A Place in TimeThe Mexican Village is a distinct chapter in time that enriches the history of Dodge City. The first generation of Mexican immigrants broke ground to build and nurture a community; their descendants continue in that effort today. As Families moved out of the Village in 1955, they relocated just north of the tracks in homes close to their former neighbors and church. This video is dedicated to the men and women who lived in the Mexican Village from 1906 to 1956. A special thanks to Tim Wenzl who wrote the book "Dodge City's Mexican Village: A place in Time. You can visit the Mexican Village exhibit at Boot Hill Museum.
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The Story of the Mexican Village
Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, in search of Seven Cities of Gold, traversed the great-plains and claimed this land for Spain. A Fransican friar, Juan Padilla was a part of his entourage. When the group crossed the Arkansas River, which they named the Saints. Peter and Paul River, Father Padilla celebrated Mass 0n the highest of hills. The Coronado Cross, six miles east of Dodge City, marks the approximate site of this service. Later this land became part of Mexico’s land holdings. No Mexican settlements were established in what is now Kansas until this land became part of the United States. The Mexican people are the largest single group of immigrants to settle in Kansas. They have been a part of Dodge City's heritage from the outset.
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One out of six cowboys who drove the longhorn herds in from Texas were Mexican. Earlier Mexican freighters traversed the Santa Fe Trail and the military road between Dodge City and Camp Supply carrying shipments of goods.
Proof of an early Mexican influence is evident from an event, which occurred in Dodge City in1884. Former Mayor Alonzo B. Webster wanted to bring attention to the town whose rip-roaring days were fading. He proposed that a bullfight be held as part of the city’s Fourth of July celebration. When word reached Washington, the United States attorney expressed outrage and wired word that bullfights were prohibited in the United States. |
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Webster’s reported reply? “Hell, Dodge City ain’t in the United States." Four bullfighters dressed in red jackets, blue tunics, white stockings and small dainty slippers were brought in from Mexico to give color and authenticity to the sport. The bullfight was a great success and Dodge City took its place in history as having the only bullfight held on United States soil.
Water Ways: Torrez Sisters
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Water Ways: Bob Flores Part One
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The People of the Mexican Village
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A Slice of Time: Dani Sandoval
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