Mission is a town of about 69,000 people on the southern border of Texas, on the Rio Grande River. It sits right across the river from Mexico. Mission has very mild winters, with temperatures in the 70s, and hot summers, with average temperatures reaching close to 100 degrees in July and August. The sun shines at least part of every day of the year, making Mission a wonderful place for outdoor activities. Anyone moving to Mission will find a small city with a big heart.
Economy:
The median household income in Mission is lower than that of the state average. The cost of living in Mission is quite a bit lower than the national average. Citrus is the major industry in Mission. It is a multi-million dollar business in the area. Other employers are Frito-Lay, T-Mobile and Panasonic. The proximity to Mexico makes it a good place for business with Mexican companies.
History:
The Spanish settled the areas along the Rio Grande River over 200 years ago. King Carlos III ordered in 1762 that the area be divided equally, and the portion known as 55 and 57 were established near present day Mission. These parcels were sold to J. W. Hoit and Captain Conway, who started the Rancho La Lomita Land Company, named after the historic La Lomita Mission built there by the Spaniards. In 1908 the city was founded and named in honor of the mission. That same year, the railroad arrived. Citrus became a thriving industry in the area and is now a multi-million dollar business in Mission.
Tourism:
Mission is the site of the World Birding Center. There are nine sites in the area to protect natural habitats. The National Butterfly Center has outdoor gardens filled with native nectar plants that attract rare native butterflies as well as hundreds of other types. The Anzalduas Park and Dam is a great place for outdoor activities and boating, as well as a good spot to see native wildlife. La Lomita Chapel is an adobe mission built in 1865. Los Ebanos ferry is the last remaining hand-drawn ferry that connects Mexico to the US. In January, the annual Texas Citrus Festival is held, with live music, a carnival and ethnic food. The Mission Historical Museum has exhibits relating to the history of the city. Established in 1892, the El Granjeno Cemetery is a wonderful example of the area's villages and past. Our Lady of Guadalupe was built in 1899 and still holds daily mass.