The Barrio. In 1881 in the Tucson directory, the following was written: "Barrio Libre. This designation was given by the Mexican residents to that quarter of the city lying along Meyer and adjacent streets, southward of the business portion of the city, occupied by the Americans. It means free zone, and in earlier times was allowed to remain without legal restraints or the presence of a police force. Here the Mescalian could imbibe his fill, and either male or female could, in peaceful intoxication, sleep on the sidewalk or in the middle of the streets, with all their ancient rights respected. Fandangoes, monte, chicken fights, Groils, and all the amusement of the lower class of Mexicans, were, in this quarter, indulged in without restraint; and to this day much of the old time regime prevails, although the encroachments of the American element portend the ultimate doom of the customs in the Barrio Libre....."
Today the barrios are colorful renditions of their former days of mostly colorless mud and bricks. I like to photograph the doors of the barrios. Residents outdo each other in their creative endeavors to make their door standout. However not all of them get in the spirit. It is entertaining to wander through the narrow streets and see the colors and designs not of just the doors but the dwellings also.........
Today the barrios are colorful renditions of their former days of mostly colorless mud and bricks. I like to photograph the doors of the barrios. Residents outdo each other in their creative endeavors to make their door standout. However not all of them get in the spirit. It is entertaining to wander through the narrow streets and see the colors and designs not of just the doors but the dwellings also.........
All Photographs © 2016 Patrick Mulligan Photography