National Register of Historic Places listings in Union County, New Mexico facts for kids
Welcome to Union County, New Mexico! This area is home to many special places that are important to history. These places are listed on something called the National Register of Historic Places. Think of it like a special list of buildings, sites, or objects that are worth protecting because they tell us about the past.
In Union County, there are 10 places on this list. One of them is even more special and is called a National Historic Landmark. All these historic spots in Union County are also recognized by the state of New Mexico on their own list of important cultural properties. Let's explore some of these amazing historical treasures!
Historic Places in Union County
Union County has many interesting sites that have been recognized for their historical importance. These places help us understand what life was like long ago and how the area grew.
Amistad Gymnasium
The Amistad Gymnasium is located near State Road 402 in the town of Amistad. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on March 15, 1996. Gymnasiums like this were often important community centers, not just for sports but for gatherings and events.
Clayton Public Library
The Clayton Public Library can be found at 116 Walnut Street in Clayton. This building became a historic place on December 20, 2002. Libraries are vital for learning and community life, and this one has served the people of Clayton for many years.
Clayton Public Schools Historic District
The Clayton Public Schools Historic District includes several blocks in southeastern Clayton, around 6th and Cedar Streets. This area was recognized on March 15, 1996. It highlights the importance of education and the historic school buildings in the community.
Eklund Hotel
The Eklund Hotel is a famous building at 15 Main Street in Clayton. It was added to the National Register on January 17, 2002. Hotels like the Eklund were once busy hubs for travelers and an important part of town life.
Folsom Hotel
The Folsom Hotel is located at the corner of Grand Avenue and Wall Street in Folsom. This hotel was listed on May 14, 1987. It played a role in the history of Folsom, a town known for its connection to the Old West.
Gate, Fence and Hollow Tree Shelter Designed by Dionicio Rodriguez
You can find this unique artwork at 320 Oak Street in Clayton. It was designed by Dionicio Rodriguez and added to the list on November 25, 2008. Rodriguez was known for his amazing concrete sculptures that looked like natural wood. This piece is a great example of his special style.
Goodson Memorial School
The Goodson Memorial School is located on State Road 456, about four miles west of State Road 406, near Seneca. It became a historic site on January 8, 2003. This school building represents the history of education in the rural parts of Union County.
Luna Theater
The Luna Theater is at 2-6 Main Street in Clayton. It was added to the National Register on January 17, 2007. Movie theaters like the Luna were once popular places for entertainment and community gatherings.
Rabbit Ears (Clayton, New Mexico)
Rabbit Ears is a natural landmark located northwest of Clayton. This site is very special because it's not just on the National Register, but it's also a National Historic Landmark. This means it's considered one of the most important historic places in the entire country. It was recognized on October 15, 1966. The "Rabbit Ears" are two distinct peaks that were important landmarks for travelers on the Santa Fe Trail.
Union County Courthouse (New Mexico)
The Union County Courthouse is on Court Street in Clayton. It was added to the National Register on December 7, 1987. Courthouses are important buildings where local government and justice take place, and this one has a rich history in Union County.
Former Listing
Sometimes, a place might be removed from the National Register of Historic Places. One such place in Union County was the McNees Crossing Site. This site was located near the North Canadian River, close to State Road 18, near Seneca. It was listed on March 25, 1971, but was later delisted.
