Anson Mills

In the heart of the historic center of El Paso stands an architectural gem from the early 20th century — the Anson Mills Building. This 12-story skyscraper, built in 1911, is recognized as one of the most important engineering monuments in the USA. At the time of its completion, it was not only the tallest in the city but also the second building in the entire country to feature a concrete frame.

Designed by the prominent architect Henry C. Trost, the building stands out for its unusual curved facade, which elegantly wraps around the street corner opposite San Jacinto Plaza. Its appearance clearly reflects the characteristics of the Chicago School, and decorative elements refer to the works of the legendary Louis Sullivan, making the structure a true work of art in concrete and terracotta.

Today, the Anson Mills Building is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. It doesn't just serve as a reminder of the region's golden age of development; it remains a living center of urban life: a popular restaurant is located on the ground floor, allowing guests to literally touch history.

For those planning to visit this historic site or book a table at the famous restaurant located inside, it is helpful to have current contact information on hand.

The main reason to visit the Anson Mills Building is to see the unique curved facade, which is considered a triumph of early concrete construction. Architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the elegant ornaments and cornices in the Chicago School style. It is a great spot for an architectural photoshoot, especially during the hours when the soft sunlight highlights the texture of the walls opposite San Jacinto Plaza.

Today, the building houses the Anson 11 restaurant, which offers two dining formats. On the first floor is a cozy bistro with a casual atmosphere, while the upper level features a more formal dining room for special occasions. Dining here is not just a meal, but an immersion into the atmosphere of El Paso's era of prosperity, with views of the busy downtown streets.

Additionally, the site is an important stop on pedestrian routes through downtown. You can include it in your tour of historic sites, exploring the legacy of the Trost & Trost firm, whose offices were once located within these very walls. A walk around the building will allow you to feel the rhythm of a modern city that carefully preserves its roots.

Finding the Anson Mills Building is easy, as it is located in the heart of El Paso at 303 N Oregon St. Its curved facade overlooks the popular San Jacinto Plaza, making the building an excellent landmark during downtown walks.

If you are using public transportation, the EP Transit buses, which stop in the immediate vicinity of the plaza, are your best option. For those arriving from El Paso International Airport (ELP), a taxi or ride through Uber/Lyft will take about 10–15 minutes and cost approximately $20–30.

For travelers arriving by car, city parking is available nearby, though finding a free spot on weekdays can be challenging. If you are staying at one of the downtown hotels, the building is within walking distance and fits perfectly into a walking tour of the historic districts.

The structure bears the name of Anson Mills — a prominent officer, engineer, and entrepreneur often referred to as the "Father of El Paso." It was Mills who, in 1859, created the first street plan for the city and gave the settlement its current name. The building, erected in 1910–1911, became the crown jewel of his development activities and a symbol of the region's rapid progress.

From an architectural standpoint, it was a true technological breakthrough for the turn of the century. The Anson Mills Building became the second skyscraper in the USA with a monolithic concrete frame. Due to a steel suppliers' strike, architect Henry C. Trost decided to use reinforced concrete, adding mica from local quarries to the mix. This not only provided strength but also gave the walls a subtle, noble shimmer.

Interestingly, the skyscraper was built on the site of the historic Ponce de León ranch, founded back in 1832. Thus, this location links different eras — from the first settlers to America's period of rapid industrialization. Until 1920, it housed the offices of the Trost & Trost architectural firm itself, which shaped the modern appearance of El Paso.

For a simple exterior inspection of the architectural details of the Anson Mills Building and a few commemorative photos against the backdrop of San Jacinto Plaza, you will need only 15–30 minutes. It is a convenient stop during a general walk through downtown.

If you decide to go inside and have lunch or dinner at the historic Anson 11 restaurant, you should set aside 1.5–2 hours for the visit. This will allow you to unhurriedly enjoy the interiors and quality cuisine in an atmosphere steeped in century-old history.

As an architectural site, the facade of the Anson Mills Building is available for viewing 24/7. You can admire its exterior finish and take photos at any time; however, the building looks most impressive in daylight or under evening lighting.

Since the interior houses offices and the Anson 11 restaurant, access to the internal spaces depends on their respective operating schedules. The restaurant is typically open for lunch and dinner, but the schedule may vary, so it is recommended to check the official website before your visit.

Downtown El Paso is a concentration of history and entertainment. Exploring the area surrounding the Anson Mills Building will allow you to deeply feel the atmosphere of a border city where American and Mexican cultures are closely intertwined.

Within a few minutes' drive or during an extended walk, you can find both quiet parks and modern activity centers. Below is a list of interesting locations nearby: