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Charles D. Thompson, Jr.

Teacher. Author. Filmmaker. Photographer.

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Aug 06 2015

Most Diverse Battle Site Ever on U.S. Soil

Reenacting the Battle of Palmito Hill Ranch near Boca Chica, TX
Reenacting the Battle of Palmito Hill Ranch near Boca Chica, TX

Prof. Antonio Zavaleta sent this photograph of himself with his grandson. They dressed as Union soldiers reenacting the Battle of Palmito Hill Ranch near Boca Chica in Texas. This was the 150th anniversary of the Last Battle of the Civil War fought there on May 12th, 1865. Professor Zavaleta and his historic ranch feature in the first chapters of Border Odyssey.

Latino Union soldiers who fought in the Confederate state of Texas were only one of many different groups present at what constitutes the most diverse battle site ever on U.S. soil — all of this weeks after Lee’s surrender at Appomattox.

Border Odyssey readers will be saddened to hear that the ranch caretaker named Santiago, who figures prominently in the book, died recently. But we’re happy to hear that Prof. Zavaleta gave a copy of book to Santiago’s widow. Our condolences to the family. Gracias por todo, Santiago!

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