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Hidalgo County backs 64.5-mile 'Walking Southern Roads to Freedom' to highlight African American history
Summary
The Hidalgo County Commissioners Court approved a resolution supporting a symbolic 64.5-mile walk that traces sites tied to the region’s African American history and the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom designation, and recognized families and local stewards involved in preserving related sites.
The Hidalgo County Commissioners Court unanimously approved a resolution supporting the "Walking Southern Roads to Freedom," a symbolic 64.5-mile walk through sites of historic significance to African American history in the Rio Grande Valley.
Dr. Jennifer Mendoza Culbertson introduced the item on behalf of Commissioner Elie Torres and described the walk as an effort to raise awareness of the resilience of freedom seekers of African ancestry who passed through South Texas on routes to Mexico. The resolution cites state-recognized historic sites in Hidalgo County, including Jackson Ranch Church and Martin Jackson Cemetery, and names other locations to be highlighted during the walk.
Rosanna Batchagarza of UTRGV and partners from local Juneteenth councils and historical organizations described family caretakers and descendants who have maintained cemeteries and sites. Dr. Raymond Howard, representing the Valley African American Culture and Heritage Council, told the court, “We are more than just thrilled and excited about this,” and said the event creates a pathway to remember those who sought freedom and to celebrate local history.
The court approved the resolution on a voice vote and the judge said the court was "very proud to support this effort." The resolution encourages municipalities within the county to recognize sites of historical significance and to support the walking event during Women’s History Month.
What the court did: The Commissioners Court adopted a resolution supporting the walking event, acknowledged descendants and caretakers of historic sites, and committed to efforts to help ensure the walk’s success.
Context: Presenters said the initiative grew from local research and regional partnerships and follows the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom recognition for Jackson Ranch Church and Martin Jackson Cemetery.
