Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 Supports the Friends of Casa Navarro 20th Anniversary Celebration

On February 28, 2025, Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 gathered at Casa Navarro to commemorate the life and legacy of the Texas patriot, statesman, and signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence. As stewards of Southern and Texas history, our camp members were honored to take part in this special occasion alongside fellow preservationists and Navarro descendants.

During the event, Confederate Coffee Company, an enterprise dedicated to supporting historical preservation, set up a booth to contribute to the cause. Through the sale of their heritage-inspired coffee blends, they successfully raised over $100 for the Friends of Casa Navarro, furthering the mission of preserving Navarro’s historic homestead.

Our presence at this event reaffirms our belief that Texas history must be preserved and shared. Navarro’s legacy, much like the legacy of the Confederate soldiers we honor, represents the fight for self-determination, state sovereignty, and cultural heritage—values we remain committed to defending.

To further demonstrate their commitment to preserving Texas history, Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 installed a commemorative brick at Casa Navarro. This permanent addition serves as a symbol of the camp’s dedication to Navarro’s legacy and historical preservation.

The brick, engraved with the Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 name, now sits among those honoring other supporters of Texas heritage. This marks a significant moment in our camp’s history, ensuring that our presence and commitment to Texas history will be remembered for generations to come.

This installation reflects the ongoing partnership between our camp and the Friends of Casa Navarro, reinforcing our shared mission to protect, educate, and commemorate the legacy of Navarro and his impact on Texas.

The following day, Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 joined the Friends of Casa Navarro at their 20th Anniversary Luncheon, where our camp was recognized as Jan Patrons of the celebration. This milestone event was led by Rey Salinas, President of the Friends of Casa Navarro, and featured distinguished guests and powerful messages about the importance of historical preservation.

Our very own Commander Christian Lee, who serves as Secretary of the Board for Friends of Casa Navarro, played a key role in supporting and organizing the event. His dedication to both organizations underscores the strong relationship between the Alamo City Guards and Friends of Casa Navarro, reinforcing our shared mission to protect and promote Texas history.

The program featured:

• A keynote address from Kate Rogers, Executive Director of The Alamo, emphasizing the need for continued preservation efforts.
• A special proclamation presented by Marci Ince, recognizing the Friends of Casa Navarro’s two decades of historical contributions.
• A performance by Michael Conti, a Navarro descendant, who brought Las Vegas-style entertainment to the celebration with his Visions of Elvis tribute.

The event also honored several organizations and individuals whose unwavering support has kept the Navarro legacy alive:

• Sylvia and John Tillotson for their long-standing contributions.
• Siemering Lodge 32, another passionate advocate for historical preservation.
• Kahlig Auto Group and Dr. R. Ricardo Ramirez, D.D.S., F.A.G.D., for their generosity.
• Tejanos Alma Group, whose cultural engagement added a meaningful touch to the celebration.

A moment of remembrance was also held for those who have passed but left a lasting impact, including Maria De Jesus (Susie) Chapa, Helen Garza, Elvira (Vera) Kahlig, Emma Navarro DelaRosa, and Joseph Tillotson.

For the Alamo City Guards Camp #1325, supporting the Friends of Casa Navarro is part of our broader commitment to historical education, preservation, and honoring the diverse figures who shaped Texas’ past.

José Antonio Navarro was a patriot, a statesman, and a defender of Texas independence—a cause that resonates deeply with our own values. His contributions, along with those of the Tejanos and Southerners who fought to shape Texas, deserve to be recognized and preserved for future generations.

With Commander Christian Lee’s active role in both organizations, our camp is well-positioned to continue supporting preservation efforts and strengthening our community’s understanding of Texas history.

Here’s to many more years of protecting and celebrating the rich legacy of Texas.