History of Bernalillo County, New Mexico
Bernalillo County, New Mexico, is one of the most historically significant regions in the American Southwest. It was established in 1852 and is home to Albuquerque, New Mexico’s largest city and cultural hub. The county’s history spans thousands of years, from its Native American roots to Spanish colonization, and its strategic role during the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War. Bernalillo County today is not only a historical crossroads but also a vibrant modern community. It is a place where the ancient and the contemporary coexist, with rich traditions, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks that tell the story of New Mexico’s past.
Origins and Early History
Native American Inhabitants
Before European settlers arrived, Bernalillo County was inhabited by a variety of Native American tribes, particularly the Pueblo people. The Puebloans are one of the oldest continuous communities in the United States, and their ancestors have lived in the area for over 1,000 years. The region around the Rio Grande River, which runs through Bernalillo County, was ideal for agriculture, particularly for growing crops such as corn, beans, and squash.
The Pueblo people established sophisticated communities along the river and created extensive irrigation systems to cultivate crops in the dry desert climate. The nearby Sandia and Manzano Mountains provided resources such as timber, game, and minerals, making this region an important center for trade among Native American groups.
Spanish Exploration and Colonization
In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into what is now New Mexico. In 1540, Spanish conquistador Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led an expedition through the area, searching for the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. While he did not find gold, Coronado’s journey marked the beginning of Spanish interest in the region.
In 1598, Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate established the first permanent Spanish colony in New Mexico, near what is now the town of San Juan Pueblo. By the early 1600s, Spanish settlers began to establish missions and small villages along the Rio Grande, including in what is now Bernalillo County. The Spanish introduced European livestock, agriculture, and Catholicism, greatly influencing the culture and way of life of the indigenous peoples.
The area continued to be a part of Spanish New Mexico under Spanish rule until Mexico’s independence in 1821. For nearly two centuries, Spanish and later Mexican settlers influenced the development of the region.
The Mexican-American War and the U.S. Territorial Period
In 1821, Mexico gained independence from Spain, and the area became part of the newly-formed Mexican territory. However, in 1846, during the Mexican-American War, the United States took control of New Mexico, which led to the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848. This treaty formally ceded New Mexico, along with other southwestern territories, to the United States.
After the war, New Mexico became a U.S. territory, and the establishment of Bernalillo County in 1852 was part of a larger effort to organize the region. Albuquerque, which was founded in 1706, became a significant town and was named the county seat in 1852, further solidifying its central role in the region’s history. The county was named after the Spanish colonial village of Bernalillo, which was located just to the north of Albuquerque.
Key Historical Events
The Santa Fe Trail and Transportation Hub
In the 19th century, Bernalillo County became a major transportation hub due to its location along the Santa Fe Trail. The trail, which connected Missouri to Santa Fe, was one of the most important trade routes in the United States during the 1800s. Albuquerque’s strategic location along the Rio Grande made it a key stop for traders, travelers, and military personnel moving between the eastern United States and the Southwest.
During the mid-1800s, the U.S. Army established forts along the trail, and Bernalillo County became a focal point for the settlement of the West. The completion of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in 1880 further solidified Albuquerque’s role as a transportation hub and led to rapid population growth and economic development in the county.
The Civil War and the American West
Though New Mexico was far from the main theaters of the American Civil War, Bernalillo County was not immune to the conflict. In 1862, Confederate troops attempted to seize New Mexico, and the Battle of Glorieta Pass, which took place in northern New Mexico, was a critical battle for control of the territory. Union forces, including troops from Albuquerque and Bernalillo County, successfully repelled the Confederate advance, ensuring that New Mexico remained under Union control throughout the Civil War.
Following the war, the region saw a significant influx of settlers, including miners, ranchers, and farmers, which led to further growth and development in Bernalillo County. The completion of the railroad in the late 19th century, combined with the discovery of minerals in nearby mountains, led to an economic boom in the region.
