NMDCA News:

Join Shane Weigand for an exclusive ONLINE presentation, “From Mines to Main Street: The Enduring Legacy of New Mexico’s Burros,” at the Friends of History lecture, 12–1 p.m., Dec. 3.

At this month’s Friends of History First Wednesday Lecture Series, Shane Weigand, the founder of New Mexico Pack Burros, will discuss how the mighty little burro has been a major player in New Mexico history from the time of the 16th Century Conquistadors to present day burro racing.

This lecture traces the burro’s journey through history, exploring their essential role in shaping New Mexico’s economy and culture, their decline with modernization, and their surprising resurgence through heritage races, tourism, and conservation efforts. Weigand is a public land manager, backcountry expedition leader, and entrepreneur dedicated to reviving New Mexico’s mining and trail heritage through pack burro races, guided wilderness expeditions, and cultural tourism.

Friends of History, a nonprofit organization of volunteers dedicated to supporting the New Mexico History Museum, offers the public monthly programs from a variety of speakers who are leading experts in their fields and have contributed to New Mexico’s history.