Curry County, New Mexico

Curry County is a county located in the eastern region of the state of New Mexico, USA. The area that is now Curry County was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Apache, and Navajo. European settlers began to arrive in the mid-1800s, and the region saw an influx of ranchers and farmers.

In 1902, Curry County was officially established, named after the territorial governor, George Curry. The county seat was initially located in nearby Pleasant Hill before being moved to its present location in Clovis in 1909. The newly formed county quickly became known for its agricultural activities, particularly wheat farming and cattle ranching.

One notable event in the history of Curry County occurred in 1931 with the establishment of Cannon Air Force Base. The base, initially called Army Air Base, was created as a result of the growing military presence in the country and played an important role during World War II and the subsequent years. Cannon Air Force Base continues to be an essential part of the county's economy and is a major employer in the region.

In recent decades, Curry County has seen significant growth and development. The county has diversified its economy, with industries such as healthcare, retail, and manufacturing contributing to its prosperity. Additionally, the county has become a regional hub for education, with several colleges and universities offering a range of programs.

Overall, Curry County has a rich history that encompasses Native American settlements, pioneer days, military presence, and economic diversification, all of which have shaped the county into what it is today.
Brief timeline of the history of Curry County, New Mexico:

  • 1876: Curry County is officially established by the New Mexico Territorial Legislature.
  • 1907: Clovis is incorporated as the county seat of Curry County.
  • 1928: The discovery of oil in Curry County leads to an economic boom.
  • 1942: The U.S. Army establishes Cannon Air Force Base in Curry County.
  • 1967: The Curry County Fair is first held, becoming an annual tradition.
  • 1991: The National Parks Service designates the Clovis site as a National Historic Landmark.
  • 2019: Curry County celebrates its 143rd anniversary.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Curry County, New Mexico.