Silver City Celebrates Its Unique Territorial Charter

Silver City remains the only municipality in New Mexico operating under its original 146-year-old charter. History of the Territorial Charter is celebrated annually on February 15^th. 

As stated by the Silver City Museum publications, this charter which precedes statehood by 34 years was due to conflict between early settlers and the New Mexico Territorial Legislature. Being denied equal representation by the corrupt “Santa Fe Gang,” a rebellion resulted, with settlers threatening to secede from the New Mexico Territory and join the Arizona Territory.

The early residents knew they needed a town charter to build their community the way they needed it.  Santa Fe relented and granted Silver City its own charter on February 15, 1878. The self-governing charter provided the ability to incorporate as a town, set taxes, establish free public schools and – as described in an Albuquerque newspaper – become “the only real American town in New Mexico.” The newspaper added that it was also “the liveliest and most enterprising.”

Over the years, the community has celebrated this rich heritage in a variety of ways. First with semi-Centennial celebrations in 1927 and 1928, Frontier Days in the 1960’s and a Centennial in 1978. Finally, on February 15, 2020, Mayor Ken Ladner declared February 15 as Territorial Charter Day. Since then the Town of Silver City has sponsored events celebrating this rich history, which includes a Territorial Charter Ball, historical re-enactments, and a burlesque baseball game.

The Silver City Museum Society heads up the committee bringing these events to life each year. Once again, the popular Territorial Charter Ball will be held at the Murray Hotel Ballroom on February 15 from 7-10 p.m. This year’s Charter signing re-enactment will also take place at the Ball. The mayor and dignitaries will perform the historical event in costume with pomp and circumstance.

All attendees are encouraged to dress in period or formal attire. Costumes range from dance hall girls, dignitaries, cowboys, to sequined gowns. Little Toad Creek Brewery will provide a cash bar for this festive occasion. Flowers on 11^th are decorating the tables with gorgeous center pieces which will be sold by donation. Music by Silver City’s own Illusion Band starts at 7 p.m. with the doors opening at 6 p.m.

Stay tuned for the Spring Burlesque Baseball game reviving a historical past time from the 1880’s which involves hysterical costumes and unusual rules! Organizer Raul Turrieta says that this year’s lively game will be a challenge between the fire department and police departments and community players.

Tickets for the Territorial Charter Ball are $15 per person and $25 per couple and are available at Vintage Fantasy, 412 North Bullard Street or at the door. For further information visit www.SilverCityMuseumSociety.org.