Trailside Boundary Monument

This historic international boundary monument is located along the walking trail around the park.

NPS

Quick Facts

Location:

Along walking trail in the northwest corner of Chamizal National Memorial grounds

Significance:

Historic object

Amenities

4 listed

Benches/Seating, Cellular Signal, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Wheelchair Accessible

This historic international boundary monument was one of nineteen installed around Cordova Island between 1907 and 1935. It was originally designated as monument number nine and located further east along the fence to identify the international boundary. After removal, it was stored at the LBJ Presidential Library and later given to Chamizal National Memorial. A nearby wayside exhibit provides more context for this boundary monument.

What does it say?

The boundary monument has two plaques on each side, with text in Spanish facing toward historic Cordova Island (where the park is located) and English facing the opposite direction. 

Boundary of the United States. Treaty of 1848. Re-established by treaties of 1884-1889. The destruction or displacement of this monument is a misdemeanor punishable by the United States or Mexico.

In addition to the different languages, there is one other difference between each side of the boundary monument. Can you spot it?