Event recognizes site's transformation from army post to state park
COLUMBUS, NM – Pancho Villa State Park will host Camp Furlong Day on March 8 as part of theCabalgata Fiesta de Amistad in Columbus, New Mexico.
"Cabalgata Fiesta de Amistad" translates to "Horseback Riding Festival of Friendship" in English. It honors the March 6, 1916, surprise attack on Columbus and Camp Furlong by the Mexican revolutionary Francisco "Pancho" Villa triggering the U.S. military's Punitive Expedition to capture him.
The festival features a horseback parade, a memorial, and various other events focusing on the legacy of the raid and Camp Furlong, now known as Pancho Villa State Park, and its pivotal role in U.S. and Mexican history.
"Fiesta de Amistad and Camp Furlong Day are powerful reminders of the importance of preserving New Mexico's heritage, including our shared history with Mexico," said Melanie A. Kenderdine, EMNRD Cabinet Secretary Designate. "Pancho Villa State Park connects the community to this legacy, ensuring future generations can learn about and appreciate the events that shaped our state."
On Camp Furlong Day, visitors can take guided tours of the park's Exhibit Hall, to explore the region's history and learn how the camp became a state park. Guest speakers will also offer insights into events that shaped the Village of Columbus and the surrounding area.
Event Schedule:
9 a.m.: Guided historical tour of the village of Columbus.
10 a.m.: Professor Glenn Minuth, Cochise College, Douglas, AZ
"The Importance of Coote's Hill in the Raid on Columbus"
Visitors will climb Coote's Hill to learn about its tactical role in the raid and its geological significance. The presentation will cover the planning of the attack on Columbus and Camp Furlong.
1 p.m.: Professor Glenn Minuth, Cochise College, Douglas, AZ
"On the Border with the National Guard: Mobilizing for War in 1916"
Minuth will discuss the National Guard's role during the 1916 border crisis, as President Woodrow Wilson mobilized 150,000 soldiers to prevent war with Mexico and prepare for the Mexican Expedition.
2 p.m.: Vernon Yates, Instructor, Fort Bliss Sergeants Major Academy, El Paso, TX
"Virtual Staff Ride – Columbus Raid"
This virtual tour will explore the Raid on Columbus, key figures in the event, and the chaos that unfolded during the attack on the town and its residents.
Event Details:
Date: March 8
Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: Pancho Villa State Park, Columbus, N.M.
Admission: Free (camping and utilities extra)
The park offers a large campground with utility hookups for recreational vehicles. Comfort stations are currently closed for repairs, but restrooms are available near the museum. For more information, call 575-531-2711 or visit Pancho Villa State Park.
For details on events taking place in the Village of Columbus, log onto https://villageofcolumbusnm.com/a-historic-celebration-cabalgata-fiesta-de-amistad-2025/.
