May 9th in 1846, during the Mexican War, the Mexican army suffered a defeat at the battle of Resaca de la Palma. Nearly two decades later, in 1865, former Texas governor Francis R. Lubbock was captured by Union forces near Abbeville, GA.
Fast forward to 1916, U.S. President Woodrow Wilson ordered the militias of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona to mobilize and serve on the Mexican border. In 1927, a devastating tornado struck Garland, Texas, destroying much of the town and claiming the lives of 17 people.
In more recent history, in 1967, Austin, TX celebrated “Damito Jo Day” in honor of the local icon. And in 1979, the “Orange Show” opened to the public in east Houston, showcasing unique art and culture.