On Saturday, January 11, at 2:30pm, the Colton Area Museum Association (CAMA) guest speaker program will feature former President of the Colton Conquistadors Club, Mr. Robert Franco Melchor. Born and raised in Colton, Mr. Melchor has made it a life-long goal to promote and perpetuate the memory of this South Colton youth organization.
Mr. Robert Franco Melchor was a member since its inception in the 1950’s, and served in various capacities, including club President until it formally disbanded in 1978. It was formed as a youth club and drew its “teenage” membership mostly from the South Colton area. When Mr. Melchor started, he was in junior high school, as were many of the original members.
The main purpose of the organization was twofold: first, to be law-abiding and provide a group “protective” support system, especially for the Mexican-American youths, who were often bullied and intimidated by older male youths; and second, to become active in the Colton community, such as selling cans to raise money for member families who needed financial help. In addition, the Conquistadors often came together to help individual members with personal problems, big or small. For the members, it was “all for one and one for all.”
Today, the Conquistadors meet on a monthly basis, including original members, friends, and invited guests. Although the original purpose is a historical by-line, the guys still enjoy sharing old stories, and according to current president, Robert Sanchez, “the brotherhood is still there.”
Community residents and visitors alike are invited to attend this exciting event on Saturday, January 11, at 2:30pm, in the Colton Area Museum assembly room. The Colton Area Museum Association offers an interesting slate of guest speakers throughout the year. They represent a wide variety of perspectives and experiences that are not only informative, but inspirational for those who want to know more about Colton’s History – past, present, and future.
The Colton Area Museum will also be open that day, January 11, 11:00am – 2:00pm providing the opportunity to see the many outstanding displays of Colton history. The CAMA address is 380 N. La Cadena Dr. in Colton. Regular CAMA hours are Wednesdays and Fridays from 1:00pm-4:00pm, and on Saturdays 11:00am-2:00pm.
For more information about the museum and it programs, contact the museum at 824-8814, or Dr. G at 213-3730