Memorial Park

A group of New York and El Paso investors formed the Federal Copper Company in 1899. By 1901 a smelter was in operation at this site, processing ore from Arizona and Mexico. Due to declining copper prices and competition from area companies, the firm was unsuccessful and ceased to exist by 1908.

Part of the property was later developed by Leo C. Dessar, former president of Federal Copper Company, as a residential subdivision called Manhattan Heights. In 1912 Dessar sold the real estate development to El Paso dentist Dr. James Brady, the owner of a local construction firm. One year later adjoining land, also part of the original smelter site, was developed by O. C. and J. F. Coles as Castle Heights subdivision.

During the economic depression of the 1930s, efforts were begun by the Works Progress Administration to develop public gardens in Memorial Park. The resulting hilltop gardens were completed with the help of the Chamber of Commerce, the city parks department, and the El Paso garden clubs.

The houses in the Memorial Park area, most built by 1930, reflect a variety of architectural styles. The exclusive neighborhood has been the home of many prominent El Paso business and professional leaders. (1981)

(1981).