A Tradition Renewed: The New Mexico State Historic Preservation Conference
For nearly two decades, the New Mexico State Historic Preservation Conference served as the premier gathering place for preservationists, planners, architects, archaeologists, educators, tribal representatives, community leaders, and advocates committed to protecting New Mexico’s cultural heritage. Organized by the New Mexico Heritage Preservation Alliance (NMHPA), the conference traveled throughout the state, bringing preservation conversations to communities including Albuquerque, Las Vegas, Roswell, Santa Fe, Silver City, and Taos. Themes explored the challenges and opportunities facing historic places, from preservation law and transportation policy to rural heritage, growth management, and community revitalization.
The final NMHPA conference was held in Portales in 2013. As the demands of producing a statewide conference grew, the organization gradually reduced operations and ultimately dissolved in 2022. Yet the need for a statewide preservation gathering never disappeared. Across New Mexico, professionals and volunteers continued to seek opportunities to share ideas, learn new skills, build partnerships, and advocate for the places that define our communities.
Viva Vegas ’25: A Successful Revival
In 2025, the conference returned through a partnership between the New Mexico Historic Preservation Division and Cornerstones Community Partnerships. Hosted in Las Vegas, New Mexico, Viva Vegas ’25 welcomed 200+ participants from across the state and beyond, demonstrating that preservation remains a vital force in New Mexico’s future.
The conference highlighted how historic preservation intersects with some of the most pressing issues facing communities today, including
· affordable housing
· workforce development
· climate resilience
· sustainability
· heritage tourism
· economic revitalization
Through tours, workshops, presentations, and networking opportunities, participants reaffirmed the value of preservation as both a cultural and economic tool. The success of Viva Vegas ’25 made it clear that New Mexico once again needed a regular statewide forum dedicated to preservation.
Photographs from the 2025 Statewide Conference held in Las Vegas, New Mexico
Looking Ahead: ABQ Rendezvous ’27
Building on the momentum of Viva Vegas ’25, the next New Mexico State Historic Preservation Conference will be held in Albuquerque, October 13–16, 2027, on the campus of the University of New Mexico.
Albuquerque is an ideal host city because it embodies the many layers of New Mexico’s history and cultural identity. From Indigenous settlement and Spanish colonial traditions to railroad expansion, Route 66 tourism, and modern urban development, Albuquerque offers a living cosmos where preservation challenges and successes can be experienced firsthand.
The city’s extraordinary concentration of historic resources provides opportunities for learning that extend far beyond the conference meeting rooms. Attendees can
· explore Old Town Albuquerque and San Felipe de Neri Church, one of the city’s oldest surviving buildings;
· visit the nationally significant Petroglyph National Monument;
· engage with Native cultures through the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center;
· study the city’s remarkable collection of Pueblo Revival, Territorial Revival, Art Deco, and Mid-Century Modern architecture.
Albuquerque also serves as one of the most important Route 66 communities in the nation. Along Central Avenue, preservationists can examine successful rehabilitation projects, restored neon signs, historic motels, commercial corridors, and adaptive reuse efforts that demonstrate how preservation can support economic development and community identity.
The city is equally notable for its active preservation community. Local government preservation programs, advocacy organizations, educational institutions, neighborhood associations, and cultural organizations have long worked together to protect Albuquerque’s historic resources. The presence of the University of New Mexico’s Historic Preservation and Regionalism Program further strengthens Albuquerque’s role as a center for preservation education and research.
Beyond its historic resources, Albuquerque offers practical advantages as a conference destination. Its central location, transportation infrastructure, lodging options, cultural attractions, and accessibility make it easier for participants from across New Mexico and the Southwest to attend. Combined with a rich variety of tour sites and case studies, Albuquerque provides an ideal setting for meaningful discussions about the future of preservation in New Mexico.
What to Expect
The 2027 conference will bring together professionals, students, tribal representatives, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, property owners, contractors, and community advocates who share an interest in preserving New Mexico’s cultural heritage. Conference sessions will explore topics including:
Historic preservation policy and law
State and tribal preservation programs
Funding opportunities and grants
Affordable housing and adaptive reuse
Sustainability and climate resilience
Heritage tourism and economic development
Traditional building practices and materials
Community revitalization and cultural landscapes
Preservation case studies and technical workshops
Timeline
Wednesday, October 13 - Conference opens with optional hands-on workshops, specialized convenings, and an opening reception at the University of New Mexico.
Thursday, October 14 and Friday, October 15 - Conference continues at the University of New Mexico Student Union Building with presentations, panel discussions, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and guided tours
Saturday, October 16 - Conference concludes with site visits, workshops, and tours highlighting Albuquerque’s historic districts, Route 66 resources, the Albuquerque Rail Yards, and other significant cultural landmarks.
New Mexico is reaffirming its commitment to historic preservation as a tool for economic development, cultural enrichment, and community identity. Whether you are an experienced preservation professional or someone who simply cares about the future of New Mexico’s historic places, ABQ Rendezvous ’27 offers an opportunity to learn, connect, and help shape the future of preservation across the state. Attendees will leave equipped with the knowledge, inspiration, and resources to champion preservation efforts in their own communities.
For more information, registration updates, scholarships, and sponsorship opportunities, visit:https://www.preservenewmexico.com/