On January 28, 2011, the keys to the original Hidalgo County Courthouse, jail and post office in Hidalgo, Texas -- the birthplace of Hidalgo County -- were turned over to the City of Hidalgo so it could begin the process of preserving our history. This celebration of keeping history alive spoke to the hard work and spirit of volunteerism that has made this little border town such a great success. Hidalgo, over the years, has sprung one of the most successful school districts in the United States, a top-notch entertainment venue bringing huge artists such as George Strait, Shakira and Janet Jackson, and hugely profitable and memorable festivals including Borderfest and the Festival of Lights, which lights up the town with more than 3 million Christmas bulbs and drew more than 800,000 visitors last year (2010). This video features an interview with the City of Hidalgo's City Manager Joe Vera, who talks about Hidalgo County all grown up, from its roots as a railroad town and the first county seat to becoming a South Texas historical hot spot and tourist destination. He talks about how the city is going to turn the area of Hidalgo Viejo into even more of a cultural gem for the people, and especially the youth, of Hidalgo County and all who love South Texas.
