E-Wire from Laredo Chamber of Commerce for 0/04/09

"Why celebrate George Washington's Birthday on the border?" The answer must be attributed to the original planners of the celebration, the patriotic Improved Order of the Red Men, local chapter Yaqui Tribe #59, whose members included prominent Laredoans of both Mexican and American ancestry. The committee was looking for a traditionally "American" holiday to celebrate that might offer the best of all cultures influencing the heritage of Laredo's citizens.

On the morning of February 22, 1898, Indians and white men engaged in a "battle" for control of Laredo, Texas. The "battle," centered at City Hall was fiercely fought, but to no avail. In the end, the defenders fell and the mayor presented the key to the city to the Great Chief Sachem as a sign of unconditional surrender. The Great Chief in turn presented the key to the lovely Princess Pocahontas, who represented a lost tradition, "a vanishing race." The ensuing celebration among neighbors lasted for two days, culminating with the re-enactment of the "Boston Tea Party." Thus, was born the annual celebration of George Washington's Birthday Celebration in Laredo, Texas. They found that during the fight for freedom, in the American colonies, the Sons of Liberty would disguise themselves as Indians to meet and discuss strategy using the forest as cover. George Washington served as "Sachem" and so within the history of their own society, they found the "American" holiday they sought. It was further discovered that the name "Washington" was not only revered in the United States he helped create, but in areas to the south as well. Respected as the forerunner of such Latin American liberators as Mexico's Father Hidalgo and Simon Bolivar, Washington's esteem is not limited to the United States.

The first celebration was a phenomenal success. Its success and popularity grew rapidly and in 1923, the Washington's Birthday Celebration Association of Laredo, Inc. (WBCA™), received its state charter. In 1924, the Celebration featured its first Colonial Pageant, which featured thirteen young girls from Laredo, representing the thirteen original colonies. Charged with the overseeing of the annual celebration, the WBCA™ has continued it's role as developer and leader ever since. The International Bridge Ceremony, one of our major events, is the "welcoming ceremony" between officials and dignitaries from Mexico and the United States. By exchanging "abrazos" the American and Mexican "Abrazo Children" symbolize the amity and understanding between the two neighboring nations. Over the years, additional attractions have been added. Together with its Affiliate Organizations, the WBCA™ now boasts a celebration calendar, which includes over 25 events and spans a period of a month. It attracts over 400,000 attendees annually.

For the full schedule of events, go to the WBCA™ website: www.WBCALaredo.org.