About Our Museum
Located in Santa Fe, the New Mexico Military Museum offers an engaging exploration of our state's rich military history, deeply intertwined with the nation's legacy. Housed in a historic building originally constructed as a National Guard Armory, the museum reflects its early 20th-century roots, when it served as a center for military training and readiness. This architectural landmark stands as a testament to the enduring commitment of New Mexico's servicemen and women to protect and serve their country.
One of the museum's most poignant narratives is its tribute to the Bataan Death March. During World War II, hundreds of New Mexico's soldiers were among the brave men who defended the Philippines, only to endure unimaginable hardship after their capture by enemy forces. The museum ensures their sacrifices are never forgotten, presenting personal stories, artifacts, and photographs that honor their courage and resilience.
The museum's exhibits span centuries, from early military conflicts in the region to modern-day service. Visitors can discover the roles New Mexicans played in pivotal moments, such as the Civil War battles in the West, the development of atomic energy during World War II, and ongoing contributions to national defense. Through thoughtfully curated displays, oral histories, and educational programming, the museum connects visitors to the individual stories behind the uniforms.
Dedicated to preserving the legacy of New Mexico's military community, the New Mexico Military Museum inspires appreciation for the sacrifices of those who served. It is not just a repository of artifacts but a living testament to the courage, resilience, and enduring spirit of New Mexico's service members and their families.
Our Mission
The primary goal of the New Mexico Military Museum is to discover, preserve, and disseminate knowledge about New Mexico's military history. This museum seeks to strengthen public understanding of how conflicts have shaped the state of New Mexico as well as the national experience.
By documenting, preserving, and exhibiting the stories of war through our collections, we hope that we may begin a dialogue with the community about how wartime efforts have shaped the state of New Mexico and the world-at-large.
Our Current Goals
To advance our key focus of preservation, we are working towards raising the standards of our collection housing by improving building infrastructure. This will ensure the conservation of our collection in perpetuity. Our collection consists of Historic Objects, Fine Art, Archives, and a Library. We are diligently working on permanent upgrades to our gallery, and collection housing spaces to further this goal.
Our Historic Building
La Armeria de Santa Fe
The New Mexico Military Museum is located in the Old Santa Fe Armory which is included in the National Register of Historic Places (Ref. # 11000530). It was the second armory built in Santa Fe, constructed in 1909 and expanded through Works Progress Administration funding in 1938, La Armeria de Santa Fe was dedicated in 1940 as home to Battery C of the 200th Coast Artillery which played a major role in the defense of the Philippines and was part of the Bataan Death March. During World War II, the armory served as New Mexico's official induction center, where more than 57,000 men took their oath of service. In 1993, the historic building reopened as the Bataan Memorial Military Museum, preserving its legacy of military service and remembrance.
Institutional History
The New Mexico Military Museum was established in 1993 and has undergone a few name changes throughout the years. It was originally called the Bataan Memorial Museum as a way to honor the service of our Bataan Veterans. Given the National Guard's connection to this armory and their physical history here, the name was changed to the National Guard Museum. Now, in order to include all branches of service the name has changed to the New Mexico Military Museum.
Plans, Policies, and Procedures
In order to be transparent, the New Mexico Military Museum has made its current collections policy and strategic plan available to the public.
These plans, policies, and procedures will be updated as necessary and as dictated by policy.