COLUMBUS, N.M. – Pancho Villa State Park will host Camp Furlong Day on Saturday, March 14, commemorating the history surrounding Pancho Villa's 1916 raid on the Village of Columbus.
As part of the Cabalgata Fiesta de Amistad, presented by the Village of Columbus and held annually near the anniversary of the March 9, 1916, raid, Camp Furlong Day offers visitors an opportunity to explore the site where U.S. and Mexican history collided, shaping military strategy, border relations and life in southern New Mexico for generations.
"Events like Camp Furlong Day allow us to remember the people, places, and decisions that shaped New Mexico's border history," said Toby Velasquez, director of New Mexico State Parks. "By preserving this site and sharing these stories, we ensure future generations understand the significance of what happened here."
Throughout the day, park visitors can participate in special ranger-led tours and view exhibits highlighting Camp Furlong's role during the Villa Raid. Special guest presentations will provide deeper historical context:
At 10 a.m., historian Glenn Minuth will present, "The Importance of Cootes Hill on the Raid on Columbus."
At 1 p.m., Minuth returns with, "Mexican Death Train: The Santa Ysabel Massacre."
At 2 p.m., historian Mike Anderson will present, "Tracks Through History: The Story of the El Paso and Southwestern Railroad."
The Cabalgata Fiesta de Amistad includes the Memorial Ride from the border into Columbus, recognized as Luna County's longest horse parade. Festivities continue in the downtown plaza with mariachis, folklorico dancers, and community gatherings honoring the shared cultural history of the border region.
Pancho Villa State Park is located at 228 W. Highway 9 in Columbus, New Mexico, approximately 30 miles south of Deming via Highway 11 or 70 miles west of Santa Teresa via Highway 9. The park offers a large campground with utility hookups for recreational vehicles (RVs). The park preserves the remains of Camp Furlong and serves as a museum and educational center focused on the 1916 raid and its lasting impact on the region.
All activities are FREE and open to the public. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early, as presentation and tours are expected to draw strong attendance. For details, visit https://www.emnrd.nm.gov/spd/find-a-park/pancho-villa-state-park / or call 575-531-2711
