Magoffin Homestead

Nestled in the heart of El Paso, Texas, the Magoffin Homestead stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural tapestry of the American Southwest. This historic site, now known as the Magoffin Home State Historic Site, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life and times of one of the region's pioneering families. With its adobe walls and Greek revival details, the homestead is a beautiful blend of architectural styles that reflects the diverse influences of the area.

The History of the Magoffin Homestead

The Magoffin Home was built in 1875 by Joseph Magoffin, a prominent figure in El Paso's early development. Joseph, along with his wife Octavia, made this house their home, and it remained in the family for 109 years. The home is a striking example of the Territorial style, characterized by its thick adobe walls that provide natural insulation against the harsh desert climate. These walls keep the house cool during the scorching summer months and warm during the chilly desert winters.

The house itself consists of three wings, each constructed at different times. The last wing, built in the 1880s, serves as the central connection between the two earlier wings. The homestead boasts 19 rooms, 8 fireplaces, and impressive 14-foot ceilings, making it a grand and spacious residence. Many of the original furnishings are still on display, including an 11.5-foot-tall half-tester bed that adds a touch of Victorian elegance to the home.

A Glimpse into the Magoffin Family

Joseph Magoffin was not just a pioneer; he was a man of significant influence in El Paso. He and his wife Octavia raised two children, James and Josephine, in this historic home. James married Anne Buford, and together they had four children: Anne, James, Mary, and Jim. Tragically, James passed away in 1913 from appendicitis, but Anne continued to care for her father-in-law, Joseph, until his death in 1923.

Josephine, on the other hand, married William Jefferson Glasgow, who would later become a Brigadier General. Their wedding was an event of grand proportions, hailed by newspapers as the wedding of the century. After Joseph's death, Josephine inherited the house, while James' family relocated to Los Angeles. The last member of the Magoffin family to reside in the home was Octavia Magoffin Glasgow, Josephine's daughter, who lived there until her death in 1986.

The Homestead's Modernization and Preservation

After retiring from the military, the Glasgows returned to El Paso and undertook significant renovations to modernize the home. They installed gas heating, electrical service, updated plumbing, and modernized the kitchen. These renovations also included plastering over Victorian wallpapers and removing the canvas ceilings, known as mantas. Despite these updates, the home retained much of its historical charm and character.

In 1976, the Magoffin Home was sold to the City and State, with Joseph's granddaughter, Octavia Magoffin Glasgow, retaining lifetime tenancy. She continued to live in the home until her passing in 1986. The home underwent restoration by historic preservationist Eugene George in 1977-1978, ensuring that its historical integrity was preserved for future generations.

Visiting the Magoffin Homestead

Today, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site is jointly owned by the City of El Paso and the State of Texas and has been maintained by the Texas Historical Commission since 2007. Visitors can explore the homestead and its beautifully preserved rooms, gaining insight into the lives of the Magoffin family and the history of El Paso.

The Casa Magoffin Companeros, a group dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Magoffin Home, hosts several annual events, including kids' camps, classes in the summer, and a Holiday Open House in December. These events offer a wonderful opportunity for the community to engage with the history of the home and enjoy its unique charm.

Tours of the homestead are available from Tuesday through Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last tour starting at 4 p.m. Tickets for the tour, along with unique gifts, can be purchased at the Visitor Center located across the street from the home at 1117 Magoffin Ave.

In conclusion, the Magoffin Homestead is not just a historic monument; it is a living testament to the pioneering spirit and cultural heritage of El Paso. Its walls echo the stories of the Magoffin family and the rich history of the region, making it an unmissable attraction for anyone visiting this vibrant city.