Santa Fe Trail Bicentennial

Journey across five states and 200 years of history during the Bicentennial of the Santa Fe Trail!

 

Duration:

1 minute, 40 seconds

National Park Service rangers from across the Santa Fe Trail commemorate the 200th anniversary. Travel the trail with us to visit Fort Larned National Historic Site, Pecos National Historical Park, Fort Union National Monument, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site, and the National Trails Office in Santa Fe!

Learn more about the 200th Anniversary!

Contact the Santa Fe Trail Association for logo use

The year 2021 marks 200 years since the Santa Fe Trail began its tenure as a commercial highway. The initial journey in 1821 from Missouri to Santa Fe was met with good fortune. William Becknell and his party of five happened to travel the Trail just after Mexico (present day New Mexico) opened to international trade. Becknell’s party was welcomed in Santa Fe and they returned to Missouri having reaped the benefits of the risky trip.
This year we reflect upon the original journey as a turning point in American history. Not only did the Trail move goods, but it also spread ideas, cultures, and people. For some, movement on the Trail was positive, while others suffered from it. Stories of conflict, commerce, and culture abound on the Trail, with the potential to teach us about our past and help us determine our future.

Join us in remembering this historic trail in 2021 by walking along the ruts, seeking out hidden spots, sharing stories both old and new, and discovering the legacy of the Great Prairie Highway.

 

 

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Image/NPS

The Santa Fe Trail, 1821-2021: 200 Years of Commerce, Conflict & Culture