Route 66
You are traveling an early alignment of U.S. 66, perhaps the most well-known road to follow this historic transportation corridor. A Spanish mission trail to Pecos Pueblo, the Santa Fe Trail and the National Old Trails Road all predate the Mother Road in using this narrow passage through rocky terrain. Until the 1930s, Route 66 was aligned through downtown Santa Fe, exited the city to the southwest, traversed La Bajada and passed through the famed “Big Cut” before descending into Albuquerque. In 1937, Santa Fe was bypassed and Route 66 straightened, creating a direct east-west alignment that eliminated 197 miles of travel
New Mexico played a significant role in the American Civil War, with Union and Confederate forces fighting several battles in the territory. The most famous of these was the Battle of Glorieta Pass in 1862, which ended Confederate hopes of capturing the Southwest.
About Santa Fe County
Santa Fe County Timeline
Santa Fe County, located in the heart of New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history that stretches back thousands of years. The area has evidence of human habitation dating back over 10,000 years, with various indigenous communities calling the region home. The Ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, were some of the earliest inhabitants and left behind impressive cliff dwellings and rock art that can still be visited today.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in search of the legendary Seven Cities of Gold. It was during this time that Santa Fe, which means "holy faith" in Spanish, was established as the capital of the Santa Fe de Nuevo México province, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the United States. The Spanish influence can still be seen in the adobe architecture and the blending of European and Native American culture.
During the 19th century, Santa Fe County and the surrounding area became an important frontier outpost of the United States. In 1846, as part of the Mexican-American War, the region was officially incorporated into the United States. This event led to the establishment of the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route connecting Missouri to Santa Fe, which brought increased commerce and growth to the area.
In the early 20th century, Santa Fe County experienced a significant cultural and artistic boom. Artists and writers were drawn to the region for its natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The city became a renowned art destination, attracting renowned painters such as Georgia O'Keeffe. Today, Santa Fe County continues to be a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and tourism, with its historic downtown, art galleries, and annual events like the Santa Fe Indian Market attracting visitors from around the world.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the area, led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado in search of the legendary Seven Cities of Gold. It was during this time that Santa Fe, which means "holy faith" in Spanish, was established as the capital of the Santa Fe de Nuevo México province, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the United States. The Spanish influence can still be seen in the adobe architecture and the blending of European and Native American culture.
During the 19th century, Santa Fe County and the surrounding area became an important frontier outpost of the United States. In 1846, as part of the Mexican-American War, the region was officially incorporated into the United States. This event led to the establishment of the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route connecting Missouri to Santa Fe, which brought increased commerce and growth to the area.
In the early 20th century, Santa Fe County experienced a significant cultural and artistic boom. Artists and writers were drawn to the region for its natural beauty and unique cultural heritage. The city became a renowned art destination, attracting renowned painters such as Georgia O'Keeffe. Today, Santa Fe County continues to be a vibrant hub for arts, culture, and tourism, with its historic downtown, art galleries, and annual events like the Santa Fe Indian Market attracting visitors from around the world.
Santa Fe County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Santa Fe County, New Mexico.
- Prehistoric Times: Ancient Pueblo People settled in the area thousands of years ago.
- 16th Century: Spanish explorers, led by Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, arrived in the region.
- 1610: Santa Fe was established as the capital of the Spanish territory of Santa Fe de Nuevo México.
- 1821: Mexico gained independence from Spain, and Santa Fe became part of the Mexican Territory of Santa Fe.
- 1846: The United States acquired Santa Fe and the rest of New Mexico as a result of the Mexican-American War.
- 1912: New Mexico became the 47th state of the United States, with Santa Fe remaining its capital.
- 20th Century: Santa Fe became known as an art and cultural center, attracting artists, writers, and tourists.