Ciudad Juarez, Mexico History
Site of Benito Juárez's Office

Avenida 16 de Septiembre Poniente (west)
From 1865 to 1866, Mexican president and patriot Benito Juarez was forced to move from one place to another while fleeing the occupying French forces who were trying to install Maximilian of Habsberg as Emperor of Mexico.  Juarez wound up in Paso del Norte and at this location he maintained his office.  Later he returned to Mexico City to occupy the National Palace upon the defeat of the French troops and fall of the Empire. 

The Juarenses of that era were rewarding for the services they performed for the nation, and the city subsequently took the name of this Mexican hero.  The city's coat of arms bears the motto "Custodian of the Republic." 

A small bust and plaque commemorate the site of his office that served as the seat of government in that troubled time. At this site also stood the post office building, which was destroyed during the Mexican Revolution in the fierce battle of Juarez on May 8, 1911.  Many buildings were badly damaged and destroyed during the Mexican Revolution and with them their silent testimony to the history of the city.