Historical Markers in
Sandoval County, New Mexico

Bernalillo Bernalillo on the Camino Real Colorado Plateau Colorado Plateau (2) Continental Divide (3) Cuba Dulcelina Salce Curtis (1904−1995) Evelyn M. Vigil, Phan-un-pha-kee, "Young Doe" (1921–1995) and Juanita T. Toledo, Pha-wa-luh-luh, "Ring-Cloud Around the Moon" (1914–1999), Jemez Pueblo Fenton Lake State Park Iglesia De San Ysidro Jemez State Monument (1) Jémez State Monument (2) Jicarilla Apache Reservation Kearny’s Route Kewa Women’s Co-op, Santo Domingo Pueblo La Angostura Las Placitas (1) Pueblo of Jémez Pueblo of San Felipe Pueblo of Santa Ana Pueblo of Santo Domingo Pueblo of Zia Pueblo Revolt Tricentennial (5) San Juan Basin Soda Dam Spanish Entrada Site Tiguex Province Trinidad Gachupin Medina (ca. 1883–1964), Zía Pueblo Valle Grande (1) Valle Grande (2) Women of Cochití, Cochití Pueblo Women Veterans of New Mexico
In 1945, the world's first atomic bomb was tested at the Trinity Site in New Mexico. The test was part of the Manhattan Project, a secret government program to develop nuclear weapons during World War II.
New Mexico random facts
Sandoval County, located in the state of New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history that spans several centuries. The area was originally inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Pueblo people, who left behind archaeological evidence of their settlements and developed sophisticated agricultural techniques. Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century and established missions in the region, marking the beginning of European influence in Sandoval County.

In the 19th century, the construction of the Santa Fe Trail brought increased trade and settlement to the area. As American settlers arrived, conflicts between the newcomers and the Native American tribes escalated, leading to the New Mexico Wars. These conflicts ultimately resulted in the displacement of the Native peoples and the establishment of American control over the region.

Sandoval County played a significant role in the New Mexico Territory during the Civil War. It was the site of the Battle of Valverde, a major engagement between Union and Confederate forces. Following the war, the area experienced an influx of settlers attracted by the agricultural potential and abundant natural resources of the Rio Grande valley.

In the 20th century, Sandoval County continued to develop and grow. The construction of Interstate 25 and the subsequent expansion of transportation routes brought increased connectivity to the region. Today, Sandoval County is known for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Jemez Mountains and the Valles Caldera National Preserve. It also serves as a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its rich cultural heritage, Native American art, and historical landmarks.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Sandoval County, New Mexico.

  • 1852: Sandoval County is established as one of the nine original counties of the New Mexico Territory.
  • 1883: The county seat is moved from Bernalillo to Cuba.
  • 1918: Coyote Dam is constructed, providing irrigation water for local farmers.
  • 1944: The town of Jemez Springs is incorporated.
  • 1974: Sandoval County Historical Society is founded to preserve and promote the county's history.
  • 1985: The Jemez Pueblo is designated a National Historic Landmark.
  • 1998: Petroglyph National Monument is established within the county's borders.
  • 2011: The village of Rancho de San Juan is incorporated.