Carlotta Thompkins Thurmond "Lottie Deno" (1844-1934)
Immortalized in literature and film, Kentucky native Carlotta Thurmond was the inspiration for Miss Kitty on television’s “Gunsmoke.” Having toured Europe’s best gambling houses as a child with her father, in Texas she called herself “Lottie Deno,” a play on “lotta dinero.” Fellow gamblers said she had ice water in her veins, yet when she moved to Kingston, New Mexico, she left many belongings for the needy. She gave up gambling upon moving in 1882 from Silver City to Deming where she co-founded St. Luke’s Episcopal Church
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.
New Mexico was one of the last territories to become a state, gaining statehood in 1912. Before that, it had been part of the Spanish Empire, Mexico, and the United States Territory of New Mexico.
The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century established the first European presence in the area. They brought with them new technologies, livestock, and an interest in mining. Luna County's history is closely tied to the silver and gold mining booms of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The discovery of these valuable minerals led to an influx of settlers and the establishment of towns such as Deming, the county seat.
During this time, Luna County experienced rapid growth and economic prosperity. The railroad arrived in the late 19th century, further fueling the mining industry and enhancing transportation links. This period witnessed the development of infrastructure, with schools, churches, and businesses being established to support the growing population. However, as the mines depleted and the Great Depression struck, the region faced economic hardships, leading many residents to seek employment opportunities elsewhere.
In the mid-20th century, Luna County's economy shifted towards agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The county's fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for cotton cultivation. The agricultural industry boomed, and Deming became known as the "Cotton City." However, water scarcity and changing market conditions eventually led to a decline in cotton production, prompting farmers to diversify their crops and explore alternative industries.
Today, Luna County remains an important agricultural region and is known for its pecans, chile peppers, and onion crops. The region also attracts tourists with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, including rock climbing, hiking, and birdwatching. With its rich heritage and resilient spirit, Luna County continues to evolve and adapt, embracing its past while moving towards a vibrant future.
Luna County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Luna County, New Mexico.
- Luna County, NM was established in 1901
- In 1921, the county seat was moved from Deming to its current location in Deming
- During the mid-20th century, Luna County experienced a surge in population due to the growth of mining and ranching industries
- In 1966, NASA established the Manned Spacecraft Center near Deming, contributing to the county's economy
- In the 1970s, Interstate 10 was constructed, connecting Luna County to major cities like Phoenix and El Paso
- Throughout the late 20th century and into the 21st century, Luna County has focused on promoting tourism and sustaining its agricultural sector