The House of the Five Arches

Residence of Dr. Ramón Emeterio Betances

In the year of 1865, Betances asked for a building permit to build an ample house with five arches in its front façade. This residence is a monument to the altruism, abnegation and fraternal love and thus, it is distinguished as an emblematic place of the “Sultana del Oeste” (Name the city of Mayaguez is known as)

This distinguished son of Cabo Rojo, was born in April 5th, 1827 in the land where now stands the "Betances' Cradle Masonic Lodge", in the street that bears his name. He is known as the father of the “Patria” (motherland) and the father of the poor.

Accomplished as a Doctor, Literary and politician of radical separatist ideas, who served with honor and pride the “Sultana del Oeste”.

Even though Betances does not need hommage or recognition, we need to nourish ourselves of the heritage and generosity of our most illustrious sons to face challenges and to reach the highest civic goals in life.

This plaque is to let it be known to all and for the future, the historic acts of this illustrious Puertorrican.

Presented by the Lic. Roberto Cardona Ubinas, the city and the people of Mayaguez

Hon. Jose Guilllermo Rodriguez Mayor April 8th, 1993

Translation by Jorge Diaz Figueroa