Projects & Partners

The Tejano Memorial Statue, placed at the historic Ruiz-Herrera Cemetery in Von Ormy, Texas, stands as a powerful tribute to the Tejano soldiers and citizens who played a crucial role in Texas history. Spearheaded by the Alamo City Guards in collaboration with the Ruiz Herrera Cemetery Association, this project is dedicated to preserving the memory of those whose contributions have too often been overlooked.

A Tribute to Tejano Heritage

Tejanos—Texans of Spanish and Mexican descent—were instrumental in shaping Texas. They fought in its wars, built its communities, and defended its traditions. The Medina Guards, a Confederate Tejano unit formed in 1862, are among those honored by this memorial. Their legacy, along with that of many other Tejano families who called South Texas home, is one of resilience, sacrifice, and service. The Tejano Memorial Statue stands as a permanent reminder of their dedication to their land, culture, and people.

The Significance of Ruiz-Herrera Cemetery

The Ruiz-Herrera Cemetery is one of the oldest burial grounds in the region, holding the remains of generations of Tejano families. Many buried here were defenders of Texas, from the early Spanish colonial days through the Civil War and beyond. The placement of the Tejano Memorial Statue at this historic site ensures that their contributions will never be forgotten. It serves as a site for reflection, remembrance, and education for all who visit.

A Community Effort

The Alamo City Guards, alongside Von Ormy city officials, historians, and local residents, worked tirelessly to bring this project to life. Through research, funding efforts, and community outreach, this memorial was carefully designed to honor the past while inspiring future generations. The unveiling ceremony, on November 5, 2024, brought together descendants, historians, and supporters from across Texas to pay tribute to the Tejanos who shaped the Lone Star State.

Preserving History for Future Generations

The Tejano Memorial Statue is more than just a monument—it is a statement that Texas history is diverse and deeply rooted in Tejano contributions. It ensures that the sacrifices and achievements of these men and women are remembered, respected, and taught to future generations. This memorial is a lasting tribute to the rich and complex history of Texas and a testament to the unity of those who continue to honor it.

Through projects like this, the Alamo City Guards reaffirm their mission to preserve, educate, and honor—because history, especially the history of the Tejanos who helped build Texas, must never be forgotten.

Honoring History with the Old Spanish Trail Centennial Celebration

​The Alamo City Guards were honored to participate in the Old Spanish Trail Centennial Celebration, a historic event recognizing the 100-year legacy of one of America’s most significant early highways. Stretching from St. Augustine, Florida, to San Diego, California, the Old Spanish Trail played a vital role in connecting communities, fostering trade, and preserving the rich cultural heritage of the regions it traversed. As stewards of history, the Alamo City Guards proudly contributed to this commemoration by donating a handmade, custom 3×6 First National Confederate Flag to Girl Scout Troop 407 prior to the event. This flag was used by the troop in their color guard ceremony during the celebration, allowing the Girl Scouts to honor Texas’ diverse heritage. The Alamo City Guards’ donation ensured the flag’s continued use in future ceremonies and activities, reinforcing the importance of preserving and honoring the multifaceted history of Texas.

A Living Legacy

The Old Spanish Trail Centennial Celebration was more than just a reflection on the past—it was a chance to engage the community in honoring the shared history of the American South and Southwest. Through partnerships with groups like Girl Scout Troop 407, the Alamo City Guards continue to inspire young people to learn about and take pride in the history that shaped their communities. By donating the flag for future use, the Guards reaffirm their commitment to preserving history, fostering education, and supporting the next generation in honoring tradition.

The Alamo City Guards played a pivotal, though humble, role in the restoration of the missing Battle of Adams Hill historical marker. It all began when Alamo City Guards Camp member, Martin Callahan, noticed that the monument, which commemorated a significant battle in Texas history, was missing from its location. Concerned about the disappearance of such an important historical marker, Callahan took the initiative and wrote to the Express News, inquiring about the fate of the missing four-ton monument.

