The Albuquerque Historical Society (AHS) is a non-profit, membership organization of residents interested in promoting and preserving all matters relating to the history of Albuquerque, New Mexico and the surrounding communities. Founded in 1947 as the Old Town Historical Society, it originally focused on efforts to preserve the historic character of Old Town Albuquerque. Currently, AHS sponsors a series of monthly Programs and provides Educators with teacher resource guides. We also maintain a Speakers Bureau for primary and secondary schools, host a repository of Source Documents for education and research and honor individuals or group with Albuquerque History Accolades. To learn more about us visit our About page.

Become a Member of the Albuquerque Historical Society

We welcome new members of all ages. It is not necessary to be a historian or have prior knowledge of Albuquerque or New Mexico history. Members receive advance notice via e-mail about forthcoming events sponsored by the AHS, and other societies interested in history, plus opportunities to participate in community and educational outreach activities. To become a member or to renew your current membership, visit our AHS Membership page.

January AHS Program – “Gallup Route 66 Railroad and Highway Interface”

Join us on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 2 p.m. as history-lover Roger Zimmerman explores how Gallup, NM, became a classic Route 66 town where the historic “Mother Road” closely parallels the railroad tracks, creating a distinct downtown layout with motels, diners, and trading posts nestled between the tracks and buildings. The program will be held at the Albuquerque Museum at 2000 Mountain Rd. NW in Old Town. Parking is free in the lot south of the Museum. Admission to the Museum and the AHS program is also free. Read More

January 2026 New Mexico History & Culture Opportunities

There are many opportunities to participate in local and statewide history and cultural programs this month. View the January 2026 New Mexico History & Culture Opportunities web page compiled as a volunteer effort by Janet Saiers.

Walking Through History Tours

How would you like to see, touch, experience and learn about significant historical sites within the Albuquerque metropolitan area? If so, Albuquerque Historical Society Walking Through History tours will be offered each quarter to provide an immersive experience and connect participants with our rich history. Many of these tours will be free and all of them will offer you the opportunity to get in touch with our history. Our next Walking Through History tour is the KiMo Theater on March 11th. , so be sure to RSVP soon! Join the Albuquerque Historical Society Meetup Page to receive updates on all upcoming events and activities.

Route 66 Centennial Speaker Series

Celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Mother Road with the Route 66 Centennial Speaker Series, a year-long program presented by the Albuquerque Historical Society and partner organizations. Running throughout 2026, this free monthly lecture series explores the rich history, culture, architecture, and stories of Route 66 in Albuquerque and across New Mexico, with presentations by knowledgeable speakers at historic venues along the route. Learn about early roadway development, diverse communities, iconic businesses, and the people and places that shaped New Mexico’s stretch of Route 66. Click here to learn more.

Albuquerque History Accolade – Michael Howell

The Albuquerque Historical Society proudly recognizes Michael Howell with an Albuquerque History Accolade for his transformative leadership of the Cavalcade of Wings at the Albuquerque Sunport. Through his dedication to research, accuracy, and public education, Michael has elevated the long-standing aircraft model exhibit into a vibrant aviation history museum that significantly enhances public understanding of Albuquerque’s rich aviation heritage. Read More.

A History Lover’s Guide to Albuquerque

Signed copies of AHS Board Member Roger Zimmerman’s book, A History Lover’s Guide to Albuquerque are available to purchase on the AHS Website at a reduced price of $16. Shipping is free and payment is via PayPal, but a PayPal account is not required if you wish to use a credit card. Please allow about a week for shipping. Roger is donating a portion of proceeds for AHS online sales to the Albuquerque Historical Society.
This book goes beyond the traditional guidebook to offer a historical journal through an area rich with diverse cultures and their fascinating past. Major museums, libraries, ethnic centers, historical displays and special historical treasures will be discussed. It is intended that this guide will help the reader find satisfaction in either visiting or exploring topics of choice.

Past AHS Presentations Available for Online Viewing

The Albuquerque Historical Society maintains videos of scheduled program presentations. The video presentations are permanently available on the AHS YouTube Channel, as well as embedded in the appropriate AHS Program pages. To see a list of AHS program videos, visit our AHS Program Videos page.

AHS Member Participation Opportunity

The Albuquerque Historical Society often receives questions from people about Albuquerque history in general or as it relates to their personal lives. AHS volunteers reply to these questions with answers or referrals to other individuals and organizations that may have answers. AHS is inviting its members to help reply to such questions if they choose. If you are a member of AHS and would like to volunteer to help respond to AHS website inquiries, see our Member Participation on AHS Website Inquiries page.