Archaeology and Collections
A spring-fed Pleistocene lake lies in the uplands of the Blackwater Draw National Landmark. The landmark encompasses a 640-acre landscape with areas of human activity. Blackwater Draw is considered the site where the Clovis culture was discovered and is listed as a National Historic Site. Here, the landscape and archaeological significance exist side by side.
The Blackwater Draw Museum was built in 1969 to house artifacts excavated at the Clovis Site. The Roosevelt County Historical Museum was founded in 1940. The Miles Collection comprises approximately 2,500 geological, archaeological and anthropological specimens; it began with quartz crystals known as Pecos Valley Diamonds.
Bill and Alta Dalley donated their windmill collection to preserve it for future generations.
Landscape and Orientation
Oasis State Park is set among cottonwoods, shifting sand dunes and a small fishing lake. Compared with the uplands and their Pleistocene lake at Blackwater Draw, this is a different landscape: cottonwoods and shifting dunes appear alongside the lake. This makes it possible to compare different natural features without reducing them to a single type of landscape.
The Dalley Windmill Museum is located on the fairgrounds near the intersection of U.S. 70 and Lime Street in northeastern Portales.
Art, Literature and Events
University Art offers three opportunities each year to participate in juried exhibitions. Selected works from exhibitions juried by University Art are displayed publicly in the Runnels Gallery, which hosts exhibitions year-round. Exhibition schedules and artwork selections may change; check current dates before planning your trip.
The Jack Williamson Lectureship brings writers, editors, artists and other speakers to Eastern New Mexico University each spring. The annual program includes readings by guest authors, book sales and signings, as well as panel discussions on science fiction and fantasy. Guests and dates may vary; check the current schedule when planning your visit.
The Community Art Exhibition is open to people who live, work or attend school within 40 miles of Portales, New Mexico. Exhibition dates and submission requirements may change; if you are considering entering, check the current guidelines.
The Jack Williamson Science Fiction Library is on the second floor of the GSSC. The Jack Williamson Collection includes science fiction books, fantasy books and the New Mexico Collection.
Local Connection to the Valencia Peanut
The Peanut Valley Craft & Music Festival celebrates the local Valencia peanut. It is considered smaller, brighter and sweeter than other legumes. This gives the local peanut a distinct place alongside the archaeological collections, art and other cultural themes.
Discover more destinations: Portales, Doña Ana, Hidalgo County, Bernalillo, Rice County, Lincoln, Otero County, Mckinley County.
For the broader travel overview: New Mexico.
