The Rio Grande Valley, home to more than 90% Hispanics and Latinos, was not immune to segregation in the 20th century.

During the early 20th century in San Benito, a few Black families lived in El Jardin neighborhood and there was only one school for Black children. However, the school didn’t have a designated building. Between the 1900s and late 1940s, students and teachers would meet in various locations, including an icehouse within the neighborhood.

Eventually, in 1952, a school was built and operated by San Benito ISD. It was named after Joe Callandret, a San Benito transplant from Louisiana, who was a subdivision developer and businessman in town. Callandret owned property adjacent to El Jardin and after his death, his wife, Fannie, donated land to San Benito ISD to open a school for Black children. Like most segregated schools in those days, it was, reportedly, left in disrepair. It was noted by a local newspaper that the school had inadequate outhouses, litter and unkempt landscaping. But, inside, teacher Myrtle Fay Jackson taught the students to be well-mannered in both good citizenship and schoolwork. The school remained segregated until 1960. After the school desegrated, it became a place for the Special Education department and professional development training.

Today, it is now the Callandret Black History Museum preserving the stories and history of Black families in San Benito. The museum, located at 305 Doherty St. San Benito, Texas, features family photos, memorabilia from the city and a replica of the classroom. Open Thursday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.