Museum of the Revolution in the Borderlands
Northwest Mexico Region
The Museum of the Revolution in the Borderlands, located in Ciudad Juárez, Mexico, is dedicated to the history of the Mexican Revolution and the city's crucial role in this transformative period. Housed in the former Ciudad Juárez Customs House built between 1885 and 1888, the building itself is a historical artifact featuring a unique 19th-century hybrid architectural style with French influences. The museum's exhibits are organized into nine thematic rooms that explore topics such as Mexican nationalism on the border, the rise of the Liberal Mexican Party, the triumph of Maderism, Pancho Villa's role, and the border as a stage for revolutionary events. The building hosted significant events including the 1909 meeting between Presidents Porfirio Díaz and William Howard Taft, served as Francisco I. Madero's provisional presidency in 1911, and was later used by revolutionary generals like Pancho Villa and Venustiano Carranza. After restoration efforts in the late 20th century, the museum was reestablished in 2011 to commemorate the centennial of the Revolution, offering visitors a deep cultural and historical experience through artifacts, documents, and immersive displays. Its location adjacent to Plaza Misión de Guadalupe makes it a prominent landmark in the border region.
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Tip: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more contemplative experience. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during special exhibitions or centennial commemorations. Discounts are often available for students, seniors, and groups. The museum offers virtual tours through the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) website, enabling remote exploration of its exhibits.
Interesting facts
- •The building hosted the historic 1909 meeting between Mexican President Porfirio Díaz and U.S. President William Howard Taft.
- •Francisco I. Madero used the building as his provisional presidency after the capture of Ciudad Juárez in 1911.
- •The museum's exhibits are organized into nine thematic rooms covering diverse aspects of the Revolution and border history.
- •The Customs House was designed by American architect George E. King and built by engineer Manuel Garfias.
- •The central courtyard was transformed with French-imported embossed sheet metal roofing and Austrian glass chandeliers for the 1909 Díaz-Taft meeting.
- •The museum includes a virtual tour available through Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).
History
The building that houses the Museum of the Revolution in the Borderlands was originally constructed as the Ciudad Juárez Customs House between 1885 and 1888, inaugurated in 1889.
It played a critical role during the Mexican Revolution, hosting key events such as the 1909 meeting between Presidents Porfirio Díaz and William Howard Taft and serving as the provisional presidency for Francisco I.
Madero in 1911.
The building was later used by revolutionary leaders including Pancho Villa and Venustiano Carranza.
After years of neglect, it was transferred to the state government in 1975 and restored to become a museum by 1990.
In 2011, the museum was reconceptualized and renamed to reflect its focus on the Revolution's impact on the border region, coinciding with the centennial celebrations.
Place Guide
Sala 1: The Nationalist Sentiment on the Border
This room explores the rise of Mexican nationalism in the border region, highlighting social and political movements that shaped revolutionary fervor.
Sala 2: The Organizing Board of the Mexican Liberal Party and the Transition to Anarchism
Exhibits covering the political evolution of revolutionary groups, particularly the Mexican Liberal Party's role and its ideological shifts.
Sala 3: The Triumph of Maderism1910-1911
This room documents Francisco I. Madero's rise and the initial successes of the revolutionary movement against Porfirio Díaz.
Sala 4: The Radicalization of the Struggle1912-1915
Focuses on the intensification of revolutionary conflicts and the fragmentation of factions during the war.
Sala 5: Pancho Villa1910-1920
Dedicated to the life and military campaigns of Pancho Villa, one of the most iconic revolutionary generals.
Sala 6: The Revolution of the Gaze
Explores how the Revolution was perceived and represented in art, photography, and media.
Sala 7: The Border as a Stage
Examines the strategic and symbolic importance of the border region during the Revolution.
Sala 8: Imaginaries
Focuses on the myths, narratives, and cultural memories surrounding the Revolution.
Sala 9: The Customs House1885-1889
Details the history and architecture of the building itself, highlighting its role during the Revolution.
Contact
Phone: 656 612 2964
