Through generous support from the Moody Foundation and the Texas Historical Commission, as well as the utilization of institutional resources, Laredo College’s Domingo Arechiga Hall enjoyed welcoming visitors into its familiar halls once again.
This historic landmark has withstood the test of time and will be integral to shaping the future of new and current Palominos as the location for the Laredo College Advising Center, Disability Services and Retention Services.
A Monday morning rededication and ribbon-cutting ceremony was a fantastic celebration of the completed renovation and restoration period for the renowned building. It also served as a moment to remember and reflect on the legacy of Dr. Domingo Arechiga, whose commitment to education and community service left a lasting impact on LC and the South Texas region.
“Life has a remarkable way of coming full circle, and standing here today as president of Laredo College, honoring the legacy of a man I admired both personally and professionally, is one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Laredo College President Dr. Minita Ramírez said. “Today, as we rededicate this beautifully restored building, we are doing more than preserving bricks and mortar; we are preserving a story. A story of military service, a story of educational leadership, a story of a college that has transformed lives for nearly eight decades. And a story of a community that understands that preserving our history is essential to building our future.”
Laredo College extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Moody Foundation, the Texas Historical Commission, the LC Grants Department and the LC Institutional Advancement Division for their tireless efforts that made the celebration possible. Their contributions and commitment directly impacted the institution’s efforts toward historical preservation and resulted in this magnificent architectural marvel to once again serve the students of its community.
The grant applications were developed and submitted by LC Director of Grants Gabriel Lozano in March 2023 in the amounts of $250,000 from the Moody Foundation and $30,000 from the Texas Historical Commission. These competitive grant awards were applied to the more than $3 million in total renovation costs.
“On behalf of the Laredo College Board of Trustees, I would like to express our sincere appreciation to The Moody Foundation, The Texas Historical Commission, Leyendecker Construction, Cavazos Architects and everyone involved in preserving this historic landmark,” Laredo College Board Parliamentarian Cindy Liendo said. “This restored building stands as a symbol of hope, opportunity and possibility. At Laredo College, we believe that education transforms lives, strengthens families and builds stronger communities. This is where futures begin. This is where you belong.”
The renovation addressed structural integrity, modernized interior and exterior finishes, upgraded mechanical and electrical systems and incorporated accessibility improvements to meet current standards.
The renovation project helped restore Arechiga Hall’s late Victorian architecture, highlighting the historical significance of the institution and contributing toward the president’s goal of preserving every historical building on campus. With its stunning exterior and interior, as well as its impressive motif, it stands as a testament to the rich history of this esteemed institution.
Originally constructed in 1880 as the troops’ barracks, Arechiga Hall is now a registered Texas Landmark and a National Historical Landmark.
Named after Laredo Junior College’s third president, Dr. Domingo Arechiga, the building’s grandeur and significance are now synonymous with the campus’ history, dating back to when it was Camp Crawford in 1849. It was later renamed Ft. McIntosh after war hero Lt. Col. James McIntosh and has been registered with the National Register of Historic Places since 1975.
As for the future of the Ft. McIntosh Historical District, the LC Grants Department plans to submit new grant applications to successfully continue the college’s historical renovation efforts.
Laredo College is looking forward to seeing Arechiga Hall welcome students, staff and faculty through its doors and provide improved academic services, student engagement and administrative operations for generations to come.