Built in 1840 for José Pomar, a wealthy merchant from Mallorca, Spain, the Picó Pomar Residence represents the austerity and elegance of the Spanish neoclassical style. During the second half of the 19th century, it functioned as one of Puerto Rico's most active and important import-export centers. With store and storage space at ground level and residence quarters above, the building follows 19th-century Spanish urban tradition. During the Spanish-American War the house was occupied by Lt. Col. Rafael Martínez Illescas of the Spanish army, who was killed in the conflict, and later by U.S. General James Harrison Wilson (1837-1925). The property and its contents were purchased by Coamo's Municipal Government and turned into a museum.

Picó Pomar Residence, also called the Coamo Historic Museum, is located at the corner of Mario Braschi and José Quinton sts. in the city of Coamo, Puerto Rico. Call 787-825-1150 ext. 206 for more information.

Credits and Sources:

Nancy Cox, Undergraduate Student, University of West Florida