Geography ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 4-14-2023

Abstract

Las Cruces is the second largest city in New Mexico which has experienced exponential growth in the last three decades. The city has been cultivated by a rich history of Native populations, Spanish colonialism, and American democratic government. The culmination of these influences on Las Cruces had much influence on the Mesquite Historic District, the original townsite of Las Cruces. This area is home to many generational families and is adjacent to the downtown Main Street corridor. Downtown was built from the destruction of the Mesquite Historic District caused by waves of urban renewal projects. Through organizing, legislative action and mutual aid, generational families are now taking charge of the development of their neighborhood to reflect the original economic, social, and cultural landscape. With the rejuvenation of downtown Las Cruces in the last two decades, community members have empowered themselves to have influence in these project plans. Identifying how residents’ perceptions of their neighborhood and community identity has changed is significant as the city of Las Cruces enacts more plans to stimulate the economic growth of the downtown area.

The purpose of this study is to identify placemaking of residents in the Mesquite Historic District neighborhood in Las Cruces. Utilizing oral history methods, this thesis captures residents and generational families’ strong sense of place within the area, expressed through lasting memories, familiarity with neighbors and businesses, frequenting gathering places and place-making practices. Community identity and sense of place were altered from these waves of urban renewal projects. Community organizing and preservation will be key to meeting the needs of downtown residents.

Degree Name

Geography

Department Name

Geography

Level of Degree

Masters

First Committee Member (Chair)

Natasha Howard Ph.D.

Second Committee Member

Kristina Maria Doyle Lane Ph.D.

Third Committee Member

Christopher Brown Ph.D.

Document Type

Thesis

Project Sponsors

Department of Geography and Environmental Studies, Center for Regional Studies

Language

English

Keywords

Urban Renewal, Urban Geography, Ethnic Geography, Sense of Place, New Mexico, Querencia

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