Visit Historic Homes and Gardens of Alamos . . . Sonora's Silver City
Once upon a time . . .
Alamos was a flourishing center of wealth and culture. Beginning late in the 17th century the surrounding foothills of the Sierra Madre was a major source of the silver exported to ruling Spain. These mines brought great wealth to Alamos mine owners who built lavish mansions designed and furnished in the finest European traditions. Alamos became a graceful and elegant architectural outpost of Spain with a grand lifestyle to match.
It did not last. Mines were depleted of precious ore, and additionally, the pueblo was periodically ravaged by the Mayo and Yaqui Indians enslaved as mine workers.
As the 20th century dawned, most of the silver kings and their families had fled their once great homes. By the end of the Mexican Revolution the pueblo was left to fall in ruins.
And then . . .
In the 1940's, Alamos was discovered by a North American, Levant Alcorn, who bought and restored one of the largest mansions and opened a fine hotel on the central plaza. The pueblo's charm and friendly people attracted more visitors from north of the border, who in turn began to buy and restore some of the abandoned mansions. Alamos slowly regained its original beauty and grandeur. It is now acknowledged as one of Mexico's national treasures.
Members of the foreign community began to open their homes and gardens to the public for a small fee to fund the establishment of a public library. Later the state of Sonora assumed the responsibility for the library and this informal group recognized the need for assistance to many of the Alamos children for their education. Many families have struggled to afford the tuition required after the sixth grade.
About US
Amigos de Education evolved to assist the community's young students with their education. Amigos is a non profit organization that, for over 25 years, has given full scholarships to hundreds of Alamos children as well as financial assistance to complete their junior and high school education.
Critical support for this program comes in large part from tours of the homes and gardens in this historic community.
We are a non profit 501 (c) (3) volunteer organization dedicated to support the education of Alamos children. Scholarships are provided for academically qualified but demonstratrably needy junior high and high school students.
The Mexican government supports the grade level students and schools, however students in junior high must provide for their uniforms, books, and many supplies. High school students must supply these items plus pay the tuition.
Special Tours may be arranged by contacting us through the website: Amigos.De.Education.org
Thank You for Your Support
Our US IRS number is 98-0156328
Contributions may be given to the Volunteer Guides or mailed to the following address:
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Amigos de Education de Alamos
c/o Heath Wingate
PMB 343
633 North Oracle Road, # 326
Tucson, Arizona 85704
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Please visit us at www.Amigos.De.Education.org