Historical Marker

Homesteader Mary Ellen “Mollie” Hall Warren Klapp (1862-1933)


Eighty-million acres of public land in the West went into private ownership by 1900 through the 1862 Homestead Act. New Mexico drew hundreds of settlers who built homes and farmed 160-acre allotments in pursuit of a better life. Mollie Klapp was one. Born in Illinois, by 1900 she was widowed in Oklahoma with seven children when she decided to move to Moriarty, a “pinto bean capital of the world.” The Estancia Valley is well-suited to dryland farming and helped New Mexico become the nation’s fourth largest pinto bean producer by 1916 when 2.5 million pounds were harvested. Mollie farmed, taught school, and remarried. Her hard life led to institutionalization at the state mental health hospital in Las Vegas where she worked as a seamstress and housekeeper, and died from “exhaustion.”

The state has a rich tradition of cowboy culture and rodeo, with many annual events celebrating this heritage. One of the most famous is the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which features hundreds of hot air balloons and draws thousands of visitors each year.
New Mexico random facts
Torrance County, New Mexico, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by indigenous people, including various tribes such as the Apache and Puebloan peoples. These native groups lived off the land and made use of the area's natural resources for survival.

The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century marked a significant change in the history of Torrance County. Spanish explorers and settlers began to establish settlements, bringing with them their culture, language, and Catholic religion. This colonization period saw the introduction of livestock, agriculture, and the construction of missions in the area.

During the mid-19th century, a series of conflicts between the US government and Native American tribes, including the Apache, took place in the region. The establishment of military forts, such as Fort McRae, aimed to maintain control and protect settlers from potential attacks. These conflicts eventually came to an end, prompted by the forced relocation of Native American tribes to reservations.

In the 20th century, Torrance County saw significant development with the arrival of the railroad, which allowed for better transportation and economic growth. Towns such as Estancia and Moriarty became important hubs for commerce and trade. Agriculture, particularly livestock and dairy farming, has been a vital part of the county's economy throughout its history.

Today, Torrance County continues to thrive as a rural area with a strong agricultural tradition. It also benefits from its proximity to the Albuquerque metropolitan area, making it an attractive location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still enjoying access to city amenities. The county's history is celebrated and preserved through various museums, landmarks, and cultural events that honor its diverse past.

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

  • 1848 - The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is signed, ending the Mexican-American War and establishing the United States' control over the territory that includes present-day Torrance County.
  • 1880 - The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway is extended through the area, leading to the development of new towns and settlements.
  • 1903 - Torrance County is officially established, named after U.S. Senator Thomas B. Catron's son Arthur Torrance Catron.
  • 1930s - During the Great Depression, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) establishes several camps in Torrance County to provide jobs and develop natural resources in the area.
  • 1942 - The U.S. Army establishes the Manzano Base, which later becomes the Kirtland Air Force Base, bringing economic growth and increased population to the county.
  • 1955 - The John F. Kennedy Space Center is established in Torrance County, playing a crucial role in the U.S. space program.
  • 1977 - The Very Large Array (VLA) radio astronomical observatory is constructed by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in the county, attracting scientists and researchers from around the world.
  • 1996 - The New Mexico State Prison Riot takes place in Torrance County, resulting in the deaths of 33 inmates and the following years of investigation and legal proceedings.