The truth is that the connection between Uruguay and Montevideo, Minnesota, USA, is surprising. The name inspired by our capital was important in strengthening the bond, but it was the statue of Artigas that triggered everything, acting as a Trojan horse of identity: it arrived by ship and was donated to the town of 5,000 inhabitants by schoolchildren from Colonia and Soriano in 1949.
Its arrival had such an impact that a traditional local festival called “Montevideo Fiesta Days” was created, and the sculpture of our national hero was installed on the main street, forming what is now known as “Artigas Plaza.”
Over the last 75 years, this bond has grown stronger, with the townspeople learning the customs of Montevideo, Uruguay, and coming to know José Artigas as the father of Uruguayan independence.
The inhabitants of the city of the same name have recreated customs and symbols without the intervention of Uruguayan citizens, as there are no immigrants from Uruguay living in the area. The culture of our country is present and freely replicated in a self-taught way.
Mate is drunk in several homes, the Chippewa Candombe troupe parades through the streets, and cowboys sing the national anthem at the wild bull rodeo. Artigas is also present in the local police logo, and the Montevideo Thunderhawks play American football emphasizing their charrúa spirit.
The colors of the Uruguayan flag are also found on traffic signs, water tanks, and the queens of Montevideo, who dress in traditional Uruguayan costumes inspired by paintings by Pedro Figari, complete with combs.
This visual story reflects the surprise I had, which I still have and which is hard to believe as Uruguayan: there is a Montevideo in the United States where Artigas is also a hero.
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