The New Mexico Historic Preservation Division (NMHPD), in partnership with Cornerstones Community Partnerships, will host a three-day Historic Preservation Conference in Las Vegas, New Mexico, beginning October 3. This marks the first event of its kind organized by NMHPD in over ten years.
“This conference represents an opportunity to bring together organizations across the state who are focused on preservation in their communities,” said State Historic Preservation Officer Michelle Ensey. “We’re incredibly grateful for the chance to bring together these partners and make this conference a reality.”
The event, titled Viva Vegas 25, will be held at New Mexico Highlands University’s campus. The agenda includes sessions on sustainability, affordable housing, gentrification, cultural preservation, preservation law, funding resources, case studies, and practical demonstrations. Attendees will also have opportunities to tour historic sites in Las Vegas and nearby areas such as the Mora Valley mills.
Speakers at the conference include staff from NMHPD as well as professors, architects, and community leaders involved in preservation efforts. Beverley Spears is scheduled to present ‘American Adobes: Cultural Fusion and Adaptation.’ Chris Wilson of the University of New Mexico will address how preservation intersects with housing affordability during his talk ‘Preservation, Urbanism, and the Housing Crisis.’ Breakout sessions will cover topics like developing the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site and repurposing downtown buildings.
A detailed schedule is available online. Registration information can be found at preservenewmexico.com. Early Bird registration costs $250 until September 30.
NMHPD manages historic preservation activities statewide and works to educate residents about protecting historical and archaeological sites throughout New Mexico.