What is the history of Albuquerque’s name?

Highway sign on historic Route 66 eastbound. Photo by Brian DeGruchy

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QUESTION IN PROGRESS

Question:

“I’d like to know about the origins of Albuquerque’s name and the early history of the city in general.”

What we have learned:

There is some controversy surrounding the founding of Albuquerque.  Don Francisco Cuervo y Valdes is credited with naming the settlement “Alburquerque” in 1706. Note the second “r” in the original spelling — but that isn’t the controversy. There was a requirement in 1706 that to establish a town it must have a minimum of 35 families. Historians say Cuervo y Valdes may not have met the requirement.

Our story tries to connect historic Albuquerque to its modern culture and its iconic moments and people. We all know Albuquerque is a diverse city — home to ancient Pueblo civilizations and Hispanic culture that reaches over 300 years — but we will also explain why there’s a “tri-cultural myth” around Albuquerque today.

What we still need to learn:

We still are trying to find a source who can talk more about the controversy of Albuquerque’s founding. Did Cuervo y Valdes have the required number of families, or is that another myth?

Contact:

Travis Gonzales: tgonza09@unm.edu; Christian Naranjo: naranjo7@unm.edu; Kyle Herrera: kherr24@unm.edu[/text_output][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][image type=”none” float=”none” info=”none” info_place=”top” info_trigger=”hover” src=”5314″][text_output]Highway sign on historic Route 66 eastbound. Photo by Brian DeGruchy / NM News Port[/text_output][share title=”Share this Post” facebook=”true” twitter=”true” google_plus=”true” linkedin=”true” pinterest=”true”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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