Chamizal National Memorial facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chamizal National Memorial |
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Visitor Center at Chamizal National Memorial
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 Chamizal National Memorial
Location in Texas
Chamizal National Memorial
Location in the United States
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| Location | Paisano Dr., El Paso, Texas, USA |
| Area | 54.90 acres (22.22 ha) |
| Established | February 4, 1974 |
| Visitors | 8,324 (in 2023) |
| Governing body | National Park Service |
| Website | Chamizal National Memorial |
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Chamizal National Memorial
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| Built | 1848 |
| NRHP reference No. | 74002069 |
| Added to NRHP | February 2, 1974 |
The Chamizal National Memorial is a special park in El Paso, Texas. It sits right on the border between the United States and Mexico. This memorial celebrates a time when two countries solved a big problem peacefully. It reminds everyone that talking things out is better than fighting.
Contents
What is Chamizal National Memorial?
This memorial is a place to learn about history and enjoy culture. It covers about 55 acres, which is like 40 football fields! The park has art galleries, a theater, and an outdoor stage called an amphitheater. You can also visit a museum inside the visitor center. This museum tells the story of the U.S.–Mexico border.
The Chamizal Dispute: A Border Mystery
The park honors how the Chamizal Dispute was solved. This was a border problem that lasted over 100 years! It happened because the Rio Grande river changed its path. The river forms the border between El Paso, Texas, and Ciudad Juárez, Mexico. When the river moved, people weren't sure which country owned certain land.
How the Dispute Was Solved
In 1963, the United States and Mexico signed an agreement. It was called the Chamizal Convention. This agreement decided how to share the land that the river had changed. Part of that land became the Chamizal National Memorial in the U.S. A similar park, called Parque Público Federal El Chamizal, was created on the Mexican side.
The International Boundary and Water Commission helped make this agreement. This group was created in 1889. Its job is to keep track of the border. They also help manage river water and prevent floods for both countries.
History of the Memorial
The idea for the Chamizal National Memorial started on June 30, 1966. It officially became a part of the National Park Service on February 4, 1974. On the same day, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes important historical sites in the U.S.
Visiting the Memorial
The park grounds are open every day from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. However, they are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
The visitor center and art galleries are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The main office is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Fees and Permits
You might need to pay a fee if you want to use the theater for an event. There are also fees for large groups (50 or more people) who want to use the picnic areas.
See also
In Spanish: Memorial nacional de El Chamizal para niños
