The Bataan Memorial Building's "Red Room," a significant part of New Mexico's territorial history, is undergoing restoration with the assistance of the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division (NMHPD). State Historic Preservation Officer Michelle Ensey said, "The Red Room is a key piece of New Mexico’s state and territorial history, and we’re proud to work alongside our colleagues in other departments to restore this historic space."
Earlier this year, the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) and the General Services Division (GSD) initiated a historic rehabilitation of the Old Senate Chambers within the Bataan Memorial Building. This building originally served as New Mexico’s Territorial Capital from 1900 until statehood in 1912. The room continued as the Senate chambers until 1966 when legislative activities moved to the Roundhouse.
As part of this project, NMHPD is evaluating proposed plans under the New Mexico Cultural Properties Act. This act ensures preservation and protection for culturally significant buildings, structures, sites, and objects. It mandates consultation between state agency heads and the NM State Historic Preservation Officer for projects involving properties listed in the NM State Register of Cultural Properties.
The Bataan Memorial Building was added to the State Register in late 2024 and recently included in the National Register of Historic Places. NMHPD reviews such projects at various stages including schematic design, design development, and construction drawings. For this restoration effort, NMHPD collaborates with Barbara Felix, AIA, Principal Architect for Woven Architecture, along with DFA and GSD. The aim is to maintain historical features while updating it for modern use.
Additionally, NMHPD seeks historic photographs of the Red Room or those who served there as senators or staff. Interested individuals can email nm.shpo@dca.nm.gov with their contributions.
The New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs oversees NMHPD's efforts to manage historic preservation across the state by educating the public and protecting numerous historic sites.
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