RAFAEL CHACON
Capitán Rafael Chacón was witness to the most significant events in the formation of modern New Mexico, between the U.S.
invasion of 1846 and statehood in 1912. At the tender age of 13, he commanded an artillery position at Apache Pass for the aborted
defense of Santa Fe. During the Civil War, his company fired both the first and last shots at the Texan invaders at the Battles of
Valverde and Glorieta. Chacón served with honor in the campaigns for peace with the Navajos and Apaches, and was the first Commander
of Fort Stanton. He embraced the challenges and contradictions facing all Nuevo Mexicanos, rose to action, and recorded his reflections
as the most resonant Hispano voice from the 19th century.
Prof. Enrique R. Lamadrid teaches folklore, literature, and cultural history
in the Spanish and Portuguese Department at the University of New Mexico and is busy with his students documenting Indo-Hispano cultural
traditions around the state.
Lamadrid has lectured widely on folk music and cultural relations for the New Mexico Endowment for the
Humanities and currently presents the Chautauqua character of Capitán Rafael Chacón, a prominent nineteenth century New Mexican who
raised and commanded his own company in the Civil War.
Dr. Enrique Lamadrid will be portraying Rafael Chacón during Historic Forts Day.
Historic Forts Day at the Center
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Additional information will be posted to this page as the program for Historic Forts Day develops. Check back again for complete
list of presenters and activities.
El Camino Real International Heritage Center is pleased to again host Historic Forts Day at the Center.
If you're
a New Mexico history buff, this event is for you. Like last year, the event is centered around the territorial heritage of the
trail, from Fort Craig, Civil War reenactors, Buffalo Soldiers, to frontier living. This is an opportunity for a hands-on demonstration
of weapons and tools used by 1800s soldiers and frontiersmen along the Rio Grande. Talks by local experts cover a diverse range
of this period of our state's history.
Special activities planned so far include:
Dr. Enrique Lamadrid to portray the life of Captain
Rafael Chacón, eye witness to the Civil War Texas campaign in New Mexico,
Indian Wars, etc.
Dr. Enrique Lamadrid portrays Rafael Chacón
Living history, through various reenactors, is always a favorite with attendees of all ages.
Local experts discuss various aspects of territorial history in several presentations.
Mountain Man demonstrations from Las Golondrinas
Details to be added shortly
Civil War reenactors
Photo presentation of the trail, Confederate camp sites, Battle of Valverde, etc.
