Live music, refreshments and a presentation on the history of New Mexico courthouses are included in the event, which begins at 4 p.m.
The event is free and open to the public.
“Bernalillo County is proud to host this special event to honor New Mexico and the families that helped build our state,” says Bernadette Miera, a manager in the county’s Economic Development and Cultural Services Department. “We encourage families, students and the community to join us and celebrate at this free event.”
The evening begins with a reception and opening for the Centennial Hall History Exhibit featuring historical photos and other items from Bernalillo County’s history on the 10th Floor of the City/County Government Center, Conference Room B. The opening features live music by renowned classical guitarist Hector Pimentel and refreshments.
On the 6th floor, county staff will unveil a new mural featuring historical scenes of life in Bernalillo County. There, musician Frank McCulloch y Sus Amigos will provide entertainment.
The event continues at 5:30 p.m. with a presentation by local historian Denise Tessier on the history of New Mexico courthouses on the 3rd floor of the county annex at 415 Tijeras Ave. N.W. After the lecture, county staff will lead a tour of this historic building which previously served as the county courthouse, including holding cells in the basement of the building.
Finally, participants at this event are encouraged to learn more about the county’s Online Family History Project, an effort to collect stories and photos from New Mexico families in celebration of the state’s 100th birthday. The stories and photos will be collected through Oct. 31, posted on www.bernco.gov/historyproject, and sent to the state archives later this year.
“We’ve received a great response for our online history project and we’re looking for more stories about the people and places that make New Mexico the most unique and fascinating state in the country,” says Bernadette Miera, project coordinator.
What: Opening for Bernalillo County’s Centennial Hall History Exhibit, featuring photos, historical items, a new mural, a lecture, a historical tour and music
When: Friday, Aug. 3, from 4 – 6 p.m. The Centennial Hall History Exhibit runs through Oct. 31.
Where: The exhibit opens at the City/County Government Building, One Civic Plaza, at 4 p.m. The courthouse presentation is at 5:30 p.m. at 415 Tijeras Ave. N.W., 3rd Floor. The tour of the old courthouse will take place after the lecture.
Cost: Free
For more information contact Bernadette Miera at 505.468.1279.