Far From Forgotten: Pharr, MOSTHistory link up in effort to preserve heritage

While time is the fastest moving component in our lives, history continues to grow by the second.

History and heritage are costly to forget, that’s why the City of Pharr and the Museum of South Texas History — located in Edinburg across the new courthouse — are partnering up in a new initiative, both announced on Tuesday.

The effort is toward preserving and also celebrating the City of Pharr’s cultural and historical legacy.

The partnership will focus on a myriad of things.

“The Partnership Agreement, approved by the Pharr City Commission through a resolution, will focus on educational programming, guided tours, community outreach, and historical data initiatives that highlight Pharr’s unique story within the broader history of the Rio Grande Valley,” the city said in a release.

Through this effort, residents and students of Pharr will have the chance to enter the museum at a discounted rate — granted, they must bring a form of ID with them or a utility bill will suffice. Attendees then will undergo programs, workshops, exhibits, lectures and more that helps those learn more about the historical significance of the city and its ties to the Rio Grande Valley.

Pharr Mayor Ambrosio Hernandez, M.D. said that the city’s history is embedded in the region that it should be shared with those who are interested.

“Pharr’s story is one of resilience, growth, and unity,” the mayor said. “Our city’s deep roots are woven into the history of the Rio Grande Valley, and this partnership with the Museum of South Texas History allows us to proudly share and preserve that heritage for future generations.”

Not only will the historical tale of Pharr be told those with a sense of curiousity, but Pharr and MOSTHistory will also be collaborating on research and data collection to make note of the city’s impact and significance to the Valley.

This partnership agreement, which was approved by the Pharr City Commission via a resolution, will be in effect through Sept. 30, 2026.

Pharr City Manager, Jonathan B. Flores, was on the same note as the mayor.

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to learning, preservation, and innovation,” Flores said. “Together with MOSTHistory, we’re creating opportunities that honor our past, inspire civic pride, and open pathways for education, volunteerism, and workforce growth in the arts and humanities.”

In a sense, to be able to grow, one must look back and understand the past.

“ Pharr is at the epicenter of South Texas history,” Francisco Guajardo, Ph.D., Chief Executive Officer of MOSTHistory, said. “ Through the partnership between the City of Pharr and MOSTHistory, we enhance our understanding of the past, present, and future.”