The Tigua of Ysleta del Sur Pueblo were vital to the security and defense of the El Paso region during the Spanish, Mexican and early American periods (1680-1890). In 1883, The El Paso Daily Times recognized their contribution in the following obituary of the late scout, Bernardo Olguín:

“Perhaps there was no guide in this section of the country who had such a thorough knowledge of the mountains and plains as Bernardo Olguín who must have been nearly, if not quit, seventy years of age, when he died. About two years ago his brother Simon, who was equally skilled as a guide, was killed by the Apaches. There are many in this city and throughout Texas and New Mexico who will remember the service of these men in the early days on the preliminary surveys for the Texas Pacific Road, with different expeditions, and with government surveys and citizens, who required their services, they led the way over the mountains and plains for years, and many stories of the fidelity and skill of Bernardo and his brothers will be called to mind by this announcement of the latter's death" (El Paso Daily Times, April 12, 1883).