Welcome to the Smeltertown Historical Site in El Paso, Texas, a place steeped in industrial history and community tales. Established in the late 19th century, Smeltertown housed the workers of the American Smelting and Refining Corporation (ASARCO) smelter and their families. This community grew alongside the rapid expansion of the mining industry in the American Southwest.
ASARCO was founded in 1881 by a young mining engineer named Robert Safford Towne, and it quickly became a pivotal part of El Paso’s economic landscape. By 1899, ASARCO had established its first copper smelter in the area, turning El Paso into a significant rail stop for smelting ores from the surrounding regions.
Smeltertown, located between El Paso and the borders of Mexico and New Mexico, was more than just a residential area. It was a vibrant community, albeit one that bore the brunt of industrial pollution from the smelting processes. The community was served by the San Jose Church and the Jones School, which were central to its social and educational fabric.
The town’s residents, predominantly Mexican and Mexican American workers, faced challenging working conditions and low wages. Despite this, they fostered a strong sense of community and resilience. Their struggles and stories were poignantly captured by historian Monica Perales, whose work documented the legacy and memories of Smeltertown.
Over time, as industrial technology evolved and environmental regulations tightened, the ASARCO smelter faced increased scrutiny for its environmental impact. By the late 20th century, the smelter closed, and Smeltertown was largely abandoned, leaving behind a small neighborhood known today as the La Calavera Historical Neighborhood.
Smeltertown’s story is a testament to the intersections of labor, industry, and community on the U.S.-Mexico border. As you explore this site, reflect on the lives of those who lived and worked here, their contributions to the industrial age, and the enduring spirit of a community that once thrived in the shadow of the smokestacks.
