History

Laredo Was Founded in 1755 Under Spanish Rule

Laredo is one of the oldest continuously occupied communities in Texas, founded under a Spanish colonial program more than 270 years ago.

Webb County History & Culture

On May 15, 1755, Tomás Sánchez de la Barrera y Garza founded Laredo along the Rio Grande as part of José de Escandón's colonization of Nuevo Santander. A small group of families settled the site. By 1767, a royal commission visited, assigned land grants, and set up local government. By 1789, about 700 people lived there.

Laredo's long history means it predates Texas statehood, the Republic of Texas, and even Mexican independence. The community has been governed under Spanish, Mexican, Republic of Texas, Confederate, and U.S. flags at various times. This deep history shows up in Laredo's architecture, street names, and family ties that cross the Rio Grande.

Source to confirm: Texas Handbook Online – Laredo, TX

More Webb County notes

Property Tax

Who Handles Property Taxes in Webb County

Two separate offices handle property taxes here: the appraisal district sets your home's value, and the tax assessor-collector sends the bill.

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Property Tax Exemption

Lower Your Tax Bill With a Homestead Exemption

If you own and live in your home in Webb County, you can apply for a homestead exemption that reduces the taxable value of your property.

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Agricultural Valuation

Ranch Land Can Be Taxed on What It Produces, Not What It's Worth

Qualifying ranch and farm land in Webb County can be appraised at its agricultural productivity value, which is usually much lower than market value.

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Vehicle Registration

Register Your Vehicle at the Webb County Tax Office

Vehicle titles and registration renewals in Webb County go through the county tax assessor-collector's office, not a separate DMV office.

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