Santa Fe is the capital city of New Mexico with a history that is old, and varied, and that combines the cultures of many different people groups through the centuries. This history shapes what Santa Fe has become as well as the legacy that it continues to build for generations to come. Here is a short history of the interesting city, from its humble beginnings to how it became a kind of icon of the southwest that it is now.

Earliest Known Habitation

The city shows signs of human habitation as far back as 900 BC. The area was originally home to the Pueblo peoples, most particularly the Tewa. These early inhabitants had thriving communities, a piece of which remains in the area, preserved in places like the Pecos National Historical Park where modern viewers can see and appreciate the ancient ruins of this bygone civilization.

The Beginning of European Influence

Santa Fe remained the home of native American people until the early 17th century when Spanish explorers led by Don Juan de Oñate arrived, bringing about the beginning of European influence in the area. In 1610 Santa Fe was established as the capital of the Spanish "Kingdom of New Mexico," which makes it the oldest capital city in the United States. Spanish colonial influence on the city has become a legacy through Spanish architecture which you can still see today in the adobe buildings and narrow, winding streets.

New Mexico as a Territory in the US

New Mexico became a territory of the United States in the 19th century after the events of the Mexican-American War. In 1880, railroads began to span the country and soon Santa Fe was connected to the rest of the nation by railway, facilitating trade in the area and bringing in crowds of new settlers. Santa Fe became a city known for being the home and inspiration for many artists, writers, and intellectuals, as new communities came to see and appreciate the fascinating and beautiful landscape and culture of the area.

Established as an Art City

While artists of all kinds were already flocking to Santa Fe, the reputation of Santa Fe as a city of art, art appreciation, and the developments of the artistic community really made its permanent mark in the early 20th century. Famous artists like Georgia O'Keeffe and Alfred Stieglitz came to the area and legitimized it as an artistic haven, a legacy the city continues to celebrate to the present.

The Late 90s

Santa Fe experienced significant growth in the latter half of the 20th century. With its mild climate and beautiful scenery, tourism began to take off and it was becoming a hotspot for retirees. With this sudden growth, there were concerns about preserving the true roots and history of the city. Efforts were made to maintain the city through stricter zoning regulations and the preservation of the old Spanish architecture of the city.

To the Present

Today, due to the rich history and faithful preservation of that history, Santa Fe is an emblem that beautifully encapsulates the spirit of the Southwest. For those who might want to experience the wonder of this southwestern city firsthand, there are plenty of Santa Fe apartments for rent, providing the perfect home base for exploring all that this old, historical city has to offer.