Matanza of 1915

In the late 19th and early 20th century, racial tensions near the United States - Mexico border and the lower Rio Grande Valley erupted into violence. The change from ranching to commercial agriculture and a shift in racial hierarchies led to increased discrimination against Mexican Americans and Mexicans in the region. In addition, economic problems and the Mexican Revolution increased the immigrant population to Texas. This influx along with the rise in Anglo immigration to South Texas increased racial tensions. Law enforcement and vigilante groups used violence and intimidation to quell, and at times respond to, a growing movement referred to as Revolucion De Texas. Some Mexicans and Mexican Americans envisioned this movement as a fight against discrimination, while some in law enforcement perceived it as a threat to new Anglo migrations in the area. The section of highway between San Benito and Brownsville was the site of countless killings of prisoners without due process. One of the first victims was Rudolfo Muniz, who was lynched on this road on July 29, 1915, while in the custody of local law enforcement. It is estimated that hundreds, possibly thousands, of Mexican Americans and Mexicans were killed. Out of fear, many families fled Brownsville to Matamoros. A contemporary newspaper editorial referred to this period as the Matanza (Massacre) of 1915. In 1919, the Texas Legislature conducted a formal investigation into state and local law enforcement practices. The Texas Rangers were reorganized as a result. Memories of the Matanza continue through scattered records and oral tradition, reflecting difficulties in recounting this violent yet pivotal time in Texas History. (2014)

Matanza of 1915 is a historical marker in San Benito, Cameron County, dedicated in 2014. It is one of 116 historical markers documented in Cameron County in the Texas Historical Commission Atlas, among 194 historic sites cataloged across the county.

The site sits at 26.1029, -97.5981 near San Benito. The nearest cataloged historic site is Purvis, Albanus Clemens (historical marker), about 2.9 miles away. Others within a short drive include First Presbyterian Church of San Benito, San Benito, and San Benito Bank and Trust Company.

This record corresponds to Texas Historical Commission Atlas #5507018128. Use the map below for its exact position and turn-by-turn directions.