Karen Gerhardt

Weslaco Karen Gerhardt

Often called "The Magic Valley" because of its tropical climate and rich soil, the Lower Rio Grande Valley is a fertile agricultural region known for its cultivation of citrus, sugar cane, cotton, and
a variety of vegetables. In the heart of the Valley is Weslaco, a typical Valley town that serves as market, business, social, religious, and educational center for a broad Hispanic/Anglo population. This compilation of mid-Valley memories focuses on the development of agriculture and community life in Weslaco from the early 1900s to the 1950s, as once again the Valley undergoes transition, this time from agriculture to international trade due to NAFTA. Featuring images of Weslaco's buildings, schools, colorful residents, lively celebrations, and
the Texsun Corporation, which employed Valley workers for almost 60 years, this photographic tour
provides insight into the area's diverse heritage.