The New Mexico Historic Preservation Division has announced the addition of two historic districts to the State Register of Cultural Properties. The Cultural Properties Review Committee approved proposals in June to expand the Fort Wingate Historic District near Gallup and add the University Heights Historic District in Albuquerque. Both districts will also be referred to the National Register of Historic Places for potential inclusion.
State Historic Preservation Officer Michelle Ensey said, "These two historic districts showcase very different portions of New Mexico’s history, while highlighting the range of architectural styles in our state." She expressed gratitude for the efforts of the Cultural Properties Review Committee and stakeholders involved in preserving these districts.
Originally listed on both State and National Registers in 1978, Fort Wingate's expansion now includes areas associated with its reuse as an Indian boarding school from 1926 to 2009. This includes school buildings constructed between the 1930s and 1974, featuring Pueblo Revival style structures and facilities built during the 1960s and early 70s. The expansion highlights Fort Wingate's agricultural programs and provides context for Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding schools in New Mexico. Despite documented abuses at other Indian Schools, no such incidents are known at Fort Wingate during its operation as a school.
University Heights, located about 130 miles east of Fort Wingate, is one of Albuquerque’s earliest automobile suburbs on the East Mesa. It features a variety of architectural styles from Craftsman-style homes of the 1920s to ranch houses from the late 1940s through the 1960s. The district maintains historic integrity with its street plan and housing rhythm consistent with pre-World War II city planning efforts.
More information about these districts can be found at nmhistoricpreservation.org.
Information from this article can be found here.
