The Downtown Albuquerque Walking Tour: For People Who Prefer to Sit

On Sunday, January 21, 2024, amateur historian Roland Penttila presented a partial history of Central Avenue (previously Railroad Avenue) and the changes that occurred after the railroad came to town in 1880 up to the present day. This history is supported with vintage photos of the buildings–many of which no longer exist.

The program was 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.

Photo of Roland PenttilaRoland Penttila is a retired civil engineer who decided to spend some of his time learning more about Albuquerque’s history. He joined AHS in 2012 and has served on the Board, was a downtown walking tour guide and has made a few AHS presentations. He is currently researching the short-lived Fedway downtown store. He has now lived in Albuquerque for 25 years. He volunteers weekly for the museum’s photo archives. He lives with his wife, Peggy, in the southeast heights with their two rescue dogs.