Based on documents from the Laredo Archives, Life in Laredo shows the evolution and development of daily life in a town under the flags of Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Isolated on the northern frontier of New Spain and often forgotten by authorities far away, the people of Laredo became as grand as the river that flowed by their town and left an enduring legacy in a world of challenges and changes. Because of its documentary nature, Life in Laredo offers in sights into the nitty-gritty of the comings and goings of its early citizens not to be found elsewhere. Robert D. Wood, S.M., presents the first one hundred years of history and culture in Laredo up to the mid-nineteenth century, illuminating--with primary source evidence--the citizens' beliefs, cultural values, efforts to make a living, political seesawing, petty quarreling, and constant struggles against local Indians. He also details rebellious military and invading foreigners among the early settlers and later townspeople. Scholars and students of Texas and Mexican American history, as well as the Laredoans celebrating the 250th anniversary (in 2005) of Laredo's founding, will welcome this volume. "Although there have been a number of books on the history of Laredo, …

Document containing election results in Laredo for the year 1858.

Receipt for four pesos to the mayor of Laredo as compensation.

Receipt of payment signed by Ambrocio Sanchez for four reales.

Printed statement from Governor Fernandez to the Laredo ayuntamiento, informing the council that Miguel Barragán has been elected interim president of Mexico.

Letter from Juan Molano to the Laredo ayuntamiento, saying that Tamaulipas will be divided into two administrative units at Matamoros and Tampico.

Orders from the Conde de la Sierra Gorda to officials in six villages within Nuevo Santander. The Conde requests each officials to create a census list.

Witness statement by Y. Mandiola and J.G. Soto providing a description of an unclaimed horse taken in by C. Salinas.

Letter from Mayor Refugio Benavides to the city council in Laredo, asking to be paid for the workers he provided for accesses to the river.

Printed letter from Governor Fernandez to the Laredo ayuntamiento, announcing that Gabriel Arcos has been named secretary.

Printed circular from Marcelino Perales to the Laredo alcalde, informing him that Simeon Beyondo has been named secretary.

Printed letter from Governor Fernandez to the local ayuntamientos announcing his resignation from the governorship. According to the letter, Ramón de Cárdenas is set to replace him.

Printed circular from Governor Fernandez to the Laredo ayuntamiento, asking the civic militia to cooperate with the comandante general if he needs them.

Tally of votes for the alderman (regidor) election in the city of Laredo, with the list of voters in precinct number 1.

Tally of votes for the alderman (regidor) election in the city of Laredo, with the list of voters in precinct number 6.

Interview with Josephine (Dodo) Tobin Schreiner Parker, great-granddaughter of Captain Charles A. Schreiner, from Kerrville, Texas. Mrs. Parker delves into her famous great-grandfather's story, including his key role in the settling of Kerr County and Kerrville. She briefly mentions the presence of Tuberculosis in Kerrville, the local Cattleman's Association, being princess in the Battle of Flowers, and singing in the USO in New York.