Riding the Rails Exhibition

The exhibition explores the history of transportation in New Mexico through an examination of the Santa Fe Trail and the railroads.

The Santa Fe Trail was an international trade route between Mexico and the United States from 1821 to 1848 and later a major route for the westward expansion of the United States. it made way for the arrival of the railroad in 1880.

The railroad spurred the growth of New Mexico industry and encouraged the development of towns. The rail opened the southwest to artists, travelers and speculators and became a final destination for many. New Mexico continues to utilize its rails with the completion of the New Mexico Rail Runner Express.