San Jacinto Plaza

Nestled in the heart of Downtown El Paso, Texas, San Jacinto Plaza is a historic gem that has been a central gathering place for over a century. This vibrant park, located at the corner of Oregon and Mills, is a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a place to relax, San Jacinto Plaza offers something for everyone.

The Origins of San Jacinto Plaza

The story of San Jacinto Plaza begins in the early 19th century when the land was part of Juan Maria Ponce de Leon's ranch. In 1881, the city of El Paso acquired the property from William T. Smith, who had bought it from the heirs of Ponce de Leon. Initially, the area was a dry, sandy patch filled with mesquite trees, but it was soon transformed into a beautiful urban oasis.

In 1903, the El Paso City Council officially named the park in honor of the Battle of San Jacinto, a pivotal event in Texas' fight for independence. J. Fisher Satterthwaite, the Parks and Streets Commissioner, was tasked with beautifying the park. By 1883, the park boasted a walled pond, a charming gazebo, and 75 Chinese Elm trees. The most intriguing addition, however, was the introduction of three alligators into the pond, which quickly became the park's main attraction.

The Alligator Legacy

The alligators of San Jacinto Plaza became a beloved symbol of El Paso's culture. At one point, the pond was home to as many as seven of these fascinating reptiles. Visitors would gather around the pond to watch the alligators, making it a popular spot for relaxation and socialization. The alligators even inspired local pranks and contests, such as the time when an alligator named Oscar was placed in a professor's office at Texas Western College.

Despite their popularity, the alligators faced numerous challenges, including vandalism and mistreatment. By 1965, the remaining alligators were relocated to the El Paso Zoo for their safety. Although the pond was eventually removed, the memory of the alligators lives on through a striking fiberglass sculpture by local artist Luis Jiménez, which stands as a tribute to these iconic creatures.

Distinctive Features and Cultural Significance

San Jacinto Plaza has always been more than just a park; it has been a cultural and social hub for the people of El Paso. In the 1950s, the park featured a statue known as The Boy with the Leaking Boot, which was surrounded by a moat and guarded by the alligators. Today, this statue resides in the El Paso Museum of History.

The plaza has also been a focal point for religious and community events. In August 1952, Baptist ministers held revivals in the park, drawing hundreds of attendees. Since 1954, the lighting of the city Christmas tree in San Jacinto Plaza has marked the official start of the holiday season in El Paso, a tradition that continues to this day.

Throughout its history, San Jacinto Plaza has served as a transportation terminal. In the early 20th century, horse-drawn carriages and trolleys lined up around the park. By the 1950s, it had become a major boarding site for city buses and a pick-up point for taxicabs, cementing its role as a vital part of the city's infrastructure.

Modern-Day San Jacinto Plaza

Today, San Jacinto Plaza remains a vibrant and bustling part of downtown El Paso. Despite facing challenges such as vandalism and the presence of transients, the city has made significant efforts to refurbish and revitalize the park. In 2003, the entire park was cleared, cleaned, and rebuilt, and a major renovation project was completed in 2016.

The recent $5.3 million renovation, funded by quality of life bonds and the Tax Increment Reinvestment Zone Fund, has transformed San Jacinto Plaza into a modern urban oasis. The renovation included the addition of a full-service café, a huacha court, a reflecting pool, and a splash pad. New sidewalks, gutters, benches, landscaping, and irrigation systems were also installed, making the park more accessible and enjoyable for visitors.

Visiting San Jacinto Plaza

A visit to San Jacinto Plaza offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. As you stroll through the park, you can admire the stunning sculpture of the alligators, relax on one of the many benches, or enjoy a meal at the café. The park's lush greenery and well-maintained paths provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown El Paso.

Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the city, San Jacinto Plaza is a must-see destination. Its rich history, cultural significance, and modern amenities make it a perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon or a lively community event. So come and experience the charm and beauty of San Jacinto Plaza, and discover why it has been the heart of El Paso for over a century.