Old Mesilla, Exterior of Taylor Properties, Black & White (year & photographer unknown). Courtesy: New Mexico Historic Sites

NMDCA News:

MESILLA — After more than two decades of anticipation, a historic property that captures the birth and growth of New Mexico’s borderlands and showcases a stunning collection of folk art is opening its doors as the eighth New Mexico Historic Site.

Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site’s Grand Opening Fiesta on Saturday, Nov. 8, 2025, will celebrate this milestone with a ribbon cutting, live music on the Mesilla Plaza, and other special activities throughout the day. Presented by New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs (NMDCA), New Mexico Historic Sites (NMHS), and the Friends of Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site, the event launches an exciting new era of cultural programming for the historic town of Mesilla.

“Through tremendous dedication and care from a team of staff, museum and preservation experts, volunteers, and consultants, we are proud to now share this cultural gem with New Mexicans and visitors alike,” says Anne McCudden, Executive Director of New Mexico Historic Sites.

Three buildings at Taylor-Mesilla make up the historic site and are on the National Register of Historic Places, including two store fronts and a large residence. It was once home to the late New Mexico legislator, educator, and community leader J. Paul Taylor and his wife Mary Daniels Taylor, an award-winning photographer and writer.

The Taylors lived and raised their family in the home for more than 70 years and built a significant collection of fine art from New Mexico artists, as well as folk art from around the world. J. Paul and Mary recognized the significance of their collection, as well as the history of the buildings, and donated their home to the State in 2003 with plans for it to become part of NMHS upon their passing.

“Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site offers a truly authentic experience for both community members and visitors to learn about the history of Mesilla as a center of political, commercial, and social activity through time,” says NMDCA Cabinet Secretary Debra Garcia y Griego. “After years of preparation and renovations, we are thrilled to fully open the site to the public.”

“The Friends of the Taylor-Mesilla Site have been honored to support the historic preservation efforts and look forward to many years working with the incredible staff,” says Heather Pollard, President of the Friends of the Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site.

In honor of the Taylors’ legacy, NMDCA is thrilled to share Mesilla’s history with New Mexicans, while introducing visitors to what makes the New Mexico borderlands special. More information about the site and its history can be found at nmhistoricsites.org/taylor-mesilla.

The Reynolds Store Visitor Center at Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site features an exhibition on the history of the town of Mesilla and of the site’s historic buildings. Image of a historic gray brick storefront with window walls featuring blue trim and a sign that hangs over the front doors that says Taylor-Mesilla Historic Site. Three people stand on the sidewalk talking in front of the building. Credit: NMHS/DCA

A museum gallery space with wood floors features graphic text and image panels and plexiglass cases with artifacts. A wooden stairwell leads up and in two directions to a balcony level. Credit: NMHS/DCA