Route 66, Santa Fe Armory Added to List of Landmarks
Associated Press
SANTA FE — A portion of historic Route 66 that runs through the countryside between Bernalillo and Algodones is among several landmarks around New Mexico that have been added to the State Register of Cultural Properties.
The New Mexico Historic Preservation Division announced this week that nearly 5 miles of famous route were added to the Register during a meeting of the Cultural Properties Review Committee earlier this month.
Officials said the two-lane road still follows the original 1926 alignment.
"You still get the feeling and association of traveling Route 66 in its hey day while driving this part of the road," said John Murphy, the Historic Preservation Division's Register coordinator.
Murphy said it's significant that the state listed this section of the road in light of recent publicity over the endangered status of Route 66 and its related resources.
The review committee also decided to list the Santa Fe Armory, through which every man in New Mexico passed if he was inducted into the Armed Forces during World War II. The building was listed in recognition of its contribution to shaping the history of New Mexico and the nation.
"I don't think anything more signifies the hearts and souls of the men who went through that building and risked or gave their lives," Col. Jack Fox, second in command of the New Mexico National Guard, told the committee.
A building in Las Cruces that once served as a prisoner of war camp during World War II was also placed on the State Register. The building also served as a schoolhouse for the Civilian Conservation Corps.
Archaeology sites in Dona Ana County and along the banks of the Pecos near Sumner Lake were also added to the list along with a Methodist Church in Elida, which was nominated for its Gothic Revival architecture.
Built in 1907, the church is still the most active building in town since it serves as an activities center for senior citizens.
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