New Braunfels, Comal County
Comal County developed as a population center during the 1890s. The arrival of the railroad and the growth of the agricultural and mining industries provided job opportunities for those leaving the economic and political instability of Mexico. Many migrants to the area settled in New Braunfels. Over time, a need for a cemetery developed. In 1920, a local organization, Asociación Mutualista de Beneficencia (Hidalgo Mexican Cemetery Association), established a burial ground for its members. Modeled after similar groups in Mexico, monthly membership fees along with extra dues paid whenever a member died covered for burial costs and provided financial support for the family of the deceased. The cemetery, originally recognized as San Juan Bautista in the late 1800s, began on three lots of land, with additional lots purchased in 1920, 1935 and 1951. The layout features an informal design, reminiscent of cemeteries in Mexican villages. Many of the grave markers are homemade with hand-carved inscriptions, rustic artwork and Catholic-inspired designs. There are dedicated sections for children and unmarked graves. Known burials took place between the late 1800s to the 1950s. Notable burials include many veterans along with community activists Francisco Estevez (1861-1959), cofounder of the cemetery, and professor Gregorio Jose Maria Cardona (1876-1920), who successfully petitioned for a Mexican school. Panteón Hidalgo Cemetery represents the history and culture of New Braunfels' Mexican working-class community, including many migrants in search of new opportunities who brought their traditions and identities to the community. The cemetery also represents the Mexican American community's impact on the cultural, economic and industrial growth of New Braunfels. Historic Texas Cemetery - 2022