Historical Marker

Mary White (1894–1988)


In 1927, “Miss Mary” established one of the earliest Girl Scout camps in America and the first in New Mexico. Situated on 200 acres in Otero County, a stately pine lodge, Ingham Hall, nestles amid cabins and outbuildings of Camp Mary White. Generations of girls, who learned stewardship of nature and community at the camp, continue to be energized as activists by Mary White’s pioneer spirit

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.

The state's landscape is diverse and includes deserts, mountains, and forests. It is home to several national parks and monuments, including Carlsbad Caverns National Park and the White Sands National Monument.
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 concise overview of the key events in the history 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.