2008-07-21

Center for Public History, University of Houston; University of Houston Libraries, University of Houston

This is an oral history interview with Christine Reyna conducted as part of the Houston History Project. Christine Reyna grew up in the Magnolia Park neighborhood of Houston. She is the second generation owner of Reyna's Florist and Gift Shop and begins the interview talking about the importance of flower arrangements in some Mexican and Mexican American culture practices. The majority of the interview is a reflection of life in 1950s and 1960s Houston. Reyna discusses swimming in the summer, going to sock hops, shopping downtown, curanderas, and going to theatres like Azteca. At one point in the interview, Reyna reads from a document which gives the history of Magnolia Park, how it was established, changes in the ethnic population over time, and business that existed. Other topics discusses include the failed Mercado on Navigation, Plans for the centennial celebration of Magnolia Park, and changes in the east end neighborhoods with new condos and the metro being introduced. Interviewer: Ernesto Valdés.

interviews

Mexican Americans; Reyna Ybarra, Irma Christine

Houston, Texas

Oral Histories from the Houston History Project

University of Houston Libraries Special Collections

English

Collection
University of Houston Libraries Special Collections
Houston History Archives
Oral Histories from the Houston History Project

Preservation Location: ark:/84475/pm6825x8400