As a genealogical researcher I always enjoy discovering new things about my family. As a historical researcher I search through histories, geographies, biographies, courthouses, museums, cemeteries, archives and, wherever possible, conduct interviews. As a student, I enjoy linking my class research with my passion for family. That is how I selected this research project for college course at Texas A&M University-Commerce.
Up until this project, I had only met one member from the Matamoros branch of my Cross family. Gloria Cross visited in my mother's home and shared some of her family's stories with us. My interest was piqued when she related the story of her grandfather and great-grandfather having a price on their heads during the Mexican revolution. Intrigued, I had to learn more. For giving me that spark of interest I must thank Gloria Cross.
Wanting to give this project life I wished that I could interview her father, Meliton Cross, and search archival records for more information. Toward that aim, my mother and I planned a trip to Brownsville, Texas. Before leaving, Dr. Conrad, archivist for the TAMU-C archives, helped me to plan my research, then my mother and I were on our way.
From the moment we arrived in Brownsville, we were helped from every turn. I must thank Gloria Cross for giving me the idea for this work, and contacting her family on my behalf. I must also thank Yolanda Gonzalez, archivist and historian at the University of Texas Brownsville and president of the Brownsville Historical Society, for helping me find so many resources to study.
To Gloria's family I must say I was overwhelmed by their generosity and graciousness. They each made our stay a truly memorable one. Her father, Meliton H. Cross, and his wife Alicia, allowed us to interview them in their home in Matamoros. Gloria's brother, Jorje Cross gave us lunch and a tour of the "old cemetery" of Matamoros. Her brother Juan Cross gave us an interview and obtained permission to tour the family home "the Cross House." Thanks must also be given to Don Philamon Garza, for restoring the old family home and taking time from his busy schedule to guide us on a the tour of it. Acknowledgment must also be given to Abner Samuel Cross, Jorje's son, who was so kind to us during our stay.
Finally, I must thank the two people who helped me the most. Gloria's sister, Sylvia Cross, took us all over Matamoros, acting as our interpreter everywhere we went; and my mother, who insisted we make the trip and for driving the ten hours each way. This research project was an experience I will always treasure.
"A Cross Across the Border"
