One of Houston’s historical political districts, Second Ward—also known as Segundo Barrio or simply Segundo—grew after World War II as many Mexican Americans moved into the area. Still largely populated by Mexican Americans and residents of Hispanic heritage, the neighborhood retains much of its Latin influence. Even modern improvements to the surrounding area continue to reflect Segundo’s Hispanic culture.

Talento Bilingüe de Houston is a Latino cultural arts and community center just east of downtown and north of Guadalupe Plaza Park that regularly hosts multicultural performances, educational programming and workshops, and summer arts camps. A variety of stores and restaurants that further represent the community’s Latino heritage are within walking distance of the center.

The eastern portion of Segundo Barrio is known as the Magnolia Park neighborhood. Constructed in 1890 and lined with nearly 4,000 magnolia trees, it is one of the oldest Hispanic neighborhoods in Houston. It grew as many Mexicans and Mexican Americans fleeing the turmoil of the Mexican Revolution in Mexico and South Texas established roots here, often working at the nearby Houston Ship Channel or laying railroad tracks. By the mid-1920s, Magnolia Park evolved into the city's largest Mexican American community, earning the nickname "Little Mexico.”

The working class neighborhood expanded in the 1960s and became a hotbed of activism in the 1970s, particularly with the establishment of Papel Chicano, a newspaper covering the Chicano movement. To experience the area's thriving Mexican heritage, enjoy an authentic meal, discover the work of Latin musicians at a local record shop, and visit the historic buildings and a variety of Spanish-language businesses.

Watch the video below to learn more about Civil Rights and Hispanics in Texas. This video was produced for inclusion in the Hispanic Texans mobile tour, more information about which may be found on our Hispanic heritage page at the following link: http://texastimetravel.com/travel-themes/main-hispanic-heritage