Jefferson Morgenthaler’s “The River Has Never Divided Us: A Border History of La Junta de los Rios” stands out as a significant contribution to our understanding of the Big Bend borderlands, an area that embodies the complex interplay between geography, culture, and history. This meticulously researched book takes readers on a journey through the life of La Junta de los Rios, an ancient settlement at the meeting point of the Rio Grande and Rio Conchos, offering a vivid portrayal of a region that has been continuously inhabited longer than many of the borders dividing nations today.
Morgenthaler’s narrative weaves together the multifaceted stories of individuals and communities that have called this area home, from its earliest inhabitants to the present day. By chronicling events from the mid-19th century formation of the Mexico-Texas border to the 1997 incident involving U.S. Marines and teenager Esquiel Hernandez in El Polvo, Texas, the book illuminates the enduring impact of national borders on communities with deep-rooted connections to the land.
What sets “The River Has Never Divided Us” apart is its focus on the human element, showcasing how people from diverse backgrounds have navigated the challenges and opportunities presented by living in a borderland. Morgenthaler introduces readers to a cast of characters that includes natives, soldiers, rebels, and many others, each adding depth to the historical tapestry of La Junta de los Rios. These narratives underscore the book’s central thesis: despite the imposition of political boundaries, the river at the heart of this region has never truly divided its people.
Recommended by Big Bend Ranch Superintendent Laura Jennings, who discovered the book while serving as the Interpretive Ranger at Fort Leaton, Morgenthaler’s work is praised for its comprehensive exploration of the region’s history. This includes a detailed examination of past peoples, border conflicts, crimes, and celebrations, providing an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the unique cultural heritage of the Big Bend borderlands.
“The River Has Never Divided Us” does more than recount the history of a geographical location; it invites readers to reconsider the notion of borders themselves. Through the stories of those who have lived along the Rio Grande and Rio Conchos, Morgenthaler challenges the artificial divisions that separate us, highlighting the shared experiences and resilience of communities that have thrived in the face of adversity.
For those captivated by the rich history and vibrant culture of border regions, Jefferson Morgenthaler’s “The River Has Never Divided Us” offers a compelling and insightful perspective on the ties that bind the people of the Big Bend borderlands. It is a testament to the power of place and the unbreakable connections that transcend the lines drawn on maps.
