This is a place for discussions of history and historic preservation of old downtown Tucson and the five Historic Preservation Zones. I will publish articles here when it seems helpful. Useful material from others is welcome. Readers are invited to comment on posts regarding reasonable historic preservation, better understanding of our history and to serve the interests of old downtown Tucson residents. You may be invited to post here also; please let me know if you want to do so. Much of the research and descriptive text have been obtained with Perplexity AI. Feedback on incorrect information or site malfunctions will be very helpful.

Barrio Historico

Barrio Historico is a City of Tucson Historic Preservation Zone also known as Barrio Libre. The latter name is best to use for research on the internet. It is notable for its extensive collection of adobe buildings and its rich cultural history. 

Historical Background
  • Establishment: Barrio Libre was established near an important water supply and became home to many Mexican immigrants who were working-class families. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the 1880s brought a wave of Chinese immigrants who also settled in the area.
  • Architecture: The neighborhood is known for having the most extensive collection of adobe buildings in the United States, with structures ranging from 50 to 100 years old, most designed by their owners. The architectural styles include Bungalow/Craftsman, Queen Anne, and Sonoran Adobe.
  • Cultural Significance: In the late 19th century, Barrio Libre was a vibrant Hispanic neighborhood with close-packed row houses. It was a district for Mexican ranching families and had a dense population of murals.
Changes and Challenges
  • Urban Renewal: In the 1960s and 1970s, the neighborhood faced significant changes due to gentrification. Many buildings were destroyed, and families were displaced to make way for the Tucson Convention Center in 1971.
  • Community Action: The community took action to prevent further destruction, notably protesting against the construction of the Butterfield Expressway. This activism led to efforts to revitalize and restore the neighborhood's historic buildings.
Preservation and Modern Day
  • Historic Designation: Barrio Libre was added to the National Register of Historic Places on October 18, 1978. The district includes more than 200 contributing structures with relatively few non-conforming buildings.
  • Current Status: Today, Barrio Libre remains a vibrant community with many adobe buildings preserved as they were in the 19th century. The area serves both local businesses and residences, maintaining its historical and cultural significance.
Notable Structures
  • Carrillo House: Dating from at least the 1850s, it was originally home to Francisco Carrillo, one of Tucson's early civic leaders.
  • Teatro Carmen: Opened in 1915, it was one of the first theaters in Tucson devoted exclusively to Spanish dramatic works. It has served various functions over the years and is currently undergoing renovation.
  • Barrio Libre's rich history and cultural heritage make it a unique and significant part of Tucson's landscape. 
Barrio Libre's rich history and cultural heritage make it a unique and significant part of Tucson's landscape.

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