Ysleta Mission | El Paso

The Ysleta Mission is a historically significant site in El Paso, Texas, renowned for being the oldest continuously active parish in Texas. Officially named La Misión de Corpus Christi de San Antonio de la Ysleta del Sur, it has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and cultural life of the Tigua people, a Native American tribe from the region.

History and Foundation

The mission was established in 1682 by Spanish priests and the Tigua people, who had fled the Pueblo Revolt in New Mexico. The mission's establishment was part of Spain’s larger efforts to spread Catholicism in the region. The Tigua people constructed the original adobe church, and it quickly became a focal point for religious and cultural life. Despite several natural disasters over the centuries—such as floods, fires, and relocations—the mission has remained active and continues to serve as a parish for the Tigua people.

Architectural Features

The mission's architecture is a blend of Spanish Colonial Revival and Classical Revival styles, reflecting both European and Indigenous influences. Some key features include:

Simple Linear Facade: The exterior of the mission is relatively plain, in line with traditional Spanish colonial architecture.

Interior Motifs: Inside, the church incorporates symbols of both Catholic and Native American culture. For example, motifs of rain clouds, corn stalks, and baskets can be found, representing the Tigua's agricultural traditions.

Bell Tower: The mission is known for its distinctive silver-domed bell tower, which was added in 1897 and remains an iconic feature of the structure.

The mission was rebuilt after several floods and fires, with the current building completed in 1908.

Cultural Significance

The Ysleta Mission continues to serve as a place of worship and a symbol of the Tigua people’s resilience. It is the spiritual heart of the Ysleta del Sur Pueblo, the only federally recognized Native American tribe in Texas. The Tigua people continue to celebrate their traditions through rituals and events at the mission. One of the most significant annual celebrations is the Feast Day of St. Anthony of Padua on June 13, which includes mass and traditional dances.

The mission also plays a role in preserving the Tigua people's language, customs, and spiritual practices. For many years, it has been a center for community gatherings, and its role extends far beyond religious services.

Role in the Borderlands

The Ysleta Mission holds a special place in the history of the U.S.-Mexico border region. It was originally located south of the Rio Grande, but after a flood in 1829, the Rio Grande changed its course, and the mission ended up on the north side, placing it within the boundaries of the Republic of Texas. This event exemplifies the dynamic and often changing nature of the region's geography and political landscape.

The mission's location in El Paso, near the Mexico border, also underscores its significance in the binational and multicultural heritage of the region. The Tigua people, though living on the U.S. side, maintain strong cultural and familial ties to Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, making the mission a bridge between two nations and cultures.

Visiting the Ysleta Mission

Visitors can explore the mission to learn about its history and architecture. The mission is still a functioning parish, and people can attend services in both English and Spanish. The Ysleta Mission Festival, held annually in July, celebrates the culture and traditions of the Tigua people, with music, food, and dances.

Address: 131 S. Zaragoza Rd., El Paso, TX 79907

Hours: Open daily; services are held regularly.

Phone: (915) 859-9848

The mission is also home to a gift shop where visitors can purchase cultural artifacts, including Native American pottery, handcrafted jewelry, and religious items.

Legacy and Preservation

The Ysleta Mission is more than just a historical site—it is an active symbol of the Tigua people’s enduring legacy and the ongoing preservation of their traditions. As one of the oldest missions in the United States, it remains a testament to the resilience of the Indigenous peoples of the American Southwest and their ability to adapt and thrive through centuries of change.

Today, the mission continues to serve not only as a religious site but also as a cultural hub for the Tigua people, making it an essential destination for those interested in learning about the history, culture, and spiritual life of the borderlands.