Bosque Redondo Memorial Museum, Fort Sumner State Monument, 1862–1869
Historical marker location:
Billy the Kid Road, south from US 60/84, Fort Sumner, New Mexico
( Bosque Redondo Memorial Museum parking lot)
The U.S. Army established Fort Sumner in 1862 as a supply and control point for the Bosque Redondo Indian Reservation. About 10,000 Navajo were forced to march hundreds of miles from the Four-Corners Region. The Navajo call this tragic journey the Long Walk. Some 500 Apaches from southern New Mexico were also brought here. Approximately 3,000 Native Americans died at the fort. The ill-conceived reservation was closed in 1868, and the Navajos and Apaches returned to their homes. The fort was abandoned in 1869
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During World War II, New Mexico was the site of several top-secret military installations, including the Los Alamos National Laboratory, where the atomic bomb was developed. The laboratory is still one of the largest employers in the state and conducts research in fields such as nuclear energy and national security.
About De Baca County
De Baca County Timeline
De Baca County is located in the state of New Mexico in the United States. It was named after Ezequiel C. de Baca, New Mexico's first elected Hispanic governor. The county was officially established in 1917, becoming one of the last counties to be formed in the state. Before its establishment, the area was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Jumano and Comanche peoples.
The county has a rich agricultural history. In the late 19th century, settlers began to establish homesteads and farms in the area. Water was a valuable resource, and farmers relied on irrigation from the Pecos River to support their crops. The construction of the Santa Fe Railroad in the early 20th century brought further development and opportunities for trade and transportation.
During the early years, De Baca County faced challenges brought by drought, which had a significant impact on the agricultural industry. However, the county's resilient residents adapted and found new ways to sustain their livelihoods. Cattle ranching became an important industry, and even today, ranching plays a vital role in the county's economy.
In recent years, De Baca County has faced declining population numbers, similar to many rural areas in the United States. However, efforts have been made to promote tourism and attract visitors to the area's natural attractions, such as Conchas Lake State Park. The county continues to honor its agricultural heritage and celebrates its history through annual events and festivals, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of its residents.
The county has a rich agricultural history. In the late 19th century, settlers began to establish homesteads and farms in the area. Water was a valuable resource, and farmers relied on irrigation from the Pecos River to support their crops. The construction of the Santa Fe Railroad in the early 20th century brought further development and opportunities for trade and transportation.
During the early years, De Baca County faced challenges brought by drought, which had a significant impact on the agricultural industry. However, the county's resilient residents adapted and found new ways to sustain their livelihoods. Cattle ranching became an important industry, and even today, ranching plays a vital role in the county's economy.
In recent years, De Baca County has faced declining population numbers, similar to many rural areas in the United States. However, efforts have been made to promote tourism and attract visitors to the area's natural attractions, such as Conchas Lake State Park. The county continues to honor its agricultural heritage and celebrates its history through annual events and festivals, showcasing the rich culture and traditions of its residents.
De Baca County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of De Baca County, New Mexico.
- 1917 - De Baca County is established on February 28th, when a section of Guadalupe County is divided into three separate counties, including De Baca.
- 1930s - During the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl affects De Baca County, leading to considerable economic hardships for its residents.
- 1940s - World War II brings about changes in De Baca County, with many young men joining the military, while others support the war effort on the homefront.
- 1950s - The economy of De Baca County begins to diversify, with the growth of agricultural and oil industries.
- 1970s - The county experiences a decline in population as farming becomes more mechanized, leading to fewer job opportunities.
- 1990s - De Baca County establishes the Kiwanis Park, providing recreational facilities for locals and visitors.
- 2010s - The economy of De Baca County continues to rely on agriculture, oil and gas production, as well as tourism.