El Paso Museum of History

Nestled in the heart of downtown El Paso, the El Paso Museum of History stands as a beacon of cultural and historical preservation, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through over 400 years of the United States/Mexico border region's rich and diverse history. With more than 16,000 square feet of exhibition space, this museum offers a treasure trove of artifacts, stories, and interactive experiences that bring the past to life in an engaging and educational manner.

The Origins of the Museum

The El Paso Museum of History has a fascinating origin story that dates back to 1974 when it was initially established as a Cavalry Museum. At that time, the museum focused on the mounted history of the West, showcasing the significant role cavalry played in the region's development. However, in 1980, the museum's scope expanded, and it was renamed the El Paso Museum of History to reflect its broader mission of preserving and presenting the history of the entire border region.

By 1990, the museum had grown in importance and complexity, necessitating its own dedicated director. This marked a new era of professional management and curatorial expertise, which laid the foundation for the museum's future growth and development. Recognizing the need for a larger and more accessible facility, the City of El Paso included the museum in a bond issue in 2000, which ultimately led to the construction of a new building in downtown El Paso. The new museum building opened its doors on June 16, 2007, and within just one year, it had welcomed over 30,000 visitors, playing a crucial role in rejuvenating the downtown area.

Exploring the Exhibitions

As you step into the El Paso Museum of History, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of captivating exhibitions that delve into the region's past. The museum features a mix of permanent and traveling exhibitions, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover. The permanent exhibitions provide a comprehensive overview of the border region's history, from the early indigenous cultures to the Spanish colonial period, the Mexican-American War, and the development of modern El Paso.

One of the museum's standout features is its commitment to interactive and engaging displays. Visitors can explore a wide range of artifacts, photographs, and documents that provide a tangible connection to the past. The museum also hosts special programs and events throughout the year, offering unique opportunities to learn about specific aspects of the region's history through lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities.

The Wall of Giants

An annual highlight at the El Paso Museum of History is the Wall of Giants project. This initiative honors individuals, entities, locations, or events that have had a lasting impact on the city of El Paso. Each year, a new honoree is selected by a community group known as the Circle of Giants, and their contributions are celebrated through a dedicated exhibition.

Past honorees have included legendary basketball coach Don Haskins and the historic Glory Road, Farah Manufacturing Inc., El Paso's mayors, the missions and their people, the University of Texas at El Paso, and Fort Bliss. These exhibitions provide a deeper understanding of the people and institutions that have shaped El Paso's identity and continue to influence its future.

The Digital Wall: Digie

One of the most innovative and exciting features of the El Paso Museum of History is the Digital Information Gateway in El Paso, affectionately known as Digie. This state-of-the-art digital wall, which opened on February 14, 2015, is the first of its kind in the United States and only the second in the world. Comprising five massive touch screens, Digie offers an interactive, three-dimensional view of El Paso's history, starting from the late 1600s to the present day.

Visitors can engage with the wall by browsing through a vast collection of images, videos, and information. The 40-foot-long by 6-foot-high wall allows users to search for specific topics or simply explore the rich tapestry of El Paso's past. Additionally, a smaller, mobile companion wall can be transported to schools, malls, and community centers, bringing this immersive experience to a wider audience.

Digie is more than just a display; it serves as a dynamic archive where El Paso residents, visitors, and former residents can contribute their own pictures and videos. These contributions are carefully screened by the curator, ensuring that the wall continues to grow and evolve with new content. Funded by a 2012 bond issue, the creation of Digie was inspired by a collaboration between the museum's director and the director of the Copenhagen museum, where the first digital wall was installed.

Plan Your Visit

A visit to the El Paso Museum of History is a must for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the border region. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student, or simply curious about the past, the museum offers a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the unique history of El Paso. With its engaging exhibitions, innovative digital wall, and commitment to community involvement, the El Paso Museum of History stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the people who have called this region home for centuries.

So, make sure to add the El Paso Museum of History to your itinerary and embark on a journey through time that will inspire and educate you about the fascinating history of this vibrant border city.