New Mexico History Museum to host regional youth history competition

 New Mexico History Museum is partnering with the New Mexico Humanities Council to host one of four National History Day 2025 New Mexico Regionals contests on Friday, March 7, 2025. This exciting event brings hundreds of students, teachers, and judges to the museum to share their historical perspectives in a juried competition.

National History Day (NHD) is a year-long academic competition for students in grades 6-12, promoting inquiry, primary source research, and presentation skills. Aligned with New Mexico Social Studies State Standards, NHD allows students to explore their historical passions through various project formats including documentaries, exhibits, research papers, performances, and websites.

"There’s an energy at National History Day that’s contagious! The passion these students have for history is truly remarkable, and it’s a privilege to host them here at the museum," said Christina McCorquodale, the Education and Engagement Supervisor at the museum. "We believe in supporting the next generation of historians, and this event is a wonderful way to do just that. It’s exciting to see the museum come alive with their research, creativity, and enthusiasm."

This year’s theme, "Rights & Responsibilities in History," invites students to delve into the complex interplay of these forces throughout history, examining cause and effect, change over time, and impact and significance.

Visitors are invited to experience the energy and enthusiasm of NHD at the New Mexico History Museum (NMHM) campus by viewing student exhibitions and performances from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Entry into NHD activities is included with museum admission. The museum will be open to the public during regular hours, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., throughout the competition.

This year, NMHM is featuring the award-winning 2024 student project, an exhibit titled "Gas Baths and the Bracero Program in New Mexico and Beyond," in the Palace of the Governors.

NHD in New Mexico is sponsored by the New Mexico Humanities Council, which supports public programs in New Mexico communities that inspire inclusive conversations, strengthen our civil society, and celebrate diverse human experiences. The program is supported by the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs. Learn more at https://newmexicohumanities.org/stories-programs/national-history-day

About New Mexico History Museum

New Mexico History Museum, a division of the New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs, offers a welcoming place for exploration of multifaceted views on history, dialog that bridges social and cultural divides, and reflection on the conditions needed for a more resilient, just, and sustainable future. The NMHM campus is located on the north side of the historic Santa Fe Plaza. Learn more at nmhistory.org.