New Mexico

Archival Research and Special Collections in the Black West

Here are institutions and archival resources in New Mexico where Africana history, culture, and archival research are documented and made available for scholars, students, genealogists, and the public:

African Americans in New Mexico, Center for Southwest Research and Special Collections, University of New Mexico University Libraries
The HistoryMakers (Oral histories from New Mexico)
The History of African-Americans in New Mexico, the Public Library, Albuquerque and Bernalillo County
National Museum of African American Performing Arts & Culture, Albuquerque
New Mexico's African American Legacy: Visible, Vital, Valuable, New Mexico History Museum
The Office of African American Affairs, NewMexico.gov
Newspapers & Community Press as Archival Sources:
- African Americans in New Mexico, University of New Mexico University Libraries

Tips for Archival Research

Start with online finding aids — many archives have searchable guides you can review before visiting.
Contact archivists ahead of time — they can help identify relevant collections and materials.
Explore digital collections first — some historical photos, oral histories, and exhibits may be available online.
Leverage community institutions — university archives and regional historical societies often collaborate with local historians.