This exhibit focuses on the themes of identity, place, and cuisine by exploring the various dishes these grandmothers prepared in their kitchens, such as chiles en nogada, mole, tamales, and pozole to name a few. The dishes and artifacts in Abuelita’s Kitchen: Mexican Food Stories highlight the rich food heritage of Mexican immigrant communities and address some of the shared challenges faced by these grandmothers as immigrants and Mexican-Americans.
As visitors go through the exhibit, they will learn about each woman’s immigration journey, their deep connections to their home states in Mexico, and the diverse neighborhoods that became their home. The narratives of Mexican and Mexican-American women have been underrepresented in museum collections. By capturing the histories and family recipes of women who are immigrants, and non-English-speaking, we enrich our understanding and gain a deeper appreciation for the significant contributions these women have made to the food traditions of the United States.
To celebrate our own culinary heritage and vibrant community, the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History has partnered with local establishments to feature additional stories of Fort Worth women who have made an impact in Fort Worth’s culinary culture. Abuelita’s Kitchen: Mexican Food Stories will include stories and personal artifacts from Fort Worth favorites like Los Vaqueros, Tokyo Cafe, Don Artemio, and Birrieria y Taqueria Cortez.
Throughout the duration of the exhibit, Museum guests and community members will have the opportunity to submit their own recipes, in person or online, to create a community cookbook which will be available to the public free of charge once the exhibit ends.
On February 9, 2025 Museum Members will receive early access to the exhibit for a private Member preview from 12 PM to 1 PM. Beginning at 1 PM, the exhibit will be open to the general public.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday, from 12 PM to 5 PM. Special hours may apply. Abuelita’s Kitchen: Mexican Food Stories is included with museum admission or membership. Admission is $14 for seniors, $16 for adults, $12 for juniors, and free for children under two years old. Tickets can be reserved online at www.fwmuseum.org.
Exhibition Support
Abuelita’s Kitchen: Mexican Food Stories was developed by USC professor Sarah Portnoy with support from California Humanities and LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes. The exhibition tours through Exhibit Envoy, a nonprofit.
About the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
About LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes
LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a community hub where people gather to celebrate Latinx culture through transformative exhibitions, music, dance, culinary arts, and multigenerational artmaking and storytelling experiences. An anchor cultural institution in Los Angeles County, LA Plaza centers the Latino experience and provides a space to uplift, share, and preserve the stories of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and Latinx people in Southern California. For more information, visit www.lapca.org.
About Exhibit Envoy
Exhibit Envoy provides traveling exhibitions and professional services to museums throughout California. For more information, visit www.exhibitenvoy.org.
The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History, a distinguished institution established in 1941, is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and proudly holds Affiliate status with the Smithsonian Institute. Anchored by a diverse and enriching collection spanning science and history, the museum is committed to lifelong learning. Engaging visitors through vibrant programs and exhibits, it interprets the rich tapestry of Texas and the Southwest. The museum’s commitment to education is reflected in its innovative programs, designed to inspire and educate learners of all ages. From interactive workshops to immersive exhibits, the museum provides a dynamic environment for curiosity and intellectual growth. For more information about educational programs, exhibits, and events, visit www.fwmuseum.org.
###