New Exhibit at Tularosa Basin Museum Honors Black History in Alamogordo - Part 2 in our Series

The Tularosa Basin Museum of History unveiled a powerful new exhibit this past Saturday that shines a long-overdue spotlight on the Black families who helped shape Alamogordo and the surrounding region. Titled Black History in the Basin, this second exhibit in celebration of black culture was curated by local historians and community leaders Joe and Debra Lewandowski, whose work continues to expand the museum’s reach and relevance.

The exhibit launch, held at the museum’s headquarters in the cultural arts and history district of Alamogordo MainStreet m, drew a crowd of residents, educators, and history enthusiasts eager to learn more about the untold stories of Black life in the Tularosa Basin.

Joe Lewandowski, who spoke at the event, challenged long-held misconceptions about the region’s history—particularly the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers and the migration patterns of Black families to Alamogordo.

“Many of Alamogordo’s Black families arrived here through employment opportunities in the railroad and lumber industries,” Lewandowski explained. “Their contributions to business, education, and culture in the mid-20th century were significant, and it’s time those stories were recognized.”

The exhibit features photographs, written histories, and archival materials that trace the journey of Black families in the region—from early settlement and military service to entrepreneurship and civic leadership. It also serves as a call to action: the museum hopes the exhibit will inspire more families to share their histories and help build a richer, more inclusive narrative of Alamogordo’s past.

Joe and Debra Lewandowski have been instrumental in expanding the museum’s footprint beyond its traditional boundaries. Their efforts have brought new life to historic sites such as the La Luz Pottery Factory and the Dudley School, transforming them into vibrant spaces for education and reflection.

A video of Joe’s presentation at the exhibit launch is available here, offering viewers a deeper look into the stories and insights that shaped the exhibit.

As the museum continues its mission to tell the full story of the Tularosa Basin, Black History in the Basin stands as a testament to the power of truth, representation, and community memory.

Upcoming Event: A Night at the Museum – October 25, 2025 The museum invites the community to return this Saturday for A Night at the Museum, a special evening of discovery and celebration:

 Time: 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
 Location: Tularosa Basin Museum of History, 1004 N. White Sands Blvd., Alamogordo
•Ice Cream Social: $2 per person or $5 per family
 Book Sale: Featuring local history titles and rare finds
 Scavenger Hunt: Explore exhibits in an interactive way
New Exhibits: Including Black History in the Basin, Miami Street Legacy, and Governor Miguel A. Otero

Admission to this eventis free, and all ages are welcome. It’s a perfect opportunity to support the museum, enjoy sweet treats, and engage with the vibrant history of the region.

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