New Deal Agencies: Works Progress Administration (WPA)
Artists: Tom Lea
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Description
"Tom Lea, currently a resident of El Paso, created two fifteen-foot panels which are housed in this gallery on campus. They depict scenes from New Mexico's colorful history from 1599 to 1870. 'Conquistadors' presents the Spanish conquest and late historical developments in the area while 'La Mesilla' deals with the two main industries at the time: agriculture and ranching. Also included are scenes from events in the Mexican War, Apache raids and the acquisition of La Mesilla as a part of the United States via the Gadsen Purchase. Lea Researched his material in Santa Fe using documents from the Palace of the Governors as sources to ensure historical accuracy. These can be seen upon request."
-Treasures on New Mexico Trails
Source notes
Flynn, Kathryn A., editor. Treasures on New Mexico Trails: discovery of New Deal art and architecture. New Mexico State Historic Preservation Division, 1995. Pg. 59. "New Deal Sites in New Mexico," Atlas of Historic New Mexico Maps, New Mexico Humanities Council.