Historical Marker

Penitas

Historical marker location:
FM 1427, Veterans Memorial Park, Penitas, Texas
( FM 1427, 3/4 mi south of Business 83 (NE corner of Veterans Memorial Park, in front of City Hall))
Marker installed: 2007
Marker size: 27" x 42"

The community of Peñitas, which derives its name, meaning "Little Pebbles," from area gravel deposits, traces its origins to the colonization efforts of Spaniard José de Escandón. In 1749, he settled families on the Villa of Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe de Reynosa land grant in Mexico. Peñitas developed on a section of the ejidos (town commons) north of Reynosa as grazing land for livestock. Escandón selected a site west of Reynosa for a mission. Soon, another small mission, San Joaquín del Monte, formed, ministering to indigenous people and to settlers living on the north bank. The mission also protected colonists from attacks. This area quickly became the focus of commercial trade for its mother city of Reynosa as residents gathered here to sell and purchase goods. The salt trade became specially prosperous for settlers; salt was essential for preserving food and curing hides. By the 1760s, a number of settlers worked on ranches on the north bank of the Rio Grande. By 1767, the Spanish government granted porciones (allotments of land) to certain colonists, while other rented land on the ejidos for ranching or farming. Soon, ranching communities developed on the ejidos, including the Peñitas, Tabasco and Ojo de Agua ranches, which were forerunners of the towns of Peñitas, La Joya and Abra, respetively. In the mid-1800s, Peñitas became a refueling stop for steamboat traffic and by the early 20th century had residences, stores, a cemetery, a post office, a school and a stop on the St. Louis, Brownsville & Mexico Railroad. Today, Peñitas, which incorporated in 1992, continues to thrive as a community rich in cultural heritage. (2007)

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.

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Hidalgo County, located in Southern Texas, has a rich history that spans back thousands of years. The region was initially inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Coahuiltecan, Karankawa, and Caddo peoples. These tribes thrived in the area, relying on agriculture, hunting, fishing, and trade.

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.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in 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.