Alamogordo NM
9-24-2025 10:22pm

Alamogordo Public Library and Tularosa Basin Museum Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

ALAMOGORDO, NM — As Hispanic Heritage Month unfolds across the nation, the Alamogordo Public Library is inviting residents to explore the rich tapestry of Hispanic American history through a powerful digital resource: NewsBank’s “Hispanic Life in America” database.

Available free to all library cardholders, the database offers an expansive archive of primary source news coverage documenting the Hispanic experience in the United States—from the 18th century to the present day. With access to over 17,000 publications, including Spanish-language sources, the collection provides a comprehensive lens into the cultural, political, and social contributions of Hispanic communities across generations.

A Gateway to Hispanic History and Identity

“Hispanic Life in America” is more than a research tool—it’s a living archive of voices, events, and movements that have shaped the nation. Users can explore:

• Historical milestones such as immigration waves, civil rights struggles, and cultural renaissances.

• Contemporary issues including education, healthcare, and political representation.

• Local and national coverage from newspapers, magazines, and broadcast transcripts.

To begin exploring, residents simply need their Alamogordo Public Library card and can visit the library to learn more.  

Local Legacy: Hispanic Heritage in Alamogordo

Beyond the digital archive, stories of Hispanic culture and achievement in Alamogordo are preserved and celebrated at the Tularosa Basin Museum of History, located in the heart of the Alamogordo MainStreet District at 10th and White Sands Blvd.

Among the museum’s featured narratives is that of Benny Garcia, a trailblazing Hispanic athlete born in La Luz, NM, and raised in Alamogordo. Garcia competed in the javelin throw at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, becoming the first native-born New Mexican to participate in the Olympic Games. His athletic journey—from walking six miles home after practice to earning a full scholarship at Arizona State University—epitomizes perseverance and pride.

 Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15, honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans in Southern New Mexico and around the nation.

In Alamogordo, the celebration includes volunteer efforts like the Dudley School Restoration Project, which is tasked with  preserving the legacy of the city’s historically Hispanic neighborhood known as Chihuahuita. 

Also honored in Alamogordo and recognized across the city, is 89 year old Coach Bob Sepulveda, the winningest boys track and field coach in Alamogordo High School history. Sepulveda led the Tigers to four consecutive state titles in the 1990s, and his legacy continues through the athletes he mentored, many of whom went on to compete at collegiate and Olympic levels. His contributions are chronicled in the book series Coach Robert (Bob) Louis Sepulveda: The Early Years, co-authored by Chris Edwards and Rene Sepulveda. The Tiger Football Stadium Track and Field is named in his honor.

Other Hispanic athletes recognized in the community include Rene Sepulveda, a two-time Olympic Trials qualifier in the marathon, and Mark Sanchez another fierce competitor, a state medalist and longtime educator in Alamogordo Public Schools. 

There stories, alongside broader exhibits on Hispanic life are  part of the deep history of the Tularosa Basin. They offer a powerful complement to the digital resources available through the library, at the museum and soon to be showcased in the soon to open Dudley Center Community Center featuring story boards of notable Black and Hispanic Individuals from the Alamogordo community. 

To learn more visit the local Alamogordo Public Library, the Tularosa Badin Museum and sign up for our newsletter at AlamogordoTownNews.org 

Sources:

Alamogordo Public Library Databases – City of Alamogordo: https://ci.alamogordo.nm.us/200/Library-Databases

NewsBank Marketing Resource Center – Hispanic Life in America: https://www.newsbank.com/public/marketing-resource-center/hispanic-life…

 Benjamin Garcia (athlete) – Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Garcia_(athlete)

2nd Life Media – “Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Benny Garcia”: https://2ndlifemediaalamogordo.town.news/g/alamogordo-nm/n/216603

 Goodreads – Coach Robert (Bob) Louis Sepulveda: The Early Years: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54486691-coach-robert-bob-louis-sep…

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