Renovations are underway to restore the "Red Room" at the Bataan Memorial Building to one of its previous architectural periods. The room, formerly the Senate chamber during the building's time as New Mexico's capitol, played a significant role in the state's legislative history from 1900 until 1966.
Designed by architect Isaac Hamilton Rapp and completed in 1900, the building served as the New Mexico Territorial Capitol and became the state capitol when New Mexico achieved statehood in 1912. It housed all branches of government, with the Senate chamber, later known as the "Red Room," being central to legislative processes.
Marilyn Martinez, FMD project manager, said, "The main goal is to renovate and restore the red room to its capabilities." She added that they would work with the Historical Society and Department of Cultural Affairs due to its status on both State and National Historic Registries.
The "Red Room" likely got its name from its red décor, a common practice for naming rooms based on color schemes. This tradition is seen in other government buildings like the White House's Red Room.
After relocating to a new capitol in 1966, the building was renamed Bataan Memorial Building in 1968 to honor New Mexico National Guard soldiers who endured hardships during World War II. Currently uninhabitable due to degradation, restoration efforts include reroofing before further work can proceed.
Martinez explained they are conducting archival research on past renovations from 1951 and the 1980s. Becca Snyder from Woven Architecture noted they will assess existing conditions before deciding which historic period to restore.
Martinez expressed a desire for renovations that honor what the building represents: "We want it to be part of the memorial that represents those service members."
Today, it houses several departments including Finance and Administration, Veteran Services, Cultural Affairs, and stands as a testament to New Mexico's political and cultural history.
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