Did Texas steal El Paso from New Mexico? Writer Blake Gumprecht delves into this historical debate

Did Texas steal El Paso from New Mexico? Writer Blake Gumprecht delves into this historical debate

Author: Santa Fe New Mexican March 24, 2026 Duration: 38:39

Did Texas steal El Paso from New Mexico? Depending on who you ask, the answer is likely straightforward. However, for Blake Gumprecht, an Albuquerque-based writer and longtime geographer who once lived and worked in the borderlands, the answer is a matter of delving into historical records to find the facts.  

On the latest podcast episode of “Conversations Different,” host Inez Russell Gomez talks with Gumprecht about his efforts to find out if Texas did in fact steal El Paso from New Mexico. The two discuss Gumprecht’s findings on this unusual topic and how he used them to write an article published in the Western Historical Quarterly.  

The premise of the article suggests El Paso may not have originally belonged to Texas when it was incorporated into the state because of geographical changes brought by westward expansion. A lack of credible sourcing to corroborate any claims regarding incorporation, especially those of Robert S. Neighbors, is also raised in the article.  

Throughout the episode, Inez and Gumprecht also reflect on the political and cultural significances El Paso has had in Texas and how different it would be today had the Sun City been a part of the Land of Enchantment.  

Check out more of Gumprecht’s work by visiting his website blakegumprecht.wordpress.com 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


There's a particular rhythm and texture to life in Northern New Mexico, a blend of history, art, and complex contemporary conversations that defines the region. Conversations Different with Inez Russell Gomez captures that essence through thoughtful dialogue. Presented by the Santa Fe New Mexican, this podcast moves beyond headlines, guided by host Inez Russell Gomez, whose decades as Opinion Page Editor inform her nuanced approach. Each episode is built around a genuine exchange with the local and regional personalities who are actively shaping the cultural and societal landscape. You'll hear from artists, community leaders, writers, and thinkers, all engaged in talks that are designed to be more provocative than promotional. The discussions delve into the ideas, challenges, and stories that matter here, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the forces at play in America's oldest capital city and the surrounding areas. It’s a series for anyone curious about the real conversations happening just beneath the surface. Tune in for a podcast that prioritizes substance and perspective, reflecting the unique character of its setting through every candid interview.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

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