Montgomery Building

The Montgomery Building stands as a testament to the rich history and architectural evolution of El Paso, Texas. Nestled in the heart of downtown El Paso, this structure is not just a building but a living relic of the city's transformation from a dusty adobe village to a bustling commercial hub. As the oldest existing business building in El Paso, the Montgomery Building offers a unique glimpse into the past and a fascinating story of resilience and adaptation.

The Birth of a Landmark

Constructed in 1882 by William J. Montgomery, the Montgomery Building emerged during a period of significant change for El Paso. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in 1881 marked the beginning of a new era, transforming the city into a thriving commercial center. Montgomery seized this opportunity, building his structure on a vacant lot between two existing buildings. Utilizing the existing walls of these neighboring structures, he constructed only a roof, floor, front wall, and back wall, effectively creating two new addresses: 216 and 218 El Paso Street.

The building's design was typical of western frontier architecture of the late 19th century, featuring a false front to give the impression of a taller, more imposing structure. This architectural style was popular at the time, as it made the burgeoning western towns look more like their eastern counterparts. The Montgomery Building originally housed a drug store and a book store, serving the needs of a rapidly growing population.

Architectural Significance

The Montgomery Building is a fine example of the one-part commercial building style that was prevalent during the railroad boom of the late 19th century. Its simple box shape, decorated wood façade, and bracketed cornice reflect the Italianate style that was popular at the time. The false front, a common feature in western architecture, added to the building's visual impact, making it appear larger and more significant than it actually was.

The use of timber, brought in by the railroad from areas like Cloudcroft, along with pressed tin, cast iron, glass, and hardware, helped to create a façade that was both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The wooden sidewalk, roof, and hitching posts for horses in front of the building were typical features of the time, adding to the building's frontier charm.

A Journey Through Time

Over the years, the Montgomery Building has undergone numerous renovations, both inside and out. It has housed a variety of businesses, including drugstores, restaurants, shoemakers, and clothing stores. Today, it is home to Dave’s A Pawn Shop and a clothing store, continuing its legacy as a center of commerce.

With the advent of the automobile and the subsequent paving of streets, the wooden sidewalks, posts, and roofs were removed, replaced by conventional sidewalks. Despite these changes, the building's wooden façade remains, albeit partially obscured by modern signage. The cornice, however, is still clearly visible, a nod to the building's historic past.

Continuing Legacy

Situated on what was once one of the main commercial thoroughfares of El Paso, the Montgomery Building remains a symbol of the city's rich frontier heritage. It is one of the few remaining structures from the original commercial district of old El Paso, standing as a proud reminder of the city's transformation over the past century.

The addresses 216 and 218 S. El Paso Street have been in continuous use for over 120 years, making the Montgomery Building the oldest surviving commercial structure in El Paso. Its enduring presence is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the city and its people.

Visiting the Montgomery Building

For those visiting El Paso, a trip to the Montgomery Building offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a piece of the city's history. As you walk along El Paso Street, imagine the bustling activity of the late 19th century, with horse-drawn carriages, wooden sidewalks, and the sounds of commerce filling the air.

Take a moment to appreciate the building's architectural features, from the false front and bracketed cornice to the wooden façade that has withstood the test of time. Inside, explore the current businesses and consider the many different enterprises that have occupied this space over the years, each contributing to the building's rich history.

In conclusion, the Montgomery Building is more than just a historic structure; it is a living testament to the evolution of El Paso. Its walls hold the stories of a city that has grown and changed, yet remains deeply connected to its past. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Montgomery Building is a must-visit destination that offers a fascinating glimpse into the heart of El Paso's heritage.