It has the distinction of having originally been established in Mexico, but it is now located in the United States as a result of a transfer of territory in the Gadsden Purchase.

[1][2] The basilica sits on the north side of the town square, and is built of fired brick, with a belfry facade on each corner.

This first building was constructed of mud and logs, and dedicated to the Breton Saint Albinus of Angers (Albino in Spanish), who was born in Vannes, France in 469.

As part of this growth, a new San Albino church was constructed on the north side of the plaza with French architecture.

In 2008, the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in the Vatican granted minor basilica status to San Albino.