In downtown Laredo, Texas, a Mexican vernacular house built in 1830 and enlarged in 1860 preserves both the story of the short-lived Republic of the Rio Grande and everyday life in 19th-century Laredo. Located in the San Agustin de Laredo Historic District beside La Posada and San Agustín Cathedral, the house once served as the republic’s capitol, a legacy tied to Laredo’s claim of having flown seven flags. It was also home to Bartolomé García, a rancher, mayor of Laredo, and descendant of founder Tomás Sánchez. Today it presents memorabilia, photographs, books, period furniture, and restored rooms representing an 1830 home.