Laredo's First International Bridge
Historical marker location:The area surrounding the international bridge was used as a river crossing for centuries by Indian tribes because of its shallowness, and later by Spanish conquistadores for its shorter distance between Bahia del Espiritu Santo and Nuevo Leon. Around 1746, Spanish soldiers named the crossing El Paso de Jacinto after their leader Jacinto de León. In 1755 Tomás Sánchez established a ranch two leagues from El Paso de Jacinto. The area flourished and by 1757, the town of Laredo was established with 185 residents.
The origins of the crossing are also seen in its references as El Paso de los Indios, El Paso del Indio, and “Old Indian Crossing.” Traditionally river crossings were by chalán (canoe), but in 1767 the viceroy granted Laredo ferry privileges. A ferry was placed on common property, so that Laredo residents did not pay crossing charges, while visitors were charged two reales per person and one real per freight package. In later years conflict arose over who had the right to transport people and goods. In 1880, a series of lawsuits and land disputes were resolved when the Texas supreme court decided in favor of city ownership.
The era of foot crossings, chalanes and ferries slowly came to an end with the erection of an international bridge. On May 12, 1883, the city passed an ordinance granting C.M. MacDonnell the right to construct a bridge across the Rio Grande, and in 1884 the U.S. House of Representatives approved creation of the International Bridge and Tramway Company. The bridge opened on April 6, 1889 and in 1946 the city purchased the American end. By 2011 the city owned and operated the American side of four bridges
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.
The discovery of oil in 1901 near Beaumont, Texas, sparked an oil boom that transformed the state's economy and led to the rise of the modern petroleum industry.
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.
Webb County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in 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.