About the Museum
The Tularosa Basin Historical Museum preserves and shares the rich history of Alamogordo and the surrounding region. Through exhibits, collections, and community engagement, the museum highlights the people, places, and events that shaped the Tularosa Basin, connecting past and present for visitors of all ages.
Building History
Historical
Society
Built in 1938, the Museum’s Plaza Building is a notable example of Pueblo Revival architecture. Located at the corner of White Sands Boulevard (originally Pennsylvania Avenue) and 10th Street, the site once marked the entrance to historic downtown Alamogordo, across from Alameda Park and the Alameda Park Zoo, both included in the town’s original 1898 plat.
The single-story, L-shaped adobe building was constructed using materials made on site, with vigas sourced from the nearby Sacramento Mountains. Built by Howard Beacham, the Plaza originally housed the Plaza Café until 1946 and once included a gas station and garage in front of the building. The structure stands on the former site of the Pullman Saloon and reflects the Pueblo Revival/New Mexico vernacular style common to WPA-era construction in the region.
Founded in 1964, the Tularosa Basin Historical Society has worked to preserve and share the region’s rich history for over six decades. After nearly dissolving in 1997, the organization was revitalized by a dedicated group of new volunteers, ensuring its continued mission.
Today, the Society has grown to more than 200 members and maintains a strong volunteer program supported by approximately 20 active volunteers.
The Society is supported through membership dues, donations, memorial and building funds, and the Museum Gift Shop, which offers books and unique gifts. These combined efforts help sustain the museum’s operations, educational programs, and ongoing preservation initiatives.
