Historical Marker

Maria Montoya Martinez, Povika, "Pond Lily" (ca. 1886–1980)


Maria Martinez was a self-taught potter who helped elevate Pueblo pottery to a respected art form. She and her husband Julian were successful polychrome potters and together revived black pottery. Their work improved the economic conditions of the community. Recognized internationally, Maria was an innovator with strong spiritual and cultural awareness. Her skills and techniques have been carried on successfully by subsequent generations

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 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
Rio Arriba County is located in northern New Mexico and has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Pueblo and Navajo peoples. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, establishing the first European settlements and bringing with them Catholicism. This period marked the beginning of the blending of Native American and Spanish cultures that is still prominent in Rio Arriba County today.

During the 19th century, Rio Arriba County played a significant role in the mining and ranching industries. The discovery of silver and gold in the area brought an influx of settlers, and towns like Chama and Tierra Amarilla saw rapid growth. Additionally, the county's fertile lands and favorable climate made it well-suited for ranching, leading to the development of large-scale cattle ranches. This period of economic growth and expansion shaped the county's economy and laid the foundation for its future development.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rio Arriba County experienced challenges and conflicts. The county's proximity to the Mexican border made it a hotspot during the Mexican Revolution, leading to tensions and occasional violence. Additionally, the area was affected by the growth of federal policies that impacted Native American lands, including forced relocation and the division of tribal lands into individual allotments. These events significantly impacted the cultural and social fabric of Rio Arriba County.

In recent years, Rio Arriba County has faced various socio-economic issues, including poverty, drug abuse, and unemployment. Efforts to revitalize the area have focused on promoting tourism, preserving cultural heritage, and supporting sustainable development. Today, Rio Arriba County celebrates its rich history while working towards a more prosperous and vibrant future.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Rio Arriba County, New Mexico.

  • 1540: Spanish explorers led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado arrive in the region.
  • 1598: Juan de Oñate establishes the first Spanish settlement in the area, known as San Gabriel.
  • 1821: Mexico gains independence from Spain, and the region becomes part of Mexico.
  • 1848: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo ends the Mexican-American War, and the area is ceded to the United States.
  • 1852: Rio Arriba County is officially established as a county in the territory of New Mexico.
  • 1860: The county seat is moved to Tierra Amarilla.
  • 1947: The state Supreme Court case, State of New Mexico v. Roy R. Thompson, addresses land grant issues in Rio Arriba County.
  • 1967: The iconic Ghost Ranch, a popular tourist destination, is donated to the Presbyterian Church.
  • 1970: The El Vado Dam is completed on the Chama River, creating El Vado Lake and providing recreational opportunities in the county.