Towards the end of Zaragoza Street you will see a two-story brick building set back from the public street — a private residence built above the banks of the Rio Grande for a local family in an Italianate-style popular with wealthy merchants after the turn of the 20th century. This house is indicative of the striking contrast between the Spanish courtyard style residences and the later Victorian-era homes built by the growing Anglo population. Constructed by a local Laredo merchant, it served as home to two different prominent families. By the late 20^th century, however, the historic structure was derelict, gutted by fires and suffering from neglect. Headed for demolition, it was acquired by the Webb County Heritage Foundation and Webb County. The restoration project preserves much of the original exterior architectural character while transforming the interior into a modern showcase for exhibits exploring the region’s history and culture.

Administered by the Webb County Heritage Foundation, today the museum is an evolving exploration of Laredo’s cultural history and character, with a changing series of exhibits highlighting life on both sides of the border.