Helene Haack Allen (1891–1978)
Historical marker location:Helene was a pioneer businesswoman, moving to Fort Sumner at 21. She married a homesteader and they ran diverse businesses, including theaters and a mortuary. She established the first Billy the Kid museum on the site of the Old Fort and won legal battles to keep him interred there. Late in life, she donated land, which became Fort Sumner State Monument and Bosque Redondo Memorial Museum
The Historic Women Marker Initiative of 2007 captured the public’s imagination. It has received international attention for its ambitious goal of telling women’s history in New Mexico on some of the state’s 650 Official Scenic Historic Markers. Before 2007, perhaps three markers mentioned women at all.
The lives of the only known female Buffalo solider, one of the world’s most famous artists, and unsung heroes like Sally Rooke who gave her life at her switchboard warning Folsom’s citizens of a wall of water approaching their town are honored on 75 women’s history markers.
The first phase of the Initiative concluded in 2010. Ten more markers were installed in 2015 and an additional 25 are expected to bring their numbers to an even 100 in the coming years. The program is a partnership of the New Mexico Women’s Forum, HPD, CPRC, New Mexico Department of Transportation, and the public. The 2006 legislature made the initial 65 historic markers possible.
Like all state historic markers, the women’s history markers are designed in the Park Service Rustic style adopted when the program began in 1935. What’s different is their perspective of New Mexico history.
In 1945, the world's first atomic bomb was tested at the Trinity Site in New Mexico. The test was part of the Manhattan Project, a secret government program to develop nuclear weapons during World War II.
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.