Join and Support the Glorieta Battlefield Coalition
Significance of the Glorieta Battlefield
The Battle of Glorieta Pass actually covers three significant phases that took place March 26-28, 1862. Called by some historians the ÒGettysburg of the West,Ó it was here Federal forces checked Confederate dreams of territorial expansion. After enjoying early successes and setting up the Confederate Territory of Arizona, the vanguard of the Texan invasion marched out of Santa Fe determined to seize Fort Union Ð the major supply base in the Southwest. At Glorieta Pass they met a mixed force of U.S. Regular troops, local militia, and Colorado volunteers equally determined to stop the Confederate advance.
After an inconclusive skirmish on March 26 in Apache Canyon, on March 28, 1862, the Texans marched into the Glorieta Pass on the Santa Fe Trail. The opposing forces clashed near PigeonÕs Ranch. The Confederates drove the Federals back and held the field at the end of the day, only to learn a Federal flanking force had fallen on their rear and destroyed the Confederate wagons and supplies. Thereafter, the Confederates began a long and arduous retreat back to Texas. The Confederate hopes for a Southwest territory that would stretch to the Pacific Ocean, and gaining control of the gold fields in Colorado, came to an end.
Current Goals of the Glorieta Battlefield Coalition
Continue support of the NPS study to relocate New Mexico Highway 50 away from battlefield or implementation of other mitigation measures.
Support and assist in the acquisition of further lands critical to the battlefield.
Encourage, advocate and otherwise support interpretive markers to allow visitors to gain a greater understanding and visual experience of the battlefield, with emphasis on the significance of the battle, the events leading up to the battle, and the long term results to both sides and the surrounding territory.
Educate the public on the significance of the battle and importance of preservation efforts pertaining thereto.
Join and Support the Glorieta Battlefield Coalition
Basic Membership (Annual) $25.00
Cannoneer $50.00
Commander $100.00
Help us: Friends of Glorieta Battlefield Coalition
_____ $25
_____ $50
_____ $100 or more
_____ Whatever you can
Make checks payable to
Glorieta Battlefield Coalition
P.O. Box 2168
Albuquerque, NM 87103-2168