New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties Facts for Kids

The New Mexico State Register of Cultural Properties is like a special list of important places in New Mexico. These places can be historic, meaning they have a lot of history, or prehistoric, meaning they are from a time before written records. This list helps protect and celebrate these special spots.

The list is kept by the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division, which is part of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. A group called the Cultural Properties Review Committee meets often to decide which places should be added to the list. They also help nominate places for a bigger list called the National Register.

Cool Places on the List
Images for kids
See also

Cool Places on the List

New Mexico has many amazing places on its State Register. Here are just a few examples of the kinds of properties you might find:

Ancient History and Landmarks

Salmon Ruins: This is an ancient site in northwest New Mexico. It was once a large village built by the Chacoan people long ago. It's a great place to learn about early civilizations in the area.
Trinity Site: This is a very important historical spot in Socorro County. It's where the first-ever nuclear weapon was tested. It marks a huge moment in world history.
Wagon Mound: This is a natural landmark in Mora County. It was a famous stopping point for travelers on the historic Santa Fe Trail. Imagine pioneers seeing this unique shape!
Watrous/La Junta: Also in Mora County, this was a settlement where two important routes of the Santa Fe Trail met. It was a busy place for traders and travelers.

Historic Buildings and Sites

San Felipe de Neri Church: Located in Old Town Albuquerque, this church is a beautiful and historic building. It's been a central part of the community for centuries.
Hodgin Hall: This building is on the main campus of the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque. It's one of the oldest and most recognizable buildings at the university.
KiMo Theater: Found in Albuquerque, the KiMo Theater is a unique and historic movie theater. It's known for its special Pueblo Deco style, which mixes Native American and Art Deco designs.
Old Albuquerque High School: This historic school building in Albuquerque has seen many students pass through its doors. It's an important part of the city's educational history.
Deming Armory: Located in Deming, this building was built for the National Guard in 1915-1916. It was the first armory built after New Mexico became a state. It was even used during Pancho Villa's raid on Columbus.
Taos Inn: This famous inn in Taos is a historic landmark. It's known for its unique charm and long history as a gathering place.
Ernie Pyle House/Library: This was the home of famous World War II journalist Ernie Pyle in Albuquerque. It's now a library and a tribute to his work.

Unique Cultural Properties

High Road to Taos: This isn't just one building, but a scenic route that winds through the Sangre de Cristo Mountains from Santa Fe to Taos. It passes through many historic villages and offers stunning views.
Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway Locomotive 2926: This is a historic train locomotive. It's a great example of the powerful trains that helped build America.
D. H. Lawrence Ranch Historic District: Near San Cristobal, this ranch was once home to the famous writer D. H. Lawrence. It's a quiet place with a lot of literary history.