The 20th Century and Albuquerque’s Growth
By the early 20th century, Bernalillo County had evolved into a major regional center. Albuquerque’s population surged as the city became a commercial and cultural center of New Mexico. The advent of automobiles and modern highways made travel to and from Albuquerque easier, contributing to its continued growth.
In the 1940s and 1950s, the establishment of key military installations such as Kirtland Air Force Base and Sandia National Laboratories brought a large influx of federal employees to the area, further boosting Albuquerque’s economy and population. The presence of the atomic and aerospace industries in the area helped the region become a center for innovation and technology.
Historical Sites in Bernalillo County
1. The Albuquerque Museum of Art and History
Overview:
The Albuquerque Museum is the cultural heart of the city and showcases the history and art of Albuquerque and the larger Southwest region. It features collections on New Mexico’s history, including the Spanish colonial period, Native American history, and the state’s industrial development. The museum also displays works of art from prominent Southwestern artists.
Location:
2000 Mountain Road NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104.
Ticket Price:
Adults: $6, Children (12 and under): Free, Seniors and Military: $3.
Parking Information:
Free parking is available in the museum lot.
2. Old Town Albuquerque
Overview:
Old Town Albuquerque is the historic heart of the city and serves as a reminder of Albuquerque’s Spanish colonial roots. Founded in 1706, it features adobe buildings, cobblestone streets, and several historic landmarks, including the San Felipe de Neri Church. The area is also home to various museums, galleries, and shops, making it a popular destination for both history buffs and tourists.
Location:
200 N Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104.
Ticket Price:
Free to walk around, but some museums and galleries charge admission.
Parking Information:
Free parking is available at the Old Town Plaza.
3. San Felipe de Neri Church
Overview:
The San Felipe de Neri Church, located in Old Town Albuquerque, is one of the oldest buildings in the city and has been a significant religious site for centuries. The original church was constructed in 1706 and has undergone several renovations over the years. Today, the church serves as an active place of worship and a key historic site in Albuquerque.
Location:
2005 N Plaza St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104.
Ticket Price:
Free (donations welcome).
Parking Information:
Parking is available in nearby public lots in Old Town.
4. Petroglyph National Monument
Overview:
Petroglyph National Monument preserves a large collection of ancient rock carvings created by Native American and early Spanish settlers. The petroglyphs, which can be found on the volcanic rocks of the West Mesa, are a vital link to the region’s early history. The monument offers several hiking trails that take visitors to different rock art sites and provide spectacular views of the Albuquerque area.
Location:
6001 Unser Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120.
Ticket Price:
Free (donations accepted).
Parking Information:
Free parking is available at the visitor center and trailheads.
Geography and Climate of Bernalillo County
Geography:
Bernalillo County is located in central New Mexico and covers an area of approximately 1,160 square miles. The county is bordered to the east by the Sandia Mountains and to the west by the Rio Grande River. Its geography features a mix of arid desert terrain, fertile river valleys, and rugged mountain ranges. The county seat, Albuquerque, sits in a valley along the Rio Grande, making it an ideal location for settlement and agriculture.
Climate:
Bernalillo County has a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures can reach well over 90°F, while winters are typically mild, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 40°F to 60°F. The county receives very little rainfall, with an annual average of about 9-10 inches, and most of the precipitation occurs in the summer monsoon season. The region also experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, especially in the spring and fall.
County Facts
- Year Founded: 1852
- County Seat: Albuquerque
- Population: Approximately 679,000
- Population Density: 586 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, Bernalillo, Los Lunas
- Major Highways: Interstate 25, Interstate 40, U.S. Route 66
- Adjacent Counties: Sandoval County, Valencia County, Torrance County, Santa Fe County
Bernalillo County, New Mexico, is a region with a rich and diverse history, from its Native American roots to its role in the development of the American West. The county’s historical sites, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes make it a prime destination for those interested in exploring the past while enjoying the natural beauty of the Southwest. Today, Bernalillo County remains a dynamic center of commerce, culture, and history in New Mexico.