Deep inside downtown El Paso, there is a tower that stands out above the city. Obviously historic and impressive from a distance, the building is a must visit when in El Paso. Today, I had the opportunity to mark this off my list of places to see.
The Union Depot “was designed by architect Daniel Burnham, who also designed Washington D.C. Union Station. It was built between 1905 and 1906 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.” (Wikipedia) The tower indefinitely catches my eye every time I pass by. It is important to note that “it is said that Pancho Villa used the bell tower of Union Depot as a lookout during an attack on Juárez during the Mexican Revolution.” (Union Depot, EPCC Library) I enjoy seeing old architecture, especially when they are as preserved as this. This building, in fact, is used by area colleges to teach architecture.
Outside the building, there are stark reminders of the days when thousands walk through its doors.
And inside is a sight to see as well. With the marble flooring and wall covering. To the wooden fixtures, stairways, and pillars. While some were not able to be photographed, it all brings the visitor back to a time in history.
While Amtrak maintains a presence and operates from this station, the El Paso Transit Authority uses the building as a bus depot as well. It is a beautiful historic building. I am grateful that I had a chance to quickly visit and would encourage everyone to see this treasure. Maybe one day, it would be nice to even board a train from there.