El Paso Saddleablanket closes retail after 45 Years

The El Paso Saddleblanket Company, a local landmark, closed its retail branch after more than 45 years. Dozens came from across the area to the store’s final public opening, an auction with over 500 lots that would clear out the store.

“It’s bittersweet, but we’re not going out of business, just closing to the public our brick and mortar store,” said Luc Hensen, El Paso Saddleblanket Company president.

The decision to close was made this spring. Although the doors are now closed to the public, the Saddleblanket will still run a wholesale business.

“I’ve always been a fan of rustic antique furniture, I always enjoy just coming here and just checking it out. It’s really rare to find places that sell this kind of furniture. I really enjoy the craftsmanship that goes into it,” said Noah Earle, a shopper that came all the way from Las Cruces.

The decades-old company meant much to some residents, one woman going as far as to say the store closing would be a loss for the city.

“I hope we were a fun place,” said Hensen.

The Saddleblanket will still sell products to regular customers through their website, elpasosaddleblanket.com