bay, and on June 28, offered up the first holy Mass on the spot later under the Mission Dolores or San Francisco, which Father Palou founded a few weeks after. 
        He remained in charge until July, 1784, when he was called to Mission San Carlos in order to administer the last sacraments to his fatherly friend and superior, Father Junipero Serra. When the latter had passed away on 28 August, 1784, Father Palou became acting presidente of the missions. Age, ill-health, and the necessity of having an experienced advocate near the vice-regal court to defend the rights of the Indians and their spiritual guides against the assumptions of the governor, induced Father Palou to retire to the College of San Fernando in September, 1785.
         In July of the following year he was elected guardian of the college, and held this office until his death. While in charge of Mission San Francisco he compiled his "Noticias" in four volumes. It is the standard history of the California missions from 1767 to 1784. At San Carlos Mission he wrote the Life of Father Serra which contains the history of the first nine missions, San Diego to San Buenaventura.

PALOU, Noticias de la Antigua y Nueva California, I-IV (San Francisco, 1875); PALOU, Relación Histórica de la Vida del Ven. P. Fr. Junipero Serra (Mexico, 1787); Santa Barbara Mission Archives; California Archives (San Francisco); Archbishop's Archives (San Francisco); ENGELHARDT, Franciscans in California (Harbor Springs, Mich., 1897); IDEM, Missions and Missionaries of California, I (San Francisco, 1908); II (San Francisco, 1911); BANCROFT, History of California, I (San Francisco. 1886).  ZEPHYRIN ENGELHARDT.  
Transcribed by Douglas J. Potter  Dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of the Blessed Virgin Mary
                                                                                                 Sent by Johanna de Soto

Myth about Columbus

Myth:  Several hundred sailors were aboard the three caravels on the initial voyage in 1492.  The ships were relatively large for the anticipated long journey on an unpredictable sea.

Fact: Only 90 men made the first voyage of discovery.  The ships were quite tiny by modern standards - no longer than a tennis court, and less than 30 feet wide.  the Santa Maria had 40 men aboard, the Pinta, 26, and the Niña 24.  Only the Niña and the Pinta returned to Spain, as the Santa Maria was shipwrecked on Christmas Day, 1492.  39 men volunteered to stay behind at the fortress called "La Navidad" on the northern coast of present-day Haiti (they all perished at the hands of the Indians prior to the return of Columbus the following year.)
Whittier Area Genealogical Society via the Family Tree. December 2001/January 2002

Spanish hope brother's bones will lead them to Christopher Columbus
Deutsche Presse-Agentur (dpa) - September 17, 2002

        Seville, Spain (dpa) - A group of Spanish scientists Tuesday exhumed the bones of a brother to Christopher Columbus to clarify where the remains of the discoverer of the New World are buried. Columbus' remains are claimed by two locations; the Seville Cathedral and a monument dedicated to the navigator in the Dominican capital Santo Domingo. The scientists have asked the Spanish and Dominican authorities for permission to dig up the alleged bones of Columbus in Seville and Santo Domingo.
        Columbus died in Valladolid in 1506. His remains were shipped from Spain to Santo Domingo in 1537 in order to allow them to rest in the New World. When Spain ceded Santo Domingo to France in 1795, the bones were taken to Cuba and later to Seville - but the Dominicans believe the Spaniards removed the wrong bones.
        A coffin containing the bones of Columbus' younger brother Diego was opened in the southern Spanish city of Seville, where they had been interred in the garden of a ceramics factory. 
        DNA from Diego's remains will be compared with strands extracted from two alleged sets of Columbus' bones, said historian Marcial Castro. DNA tests could "revolutionize history" and help clarify Columbus' origins, Castro said. It is generally believed that Columbus was born in 1451 to the family of a wool weaver in the Italian port of Genoa. Other theories claim that he was born on Majorca island as the illegitimate son of a Spanish aristocrat.
        Columbus descendant Anunciada Colon, who has studied the transfers of her ancestor's remains, said she believed the authentic bones were in Seville. Dominican consul Francisca Espinel said her country was convinced that Columbus' remains rested in Santo Domingo. 
        DNA expert Jose Antonio Lorente said he expected test results from Diego Columbus' bones within four months. Positive identification was not guaranteed because the DNA was five centuries old, he cautioned.