Pancho Villa State Park
Historical marker location:
NM Highway 9 and NM Highway 11, Columbus, New Mexico
( Pancho Villa State Park near east gate)
You are on land once occupied by Camp Furlong, staging grounds for General John J. Pershing’s 500-mile expedition by 10,000 troops into Mexico in pursuit of General Francisco “Pancho” Villa. Four camp buildings remain in the park, including the 1902 U.S. Customs House which was built alongside the El Paso and Southwestern Railroad tracks. The Village of Columbus and Camp Furlong Historic District became a National Historic Landmark in 1975
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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.
About Luna County
Luna County Timeline
Luna County, located in the southwestern region of New Mexico, has a rich and intriguing history that spans several centuries. The region was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Mimbres and Apache, who relied on the land's resources for survival.
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.
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