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The small
farming community of Los Sauces dates back to 1863 when a trading post and ferry
were established on the Rio Grande. The first church, a flat-roofed adobe
chapel, was built in 1880, and dedicated to San Antonio. In 1923, the size of
the church was increased, but a few years later a disastrous fire destroyed all
but part of the front wall. Parishioners then began to build a new church, also
dedicated to San Antonio. Families donated stained glass windows to be placed in
the new structure.
At that time,
Los Sauces was a thriving center for many small ranches. The town boasted
stores, a dance hall, and a school. Over the years the businesses and the school
closed, but the church has remained as an anchor for the community. 1n 1998, La
Capilla de San Antonio was placed on the State Historic Register.
The church is
used for mass monthly, and is available for funerals and other special times of
prayer. Every June, the community of Los Sauces gathers to celebrate the feast
of San Antonio with mass, a festive outdoor dinner and socializing. Though the
celebration is smaller than in the past, when it would have lasted two or three
days, and included dances, horse races, fireworks and other events, the spirit
and the heart with which the people celebrate remains vibrant and strong.
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