Historical Marker

Penitas

Historical marker location:
Mission vicinity, Texas
( from Mission, take FM 2062 south about 5.5 miles)
Marker installed: 1970
Marker size: 27" x 42"

Possibly one of oldest towns in the United States. Established, according to tradition, in mid-1520s.

Founders were a priest and five other Spaniards of the unsuccessful Panfilo de Narvaez Expedition into Mexico in 1520. Narvaez was sent to arrest or kill Hernando Cortez, conqueror of Mexico, who was accused of disloyalty to the king. Cortez, however, defeated Narvaez in battle, imprisoned him, and took most of Narvaez's army for his own. After Narvaez was released from prison (1521), he and the remnant of his men set out for Florida. But Father Zamora and five officers gave up further plans to travel with Narvaez, and settled at Penitas.

The refugees were befriended by Indians living in huts and dugout-type homes in the vicinity. The Spaniards erected stone houses with whitewashed walls. Father Zamora brought the Catholic faith to the Indians, also teaching them weaving and better farming. The Indians taught cookery to their guests.

Cabeza de Vaca, aide in a later Narvaez expedition, is famous for having written of his shipwreck and wanderings in Texas from 1528 to 1535. The founders of Penitas are recalled best by their descendants, some of whom still live in this area.

(1970)

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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Texas was once a part of Mexico but gained independence in 1836 after a famous battle at the Alamo.
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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.