ROMA

Population 8,438

Altitude 200

General

Founded in 1765, part of Jose de Escandon's Colony, around mission established 16 years earlier. On banks of Rio Grande, town was important riverboat shipping point until coming of railroads and highways. (Rio Grande is no longer navigable.) Homes, stores and ancient mission resemble town lifted bodily from interior of Mexico. Producers of film "Viva Zapata" chose Roma for outdoor scenes.

Attractions

• FALCON STATE RECREATION PARK - 572.6 acres on the shores of Falcon Reservoir offer cabins, boat docks, camping, picnicking, fishing, swimming, trailer sites with electricity, rest rooms with showers, groceries, snack bar, and a 3,500 foot airstrip. Located about 14 miles northwest via U.S. 83, F.M. 2098, Park Road 46; also accessible from Zapata. Admission.
• ROMA HISTORICAL MUSEUM - Changing exhibits trace influence of American, Spanish and Mexican cultures. Historic arts and crafts. Open Mon. to Fri. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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