Memorial Park

Memorial Park in El Paso, Texas is a historic urban park spanning approximately 32 acres. Originally established in 1920 as Veterans Memorial Park, it has served the community for over a century. The park is located in the Manhattan Heights neighborhood, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1980.

The park's terrain is notably hilly, a remnant of its past as the site of a former copper smelter that operated from 1899 to 1908. This unique topography provides visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding city and the Franklin Mountains. The park's design incorporates both formal and informal landscaping, featuring mature trees and open lawn spaces.

Memorial Park has undergone several transformations throughout its history. In the 1920s and early 1930s, the park saw significant improvements including grading, plantings, and the addition of various recreational facilities. The park's development was influenced by renowned landscape architect George E. Kessler, who contributed to the 1925 City Plan for El Paso.

The park includes several historic features, such as a stone arch bridge dating back to 1922 and various masonry structures from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era. These elements, along with more modern additions, contribute to the park's unique character and historical significance.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and enhance Memorial Park. The city has undertaken master planning processes to guide future improvements while respecting the park's historic integrity. These plans aim to balance community needs with the preservation of the park's important features, ensuring it continues to serve El Paso residents for generations to come.