El Paso's Architectural Antiquity: A Quest for the Oldest Building (That Isn't Haunted...Probably)
El Paso, Texas, a city where the sun shines bright and history whispers in the adobe walls. But which wall whispers the loudest? Today, we embark on a thrilling (well, maybe mildly thrilling) expedition to uncover the oldest building standing proud in this sun-baked metropolis.
The Contenders: A Hodgepodge of History
El Paso's history is a rich tapestry woven with threads of Spanish colonialism, the Wild West era, and modern development. This means our contenders for "oldest building" come in a few flavors:
The Stealthy Survivor: The Montgomery Building
This unassuming fellow, built sometime between 1881 and 1882, holds the title of oldest existing commercial building. It's a bit of a chameleon, having housed everything from a drugstore to its current occupant (let's just say they specialize in, ahem, interesting adult gifts). Fun fact: the infamous "Four Dead in Five Seconds" gunfight happened just months before construction began on the Montgomery Building. Talk about dramatic beginnings!The Whisperings of the Past: The Mission Trail
El Paso sits cheek-to-cheek with Juarez, Mexico, and across the Rio Grande lies a historical heavyweight: The Mission of Guadalupe. Founded in the 1660s, this mission church is one of the oldest standing structures in the entire region. However, there's a bit of an asterisk here. The original adobe building is now incorporated into the much newer Ciudad Juarez Cathedral. So, it's like a cool grandpa living with his energetic grandkids.UTEP's "Origin Story": The Centennial Trio
The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) boasts a trio of buildings celebrating their 100th birthday in 2017: Old Main, Prospect Hall (formerly the Power House), and Quinn Hall (once the Chemistry Building). These grand structures were constructed in 1917, marking the university's humble beginnings. While not the absolute oldest, they represent a significant chapter in El Paso's educational journey.
So, Who Wins?
This is where things get a little murky. The Montgomery Building holds the "oldest commercial building" title, but the Mission of Guadalupe has a much longer history (grandpa status, remember?). Ultimately, it depends on what kind of "old" you're looking for.
But hey, here's the important takeaway: El Paso has a fascinating architectural heritage, with buildings whispering tales of the Wild West, colonial missions, and the rise of higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions (El Paso's Oldest Building Edition):
How to visit the Montgomery Building?
Take a stroll down El Paso Street and keep an eye out for the unique facade - you can't miss it!
How to explore the Mission Trail?
A trip to Juarez, Mexico, is necessary. Proper visa and documentation are required, so plan accordingly.
How to appreciate UTEP's Centennial Buildings?
A scenic walk around the UTEP campus is all you need!
How haunted is the oldest building?
Well, that depends on who you ask. The Montgomery Building might have some stories to tell, but there's nothing confirmed...yet.
How much fun can you have learning about El Paso's history?
A surprising amount! So, put on your metaphorical Indiana Jones hat and start exploring!