Historical Markers in
Otero County, New Mexico

Alamogordo Apache Battleground Blazer’s Mill Calvin Boles / Yucca Records Cloud-Climbing Railroad Disappearance of Albert J. Fountain and his son Henry Dog Canyon (Cañon del Perro) Fort Tularosa Holloman Air Force Base John Prather "Mule King" La Luz Lozen, Little Sister, “A Shield to Her People” (ca. 1840–1889) Mary White (1894–1988) Mescalero Apache Reservation Mexican Canyon Trestle Miss Mac Pioneer Woman (1870–1956) New Mexico Commission for the Blind Orientation Center New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired New Mexico School for the Visually Handicapped Round Mountain Ruidoso Sierra Blanca St. Joseph’s Mission Three Rivers Three Rivers Petroglyphs Tularosa Tularosa Valley
The first European to visit what is now New Mexico was likely Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, a Spanish explorer who traveled through the region in the early 16th century. However, it was not until the arrival of Juan de Oñate in 1598 that the Spanish established a permanent settlement in the area.
New Mexico random facts
Otero County, located in the southern part of New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history that dates back thousands of years. Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to Native American tribes, including the Mescalero Apache, Comanche, and Plains Apache. They relied on hunting, gathering, and trading in the region's abundant natural resources.

During the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in Otero County, searching for gold and establishing missions. They encountered resistance from the native tribes, leading to conflicts and ultimately the colonization of the region. The Spanish influence can still be seen in the local culture and architecture today.

In the 19th century, Otero County played a significant role in the westward expansion of the United States. The county became an important stop along the historic Santa Fe Trail, which facilitated trade between the United States and Mexico. The military also established a presence in the area to protect settlers from Native American attacks.

The late 1800s brought the development of the railroad, which further contributed to the growth and economic prosperity of Otero County. Ranching and agriculture became major industries, as the region's fertile soil and favorable climate allowed for the cultivation of crops and the raising of livestock. The town of Alamogordo, now the county seat, was founded during this time and quickly thrived as a central hub for commerce.

Today, Otero County remains an important part of New Mexico's history and economy. Its rich cultural heritage, outdoor recreational opportunities, and proximity to natural wonders such as White Sands National Park continue to attract visitors and residents alike.

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

  • 1848 - The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, establishing the border between Mexico and the United States and making the area a part of the New Mexico Territory.
  • 1873 - Otero County is officially established, named after Miguel Antonio Otero, a prominent local politician and businessman.
  • 1881 - The first railroad, the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe, is completed through Otero County, boosting economic development in the region.
  • 1899 - The city of Alamogordo is founded in Otero County as a railway town, serving as a hub for the timber and mining industries.
  • 1942 - The first atomic bomb is detonated at the Trinity Site, located within Otero County, as part of the Manhattan Project.
  • 1982 - White Sands National Monument, known for its iconic white gypsum sand dunes, is designated as a national park, attracting tourists from around the world.
  • 2000 - The population of Otero County reaches over 62,000, marking a significant increase from its early days.