Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery
Historical marker location:The town of Mercedes was platted by the Capisallo Town and Improvement Company in 1907. The Oblate Provincial Council in Austin requested that the company provide a site for a Catholic
church, and Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church was dedicated in February 1909. In December of that year, Carmen Nava Garza was the first to be interred on this site in a marked grave. The Capisallo
Company gave four acres including this site to the Brownsville Diocese in 1910, and the cemetery was named for the parish church. Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery served those who were not buried on private ranches outside Mercedes. With more than 2,341 marked and 56 unmarked sites, the cemetery continues to serve
Mercedes. (2000)
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.
Texas was once an independent country: After winning its independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas became its own country, known as the Republic of Texas. It existed as an independent nation for nine years before being annexed by the United States in 1845.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, bringing new settlers and establishing missions. During this time, the land belonged to Spain and was considered a part of New Spain. The Spanish influence can still be seen today in the names of many cities and landmarks in Hidalgo County.
In the 19th century, Mexico gained independence from Spain and Hidalgo County became part of the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. However, with the Texas Revolution in 1836, the region became a part of the Republic of Texas and was eventually incorporated into the United States with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hidalgo County experienced significant growth due to the expansion of the railroad industry and the development of irrigation techniques. This led to the establishment of prosperous agricultural communities, with cotton being the main cash crop. Over time, the population became increasingly diverse, with a mix of Mexican, Anglo-American, and other immigrant communities.
Today, Hidalgo County is a thriving region known for its vibrant culture, strong agricultural industry, and close proximity to the US-Mexico border. It is home to cities such as McAllen and Edinburg, as well as popular tourist attractions like the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge and the International Museum of Art and Science. The county continues to evolve, with a growing population and a dynamic economy driven by healthcare, education, manufacturing, and international trade.
Hidalgo County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Hidalgo County, Texas.
- 1749 - The area that is now Hidalgo County is explored by Spanish explorers.
- 1767 - The Spanish government establishes a settlement called Reynosa in the area.
- 1821 - Mexico gains independence from Spain, and Hidalgo County becomes a part of Mexico.
- 1836 - Texas declares independence from Mexico, and Hidalgo County becomes a part of the Republic of Texas.
- 1848 - The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, ending the Mexican-American War, and Hidalgo County becomes a part of the United States.
- 1852 - Hidalgo County is officially established as a county in the state of Texas.
- 1909 - The city of McAllen is founded.
- 1944 - The Hidalgo County Courthouse, a historic landmark, is completed.
- 1954 - The Hidalgo County Water Improvement District No. 4 is created to provide irrigation and drainage services.
- 1970 - The population of Hidalgo County reaches over 200,000.
- 2001 - The new Hidalgo County Administration Building opens.