Due to its proximity to Fort McKavett, Presidio de San Sabá, and the San Saba River, the Menard area has a rich, multi-generational history of Mexican American families. Menard’s Hispanic community founded Club Victoria in 1943 to honor Hispanic veterans returning from World War II battlefields in Europe. Initially holding events in public parks and private homes, eventually, an old barracks was put to use so locals, friends, and family members could gather to celebrate the successful return of soldiers, and mourn those lost. The club honored groups during a period of segregation when Mexican Americans could not go to other clubs.

In 1967, Club Victoria members finally constructed their own building. Now a large events center, the club exhibits the history and fosters the same spirit of community by hosting celebratory gatherings such as reunions and parties.

Watch the videos below to learn more about Hispanic military service in Texas and the history of Club Victoria. The videos were 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