Opening Night of Tracks Across the Desert Exhibit at EPMH
Opening Night of Tracks Across the Desert Exhibit at EPMH
The railroad boom of the 19th century ushered in a new and tranformative era for transportation, technology, and economy in America—one that swept the Paso del Norte region along with it. As the railroad industry flourished, El Paso began cultivating a unique economy and culture, one heavily influenced by its location along the border and the route between four major cities (Mexico City, Santa Fe, Los Angeles, and San Antonio). True to its name, El Paso became a gateway for the Southern half of the United States. In Tracks Across the Desert, we explore the people, groups, and railroad giants that shaped El Paso into the city it is today. This exhibit is generously funded by Union Pacific.
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During the U.S.-Mexico War of 1846-1848, U.S. federal officials realized the importance of the Pass of the North for a transcontinental railway line without winter storm problems. The Gadsden Purchase of 1853 transferred land from Mexico to make this all-weather route possible. Financial issues and the political strife leading to the Civil War delayed construction, and in 1869, the first transcontinental line was completed hundreds of miles to the north. In May 1881, the Southern Pacific Railroad(SP) arrived at the Pass of the North from the west, and a few weeks later the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad came from the north. In December, 1881 the Texas and Pacific Railroad connected with the SP in nearby Sierra Blanca TX creating the nation's second transcontinental railway. Source: Pamphlet Historic Railroad Streetcar Landmarks at the Pas of the North