Historical Marker

Monica Fuentes Gallegos (1851–1909) & Carlota Fuentes Gallegos (1857–1936)


Monica and Carlota Gallegos, widowed sisters, ranched 375,000 acres. Monica operated a general store and saloon and issued scrip in her name. When Black Jack Ketchum raided the ranch in 1890, Monica shot him in the arm. The sisters built a school and, in 1876, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, furnished with large Italian statues. Their vision ensured economic and social stability in Gallegos

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.

Audiobooks about the history of New Mexico.
New Mexico is home to many important Native American sites and cultures, including the Taos Pueblo, Acoma Pueblo, and Navajo Nation. These tribes have lived in the region for thousands of years and have preserved their traditions and customs despite centuries of colonization and oppression.
New Mexico random facts
Harding County, located in northeastern New Mexico, has a rich and unique history. It was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Comanche, Kiowa, and Apache. The area later became part of Spanish colonial territories in the 18th century, when it was known as Santa Rosa and served as a stopping point along the Santa Fe Trail. In the mid-19th century, the land was acquired by the United States as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and was opened up to settlement.

The town of Roy, now the county seat, was founded in 1916 as a result of coal mining activities in the area. The discovery of coal brought an influx of workers and businesses, leading to the development of additional towns, such as Mills, Harding, and Gallegos. The coal mining industry played a crucial role in the county's economy for several decades, but it began to decline in the mid-20th century, leading to a gradual decrease in population.

Harding County is also known for its ranching heritage. Cattle and sheep ranching have been significant industries in the area since the 19th century. Many families still maintain ranches in the county, which contributes to its rural character and picturesque landscapes. The county's agricultural sector has diversified over time to include crops like hay, oats, and wheat.

Today, Harding County remains a small, rural community with a population of approximately 700 people. The county's vast open spaces, rugged terrain, and abundance of wildlife make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is also home to natural landmarks, such as Kiowa National Grassland and Mills Canyon Park, offering opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. While its economy has shifted away from coal mining, the county retains its agricultural roots and continues to embrace its western heritage.

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

  • 1919 - Harding County was established on March 4.
  • 1920 - The county seat, Mosquero, was established.
  • 1930 - The population of Harding County reached its peak with 2,408 residents.
  • 1932 - The Capulin Volcano National Monument was established.
  • 1938 - Harding County experienced severe drought and dust storms during the Dust Bowl.
  • 1960 - The population of Harding County declined to 1,641 residents.
  • 1978 - Harding County celebrated its 10th anniversary of the county fair.
  • 1993 - The Kiowa National Grassland was officially designated.
  • 2000 - The population of Harding County dropped to 810 residents.
  • 2010 - Harding County experienced another decline in population, reaching 695 residents.