From the Miller Hotel built in 1849 to the Brulay Chateau constructed in 1896, Brownsville has said goodbye to many historic homes, schools and businesses.

“Though it appeared not important at the time one building gone, the other building gone for a particular reason. If collectively you stand here right now and look at all that’s gone that would’ve given people a second thought to have demolished them in the first place,” said Eugene Fernandez, Historic Brownsville Museum Manager.

“In a cultural since the architecture that iss no longer on the scene is a severe loss for Brownsville. We’re trying to save buildings like this that we won’t have that vacuum in terms of what was an example of turn of the century architecture and all that,” Fernandez said.

Most of the buildings were demolished between the 1950s to the 1980s, including a drive-in theatre, convent and a hospital.

“There wasn’t quite the attention on the heritage at that point in time and unfortunately we can’t bring them back,” he said.

The Dancy Building was built over 100 years ago, today it’s a place where the Cameron County Commissioners have their meetings, it’s a perfect example of how old buildings can be repurposed and restored.

“There are some people in the community now that are conscientious and they are taking steps in order to save these buildings from the wrecking ball,” he said.

Preservationists want to keep that momentum going, with structures like the Pacheco building, the Neale house and El Jardin Hotel.

“Getting people interested now in the art of the refurbishment of these buildings is almighty important,” Fernandez said.

Discussion for refurbishing the Pacheco building and Neale house is ongoing.

