Experienced New Manager joins NMDCA Historic Sites in Southern New Mexico

November 28th, 2023

SANTA FE, NM - New Mexico Historic Sites welcomes a new manager to Fort Selden Historic Site and Taylor Mesilla Historic Property, Wendi Laws. Wendi, who was born in Silver City and grew up in Las Cruces, is returning home to New Mexico with the experience of working at several parks and historic sites in Texas.  

Laws is looking forward to collaborating with DCA staff at the sites here to grow opportunities for visitors. “These sites embody the history and rich heritage of Southern New Mexico, and I am eager to engage with communities in Las Cruces and the surrounding areas to showcase all that the region has to offer to both residents and visitors!” said Wendi, “I consider it an honor to help lay the foundation for a new public space in Old Mesilla where visitors can come and enjoy beautiful art and culture, as well as continuing to showcase the rich history of Fort Selden’s occupants over the span of hundreds of years.” 

After graduating with an MA in Museum Studies from the University of Oklahoma, Wendi launched her career working for park systems in Texas where she served for several years as site manager and an interpretive ranger. Those parks are also home to historic sites where she researched, presented programs, and designed exhibits to highlight the history of the locations. “I have curated many exhibits, lovingly cared for the historic homes, developed countless programs and special events, and cared for collections housed in the buildings.  This experience has solidified my love of working for both museums and historic sites and I am overjoyed to be able to continue this work in New Mexico,” said Wendi. 

“Developing the exhibits and staff necessary to open Taylor Mesilla Historic Site to the public will be no easy task, but Ms. Laws is up for the challenge, and we are very excited to have her on board,” said Matthew Barbour the Deputy Director, New Mexico Historic Sites & Co-Interim Director, Office of Archaeological Studies. 

Wendi starts her new role with Taylor Mesilla Historic Property on December 9, 2023.