Felix Tijerina ( 1905-1965 ), son of an itinerant farm worker, had no formal education but was motivated to learn English as a teenager in Sugar Land, Texas. He became a highly successful Mexican American restaurant owner, civic leader, and champion of education for underprivileged Mexican American children. One of Tijerina's greatest achievements was his sponsorship of the "Little School of the 400" in the late 1950s, in which Mexican American children were taught 400 basic words to help them in English-speaking schools. This activity began through Tijerina's involvement in the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). He served as the national president of this organization for four consecutive terms beginning in 1956.
Janie Gonzales was born in Sandyfork, Texas, on December 20, 1908. In 1928 she moved to Houston and in 1933 married Felix Tijerina. Together they developed a successful restaurant business, became involved in civic activities, and were leaders of Houston's Mexican American community. After the death of her husband, Janie Tijerina established a scholarship foundation in Felix's memory to help students attend college. She continued to be an active participant in civic and business groups.
From the guide to the Felix Tijerina, Sr. Family Papers MSS 0108., 1941-1975, Bulk 1950s-1970s, (Houston Metropolitan Research Center, Houston Public Library)
