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 (Tohono O’odham and Pascua Yaqui) who 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.

Read more about the history of our U.S.-Mexico Border Culture here.