The Express News, equally intrigued by the sudden disappearance of a landmark of such size and importance, picked up the story and applied pressure to the Texas Historical Commission. Thanks to their efforts, the Commission was forced to acknowledge the marker’s absence and took the necessary steps to restore it to its rightful place.

While the Alamo City Guards did not directly restore the marker, the actions of Martin Callahan, coupled with the support of the community and media, helped bring attention to the situation, ultimately ensuring that the Battle of Adams Hill historical marker would be returned and preserved for future generations. This event serves as a reminder of the importance of local history and the dedication of individuals who are committed to preserving it.

​In 2023, the Tostada-Flautas Festival in San Antonio celebrated the city’s rich culinary traditions, attracting food enthusiasts from across the region. Held at 7701 FM-1346 Event C, the festival featured a variety of vendors competing for the title of best tostada and flauta, offering attendees an array of flavors to savor. ​

Among the participants were Andrew Martinez and Edwin Walker, members of the Alamo City Guards Camp #1325. Their involvement underscored the camp’s dedication to community engagement and cultural preservation.

By participating in local events like the Tostada-Flautas Festival, the Alamo City Guards continue to honor and celebrate the diverse heritage of San Antonio, fostering unity and appreciation for the city’s rich history.​

The festival not only highlighted the culinary skills of local chefs but also served as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together individuals from various backgrounds to celebrate shared traditions. The participation of organizations like the Alamo City Guards enriched the festival experience, bridging the past and present through active community involvement.

The Alamo City Guards are honored to collaborate with the Friends of Casa Navarro in preserving and celebrating Texas’s rich and diverse history. Casa Navarro, the historic residence of Tejano patriot José Antonio Navarro, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of those who shaped our state’s heritage. Navarro, a rancher, merchant, and staunch advocate for Tejano rights, was one of only two native-born Texans to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence. His limestone house, constructed between 1832 and 1855, exemplifies early-statehood domestic architecture and offers visitors a tangible connection to Texas’s past. ​

Through our collaborative efforts, we support educational programs, restoration initiatives, and public events that honor Navarro’s legacy and the broader story of Texas. Our involvement spans various activities, including participating in annual birthday celebrations with living history demonstrations, assisting in the planting of heritage gardens, and supporting events like Cornapalooza—a festival celebrating all things corn. We are committed to engaging with and enhancing all onsite programs that Casa Navarro offers.​

Notably, Alamo City Guards Commander Christian Lee serves on the board of the Friends of Casa Navarro and has contributed to the Texas Historical Commission’s Interpretive Master Plan for the site. Together, we strive to ensure that future generations recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of Tejanos and their pivotal role in the fight for Texas’s independence and identity.

​The Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 and the Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter #2060 of the United Daughters of the Confederacy (UDC) have cultivated a longstanding partnership dedicated to preserving Southern heritage and honoring Confederate ancestors. Established in 1975, the Alamo City Guards focus on commemorating Confederate soldiers, particularly highlighting San Antonio’s role during the Civil War. Similarly, the Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter, chartered on May 27, 1932, serves Bexar County and neighboring regions, continuing the UDC’s mission to honor Confederate veterans and their families. ​

Together, these organizations have collaborated on various initiatives, including restoring and maintaining Confederate gravesites in San Antonio, organizing educational programs like lectures and living history demonstrations, and co-hosting annual commemorative events such as Confederate Memorial Day ceremonies. Additionally, they actively engage in community outreach by supporting projects like “The Wall That Heals,” a traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and participating in events such as Wreaths Across America, which honors all veterans. ​

Through their combined efforts, the Alamo City Guards Camp #1325 and the Albert Sidney Johnston Chapter #2060 ensure that the history and legacy of the Confederacy, as well as the broader narrative of the Civil War era, remain integral parts of San Antonio’s cultural fabric. Their dedication to historical preservation and education fosters a deeper understanding of the region’s past, enriching the community’s appreciation for its complex heritage.