Yahualica, Jalisco, originally inhabited by the Caxcanes, experienced significant change with the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, led by Nuño de Guzmán. During the colonial period, it developed as an agricultural community. The town underwent further transformation during Mexico's fight for independence in the early 19th century and continued to modernize in the following centuries.

A big part of Yahualica's history is the story of El Señor de Encino. This famous tale of oral tradition is about a farm worker who is an alcoholic and an abusive husband.

Every day on his way home from the bar, he passes by a tree branch. Every day, the tree branch knocks his hat down and it upsets him. One day, he decides to cut the branch down. The moment he does, he sees that the branch starts bleeding. When he looks at it further, he realizes that it resembles the image of Christ. He immediately takes it to the priest.

Since then, El Señor de Encino has been the image everyone in town prays to. The image is always celebrated the week of September 23, when it makes a tour across the whole town. This is called Las Fiestas, and it’s a week-long celebration with games, carnival rides, food vendors, and firework shows. It’s so much fun, and I always get so excited when I get to go.

The history of the area is so rich and it had to do with a lot of the morals and values I grew up with.

Religion is a central aspect of daily life, with most people attending church every day, reflecting the strong influence of the Roman Catholic Church. The culture of Yahualica is heavily shaped by its historical background and achievements, rooted in centuries of habitation by nomadic tribes and native American heritage.

Yahualicas history and achievements were something that I was actually unfimiliar before this project.The area was once home to the Aztecs, whose presence has left a lasting impact on local traditions and cultural practices. Additionally, Yahualica's location in Jalisco, a state known for having the third richest economy in Mexico, contributes to its vibrant cultural landscape. Jalisco is renowned as the birthplace of mariachi music and Mexican rodeos, both of which play a significant role in the cultural identity of Yahualica. These elements combine to create a rich tapestry of history, religion, and culture that defines life in Yahualica.

All of these topics had a very strong influence on my parents upbringing as well as mine. When being surrounded by a community so devoted to their faith it educates and inspires you. Part of the reason I consider myself to be such a devout catholic is because of the habits and customs I learned from my family over there. The areas connection to native american and aztec tradition makes you grow a sense of respect for my ancestors culture. Overall with these elements together they create a strong moral framework grounded in faith, community, cultural pride, and respect for history.

Yahualica is so beautiful. I love it because it’s so different from the United States . The houses are made differently, with everything uniquely built and having a very antique style.

My grandpa and his family actually did a lot of the architectural designs and carvings of half of the structures in Yahualica. That’s something else I love about going there—everywhere I look reminds me of my family. That's why I find it so beautiful, there is beauty everywhere but  especially in the places you call home. Although to others it might seem like an impoverished town, which I understand because it’s something we aren’t used to, I just want to show that you can find beauty in things that aren’t necessarily familiar to us.

The plaza is full of familiar people who always say hello to me, the architecture I walk past on the way to my aunt’s house, my godfather’s ranch, and the house my mother was born in. Everything in that town leads back to me, which makes it beautiful to me. Everything there is a part of me, and I love every part of it.

In conclusion, I hope you learned not only something about Yahualica but also about me and the deep connection I have with my heritage. My home is a part of who I am, shaping my identity and values. I am proud of it, and I choose to represent it wherever and whenever I get the chance. Appreciating and acknowledging where you come from is something I think everyone should do. By doing it myself, I have developed a deeper understanding and relationship with my home and culture. This connection provides me with a sense of belonging and pride that enriches my life. I encourage everyone to explore and embrace their roots, as it can lead to a greater appreciation of one's own unique story and the diverse world we all share.