New Mexico History Museum at 113 Lincoln Ave. in Santa Fe. Courtesy/NMHM
New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs News:
SANTA FE – Critical thinking, research, and creative expression will be spotlighted by students at the National History Day 2026 New Mexico Regionals contest on Wednesday, March 4, at the New Mexico History Museum.
This annual event, supported by the Historical Society of New Mexico, brings hundreds of students, teachers, and judges to the museum for a juried competition of student projects on a range of historical topics.
This year’s theme, “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History”, offered a broad framework for students in grades 6-12 to investigate subjects ranging from ancient civilizations to contemporary movements to global events.
“This year’s theme was chosen to align with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. I’m excited to see how students connect the historical events they select to these themes,” said Nancy Morris-Judd, Education Coordinator at the History Museum.
In addition to the displays and presentations, the museum is also featuring the award-winning 2025 student project, an exhibit titled “Tierra o Muerte”, created by Cobre High School students Elias Guadiana, Cheyanne Medrano, and Mateo Salcido.
The exhibit explores the 1967 Tierra Amarilla Courthouse raid and its lasting impact on land grant activism in New Mexico. It will be on display beginning Feb. 27 inside the Palace of the Governors.
Student Cheyanne Medrano said, “I really enjoyed working on this project because of the details I learned surrounding the event; if you don’t have the historical context, a lot of importance is lost.”
The National History Day regional competition is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and visitors are invited to experience the energy and enthusiasm of the students by viewing their exhibits, short documentary films, and performances. Entry into the activities is included with museum admission. The museum will be open to the public during regular hours, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., throughout the competition.