Spain, Mexico, and the U.S. have viewed the Santa Cruz Valley as a frontier—a remote and sparsely populated landscape full of potential.

When the 1854 Gadsden Purchase transferred political control of the area from Mexico to the U.S., former Mexican nationals abruptly found themselves, their land, and their properties incorporated into a different nation—one that spoke another language and practiced different cultural traditions. Neverthelesss, this did not result in the decline of Mexican customs but rather the blending of cultures shared by residents with diverse backgrounds.

The historic flow of activity across the international border encouraged cooperation between the two nations. From from 1882 to 1886 either military was allowed cross-border pursuit of Apache raiders, and commerce continues to link the nations. Railroad lines starting in Guaymas, Mexico and Kansas City met in in Ambos Nogales (meaning both Nogales’s) where Nogales, Arizona, abuts Nogales, Sonora (both founded in 1882). The cities have grown together, sharing family ties and resources like water, shops, and firefighters.

This cooperation extends up the Santa Cruz Valley, enabling the florescence of a border culture that embraces aspects of Mexico, the United States, and the two Native American tribes that live in the valley—all of which contribute to a vibrant legacy still active today. Their distinct cultural traditions are widely celebrated on both sides of the border through festivals, restaurants, neighborhood tours, and museums.

Learn more about U.S.-Mexico Border Culture here.