Jennifer Herrera

Introduction

Born and raised in the heart of San Antonio, Texas I have always had a fascination with the city’s people and the rich history. I have over 8 years of non-profit experience serving the greater San Antonio community; however, my passion always was archaeology. After a fulfilling career in the non-profit sector, I took leave and started the journey into a professional archaeology career. Within three years I have learned so much and I’m ready to take the next step into a lifelong goal with the support of both my husband and my son.

Research

I intend to bring more recognition to the indigenous people of south Texas, the Coahuiltecans. While they are a state recognized tribe there is still much to learn about them through the cultural material that comes from south Texas archaeological sites. It is also my intent to connect more Tejanos, or native-born Texans of Mexican-indigenous decent, to their indigenous roots. Most assume that because they are of Mexican decent, they must be of Aztec or Mixtec decent, but there are more localized tribes prove contrary to this. I, myself was one of these Tejanas, but only have extensive research I was able to trace my indigenous roots. My goal is that the cultural material and archaeological sites will be shared with the Tejanos much more than it is today. 

Other Activities

Exploring the state of Texas through its national parks and what the local cities/towns have to offer.

Publications

Consulting Reports, Contributing Author

Hollingshead, Analise, Brooke Bonorden, and Jennifer Herrera
2021    Archaeological Investigation of the Echtle Offsite Sewer Project, San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas. Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc. San Antonio

Leroy, Adam and Jennifer Herrera
2021      Archaeological Investigation of the Graham Tract Project, San Antonio, Bexar County, Texas. Pape-Dawson Engineers, Inc, San Antonio