At Chuco Relic, our logo isn’t just a design; it’s a symbol that connects to El Paso’s rich history. One part of that logo often raises eyebrows: the alligator. Why would an alligator be a symbol of pride in a city located in the middle of the desert? The answer lies in the heart of El Paso’s downtown, where the story of these unexpected creatures begins.
Back in the 1880s, alligators became an unusual but beloved attraction in San Jacinto Plaza, right in the heart of El Paso. A central pond in the plaza became home to these fascinating reptiles, creating a gathering point that drew visitors from near and far. Families, children, and tourists would gather around the pond, fascinated by the sight of alligators in the center of their desert city. The alligators quickly became a symbol of local charm and curiosity, giving San Jacinto Plaza a character that was truly unique.
For nearly a century, the alligators were a defining part of the plaza and El Paso culture. However, as time passed, there were growing concerns for the animals' welfare. In 1974, the alligators were removed from the plaza for humane reasons, marking the end of an era. Despite their physical absence, the legacy of these creatures remained. The memory of the alligators at San Jacinto Plaza continued to be a point of nostalgia and a unique aspect of El Paso’s history.
At Chuco Relic, we honor this legacy by featuring alligators in our logo. They remind us of El Paso’s unique spirit—one that celebrates tradition and community, with a dash of the unexpected. The alligators aren’t just a memory; they represent a time when the city’s gathering place was a spot of wonder, bringing people together to marvel at the extraordinary right in their backyard. Today, the statue in San Jacinto Plaza commemorates that history, reminding us of a time when El Paso was home to a truly unusual community of desert alligators.
Next time you see our alligator logo, you’ll know it’s more than just an image; it’s a nod to El Paso’s vibrant history and one of its most beloved landmarks. At Chuco Relic, we’re proud to keep that story alive, one alligator at a time.
