Historical Marker

Coal Mining in Las Minas

Historical marker location:
FM 1472 and Spur 255, Laredo, Texas
( FM 1472 and Spur 255 intersection and east of the Colombia-Soladarity International Bridge)
Marker installed: 2014
Marker size: 27" x 42" with post

Cannel coal was mined from the Santo Tomas coal field between 1881 and 1939 and several mining towns, collectively known as Las Minas, developed during this time. The towns were located in the vicinity of the points of access to the mines. The towns consisted of Minera (Carbon), Darwin (Cannel), Dolores (San Jose) and Santo Tomas.

Las Minas’ quality coal and thriving economy attracted engineers, investors, laborers, miners, railroad developers and many others. Las Minas and the Santo Tomas coal field’s production directly impacted Laredo’s dynamic growth and infrastructural developments from the 1880s to the 1930s. Between 1880 and 1890, Laredo’s population jumped from 3,521 to 11,319. The first railroad into Laredo was built in 1881, but four railroads reached the city by 1891. In 1896, coal from Laredo sold for $3.25 per ton by the railcar load after arriving in Mexico and North Texas.

Many of the inhabitants of Las Minas were Mexican or Mexican American. However, citizens in Las minas migrated from the eastern and midwestern United States as well. The local population overcame difficult living conditions such as the lack of electricity and running water, underfunded schools, disease and mine fires. Despite these challenges, the inhabitants of Las Minas contributed many cultural and civic legacies to the region such as Los Matachines de la Santa Cruz, Pastorela troupes, baseball teams, political participation and labor organization that shaped the local community and neighboring town of Laredo

As one of the most visible programs of the Texas Historical Commission (THC), historical markers commemorate diverse topics in Texas history, including: the history and architecture of houses, commercial and public buildings, religious congregations, and military sites; events that changed the course of local and state history; and individuals who have made lasting contributions to the state, community organizations, and businesses.

cities and towns Mexican topics
The first oil well in the United States was drilled in Texas in 1859. The discovery of oil transformed the economy of the state and helped to make Texas one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
Texas random facts
Webb County, located in southern Texas along the Mexico border, has a rich and vibrant history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by various Indigenous groups, including the Coahuiltecan and Cabeza de Vaca tribes. In 1705, the Spanish government established what is now known as the city of Laredo, making it one of the oldest European settlements in present-day Texas.

During the 19th century, Webb County played a crucial role in the struggle for Mexican independence and the subsequent development of the Texas Republic. In 1836, during the Texas Revolution, Mexican troops led by General José de Urrea were defeated by the Texian forces at the Battle of San Patricio, which took place near present-day San Patricio, a community within Webb County.

Following the Texas Revolution, Laredo became an important trading center, connecting the United States and Mexico. The city's location along the Rio Grande made it a key point for trade and transportation, leading to its rapid growth. In 1848, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ended the Mexican-American War, and Laredo became part of the United States.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries brought significant changes to Webb County. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s further stimulated economic growth, as it provided an efficient means of importing goods and exporting local agricultural products. This led to the expansion of ranching and agriculture industries in the region. Additionally, the discovery of oil and gas reserves in the early 20th century brought further prosperity and development to the county.

Today, Webb County continues to thrive as a bustling border city and a hub of trade between the United States and Mexico. With a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant economy, the county serves as an important intersection of history, commerce, and diversity in Texas.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Webb County, Texas.

  • 1848 - Webb County is established as a county in the state of Texas.
  • 1849 - The first permanent settlers arrive in what is now known as Laredo, the county seat of Webb County.
  • 1852 - The county's first courthouse is built in Laredo.
  • 1860 - The population of Webb County reaches over 4,000 residents.
  • 1881 - The Texas-Mexican Railway reaches Laredo, leading to increased trade and development in the county.
  • 1906 - A new courthouse is built in Laredo to replace the previous one.
  • 1944 - The Laredo Air Force Base is established, contributing to the county's economy and providing employment opportunities.
  • 1977 - The Rio Grande Industrial Park is opened, promoting industrial development in Webb County.
  • 2010 - Webb County's population exceeds 250,000 residents.