Capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande | |
 Part of the Republic of the Rio Grande Capitol Building is today a museum | |
  Capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande  Capital of the Republic of the Rio Grande | |
| Location | 1001 Zaragoza St., Laredo, Texas |
|---|---|
| Coordinates | 27°30′06″N 99°30′22″W / 27.5018°N 99.5062°W |
| Part of | San Agustin de Laredo Historic District (ID73001983[1]) |
| Added to NRHP | September 19, 1973 |
Republic of the Rio Grande Museum is a historic house museum located in the downtown San Agustin de Laredo Historic District in Laredo, Texas, United States, next to the historic La Posada Hotel and San Agustín Cathedral.[2] The Mexican vernacular structure was built in 1830 as a house with an addition in 1860. Among the people who have lived there was prominent rancher Bartolomé García, who was also one of Laredo's mayors, and who is a descendant of the town founder, Tomas Sanchez.
Once the Republic of the Rio Grande capitol building, it now showcases memorabilia from the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande and displays pictures, books, and furniture from the 19th century Laredo area. There are three restored rooms re-creating an authentic 1830 home in Laredo; an office and sitting area, a bedroom, and a kitchen. Because of this Republic, Laredo had flown seven flags instead of the traditional Six flags over Texas.
The museum is operated by the Webb County Heritage Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization chartered in 1980 to promote historic preservation, education, and tourism. The museum offers guided tours for school age children and adults year-round.
