Order of the Damas de Galvez

Order of the Damas de Galvez is a women's unit of equal status to the men's Order of Granaderos de Galvez. Both are patriotic organizations dedicated to honoring the memory of General Bernardo de Galvez and other Spaniards who aided American Colonies during the War for Independence. Charles Barrera, a lifelong Texan, pursued his inspiration for forming the men's organization in 1975 while planning a Bicentennial celebration parade in San Antonio to recognize the importance of General Bernardo de Galvez and Spain's contributions to America's Independence.

Charles Barrera and five charter members founded the national Order of Granaderos de Galvez in 1975. In June 1977 Alicia Barrera, Charles Barrera's wife, founded the Order of the Damas de Galvez in San Antonio. In recognition of their devotion in founding the organizations, Charles and Alicia Barrera were given the lifetime honorary titles of Supreme Governor and First Dama. By 1978, chapters of both organizations emerged in El Paso, Galveston, and Houston. Alicia served an active leadership role in the Order of the Damas de Galvez through the 1990s.

Order of the Damas de Galvez held monthly and later bimonthly meetings to discuss participation in community events, election of officers, attendance at annual national meetings, and where to make donations. Activities of the organization included sponsoring a mass on the birthday of General Bernardo de Galvez, donating books to schools and colleges, and planning for community events such as the Pageant of the Three Kings.

From the guide to the Order of the Damas de Galvez Records MS 21., 1977-2000, (University of Texas at San Antonio Libraries Special Collections)