Cotulla Main Street celebrates 10th anniversary

Cotulla Main Street has recently announced the 10th anniversary of its Texas Historical Commission designation.

The program earned its recognition in October 2006, as a Texas Main Street City by the State of Texas and joined 89 Main Street Cities in their mission of promoting economic development. In May of 2006, the Cotulla City Council adopted a resolution citing their official goal of revitalizing the central business district with the context of the preservation and rehabilitation of its historic buildings. The program functions as a one-staff-member office, a 13-chair Advisory Board, and volunteer assistance for events. General Manager, Patsy Leigh has proudly served as the organization’s lead since 2008.

“While I’ve been involved with the Main Street Program, we have been able to see many improvements in our historic district downtown,” Leigh said. “There are still projects to be completed, but they will come about in the very near future.” Cotulla Main Street Stakeholders, (L-R) Gil Rocha, Deryl Morris, Councilwoman Trish Garcia, Mayor Jose Javier Garcia, Councilwoman Mary Koraleski, Erica Bustamante, Patsy Leigh and Larry Dovalina.

Community Investment

The first Protestant church in Cotulla, this congregation was organized in 1881 as the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. The first services were held in the home of John Freeman by the Rev. W. H. Keck. In 1883 the members built a frame chapel at the site of the present parsonage. The only church facility in town, it was shared with Presbyterian and Baptist congregations. The current brick sanctuary was constructed in 1906 during the pastorate of the Rev. Temple G. Woolls. An educational building was added in 1928.