ALAMOSA — Three new interpretive signs have been installed at Historic Zapata Park in Alamosa that detail the Maestas Case of 1912-1914 that ended Mexican-American school segregation in the region.
In that case, District Judge Charles Holbrook ruled in favor, stating, "In the opinion of the court...the only way to destroy this feeling of discontent and bitterness which has recently grown up, is to allow all children so prepared to attend the school nearest them."
The old school that was at the center of the case is long gone, replaced with lovely recreational facilities and now, new interpretive signs commemorating the history of a landmark case.
The signs are a collaborative effort of the City of Alamosa, the Sangre de Cristo National Heritage Area, and the Maestas Commemoration Committee. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Aug. 4.
The name of the park was slightly changed by the city from Zapata Park to Historic Zapata Park in May.
Also in May, the City of Alamosa and the Alamosa Bicycle Coalition celebrated the installation of a bike stand in the park where cyclists can work on their bikes.
