Venice Community Resource Center
The Venice Mexican American Traquero Monument is a testament to the resilience and contributions of the Mexican-American workers who built California’s railroads from the 1870s to the 1930s. Funded and fully backed by the Venice Community Resource Center (VCRC), this monument honors the labor and legacy of these trackers, whose work helped lay the foundation for California’s modern infrastructure.
Our monument serves as a place of remembrance and a beacon for educating the public about this often-overlooked chapter of American history. With support from VCRC, we aim to inspire and empower the diverse community of Venice through cultural activities, educational workshops, and events that highlight Mexican-American history and contributions.
As part of VCRC’s mission to improve the quality of life for underserved communities, this monument embodies our shared values of inclusion, empowerment, and cultural celebration.
VCRC proudly supports this project to connect people through history and foster a sense of pride and unity within the community. The monument will serve as a lasting tribute to the trackers and as a vibrant gathering place where generations can come together to honor the past while building a brighter future.
VMATM Dedication Team
As we approach the completion of the Mexican American Traquero Workers Monument in 2025, our dedicated team of professionals is committed to ensuring that the monument remains a beautiful and lasting tribute. These skilled individuals are already at work, setting the groundwork for maintaining and preserving this important piece of history.
Meet Our Team:
- Paola Pini – Architect: Lead designer, ensuring the monument's structure and aesthetic remain timeless.
- Tony McDowall – Project Advisor: Overseeing the project's direction and offering expert guidance throughout construction and maintenance phases.
- Todd Smith – Electrician: Responsible for the monument's lighting and electrical systems, enhancing its visibility and accessibility.
- Eric Garber – Plumber: Managing all water-related installations to ensure the monument's fountains and water features run smoothly.
- Rufo Melgoza – Construction Lead: Supervising the monument's build and ensuring the highest standards of craftsmanship.
- Glen Yeron – Tile Technicians: In charge of the intricate tilework, adding artistic detail and durability to the monument.
- William Galinato – Pool Maintenance Technician: Tasked with maintaining any water features, keeping them clean and operational year-round.
This dedicated team is already laying the groundwork to ensure the monument remains a well-maintained and cherished part of our community for years to come.
The Mexican American Traquero Workers Monument at Windward Circle, Venice. Completion: 2025.
Jorge Marín: Celebrating History and Culture Through Art
Jorge Marín's Contribution to the Venice Mexican American Traquero Monument
Jorge Marín, one of Mexico's most prominent contemporary sculptors, has been entrusted with bringing to life the Venice Mexican American Traquero Monument. Known for his evocative use of bronze and his ability to capture human emotion and history, Marín's work on this monument stands as a tribute to the underrepresented Mexican American railroad workers, or "traqueros," who played a crucial role in the construction of North America's first transcontinental railroad.
The monument will feature a bronze sculpture of a traquero standing with his family, symbolizing the strength, sacrifices, and resilience of Mexican American communities. The work not only honors the individuals but also highlights the often overlooked contributions of Mexican and Chinese laborers in the development of the United States' railway system.
Marín has expressed his deep respect for the project, stating: “It is an honor to create a piece that acknowledges the hard work and endurance of these families, whose stories have too often been forgotten in the broader narrative of American history.”
(MyNewsLA.com)(Yo! Venice!).
His involvement in the project aligns with his broader artistic vision of capturing human dignity and the emotional weight of historical moments through his powerful sculptures.
Jorge Marín, renowned Mexican sculptor, honors Mexican American traqueros through his powerful art.