Small Town of Melvin to Receive Texas Historical Marker

MELVIN, TX — A Texas Historical Marker has been awarded to the small community of Melvin honoring Rafael Riojas de la Garza and his contributions to local history.

Melvin, located about 55 miles southeast of San Angelo between Eden and Brady, had a population of only 123 residents during the 2020 census.

A dedication ceremony for the marker will be held at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, at the Melvin Bible Church Food Pantry, 303 White St. The public is invited to attend.

Dina Lopez, Ph.D., and senior adviser to the Melvin Junta Patriotica, is scheduled to speak at the ceremony. The McCulloch County Historical Commission is hosting the event.

According to Colonia Jiménez historian Nestor Pérez, Riojas was a leader and intellectual force in the Latin American Parent-Teacher Association and played a significant role in efforts against segregation.

The marker is expected to be the only Texas Historical Marker honoring an individual in McCulloch County.

“The Official Texas Historical Marker program helps bring attention to community treasures and the importance of their preservation,” Texas Historical Commission Executive Director Mark Wolfe said. “Awareness and education are among the best ways to guarantee the preservation of our state’s history.”

The Texas Historical Commission is the state agency responsible for historic preservation and administers programs focused on preserving the archaeological, historical and cultural resources of Texas.