City of

Las Vegas, New Mexico, has a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years, beginning with Native American cultures and continuing through its modern-day status as a historic town.
 
Las Vegas, New Mexico, is the original "Las Vegas" and predates the more famous Las Vegas, Nevada. The town of Las Vegas, NM, was founded in 1835 by Spanish settlers, long before the city in Nevada became known as a major resort and entertainment hub. The name "Las Vegas" comes from the Spanish word for "the meadows," referencing the area's lush, fertile plains and abundant water resources.
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While Las Vegas, NM, grew significantly during the 19th century due to its strategic location along the Santa Fe Trail and later the railroad, it remained a smaller, more historically rooted town. In contrast, Las Vegas, Nevada, was established much later, in 1905, and became famous for its casinos, resorts, and entertainment.
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Despite the fame of Las Vegas, Nevada, the New Mexico town holds historical significance, boasting a rich cultural heritage and over 900 historic buildings. It continues to be a charming town with a unique blend of Old West history and modern-day attractions.

 
Here’s a brief overview of its history:
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Early History and Native Peoples
Long before European settlers arrived, the Las Vegas area was inhabited by Native American groups, particularly the Paleo-Indians, Anasazi, and Mogollon peoples. These cultures left behind artifacts and structures, especially in the surrounding mountains and valleys, providing evidence of their presence in the region for thousands of years.
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Spanish Exploration and Settlement
In 1598, Spanish explorer Juan de Oñate led the first European expedition into what is now New Mexico, establishing the area as part of the Spanish colonial territories. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the area that would become Las Vegas was officially settled by Europeans. The town was founded in 1835 by Spanish settlers under the name Senora de los Dolores de Las Vegas (Our Lady of Sorrows of the Meadows). The name referred to the lush meadows and the abundance of water in the region.
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Mexican and U.S. Rule
Following the Mexican War of Independence in 1821, Las Vegas became part of Mexico, but it was soon claimed by the United States after the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which ended the Mexican-American War. The town became an important outpost as settlers began to move westward, especially following the Santa Fe Trail, which passed through the area.
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Boomtown and the Railroad Era
In the late 1800s, Las Vegas experienced a boom with the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in 1880, which turned the town into a critical transportation hub. The railroad brought people from all over the United States, and Las Vegas became a melting pot of cultures. During this time, the town flourished as a center for cattle ranching, farming, and commerce. The town’s growth led to the development of both East Las Vegas and West Las Vegas, which later merged but maintained separate identities and cultural differences.
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The Wild West and Lawmen
In its early years, Las Vegas was known as a haven for outlaws and lawmen alike. It was a dangerous and lawless place where famous figures like Billy the Kid, Jesse James, and Doc Holliday roamed. The town’s history is steeped in these Wild West tales, which still form a key part of its identity today.
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The 20th Century and Cultural Development
In the 20th century, Las Vegas became known for its cultural contributions, particularly in film-making, theater, and arts. It served as a backdrop for several major Hollywood films, and theaters like the Las Vegas Opera House became central to the town's social life. During this period, Las Vegas was also an important center for ice distribution, thanks to its proximity to the Gallinas River and Montezuma Pond.
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The University and Modern Era
In the 1890s, New Mexico Highlands University was founded in Las Vegas, which helped establish the town as an educational and cultural center. Over the years, the university has played an important role in shaping the community.
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While the town experienced challenges, including economic fluctuations and natural disasters, Las Vegas has retained much of its historic charm. Today, it is known for its beautiful architecture, including over 900 historic buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, and its strong ties to the Old West.
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Cultural Preservation and Modern-Day Las Vegas
Modern Las Vegas, NM, is a blend of old and new. It celebrates its heritage through annual festivals, such as the Fourth of July Fiestas, which honor its early history and Catholic roots. The town also remains a popular location for film and television productions, continuing its legacy as a hub for artists and creatives.
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Las Vegas, New Mexico, with its rich history, cultural diversity, and scenic beauty, stands as a unique reflection of the American Southwest. It remains a vibrant town where the past and present coexist, offering a deep sense of connection to the region’s history while continuing to grow and evolve.