Date:
9/15/2006
Contact: Wendel Sloan at 505.562.2253
PORTALES—For his thesis research, Eastern New Mexico University graduate student Paul D. Lemaster is searching for anyone who has information about historical Eastern New Mexico State Park #5. The following is information he has been able to uncover so far:
*In 1934 the Civilian Conservation Corp began work on Eastern New Mexico State Park Number 5.
*There was a large man-made swimming area that was popular from 1936–42. The Portales Valley News Reports on several water festivals during this period.
*In 1940 ENMU constructed a flight line for a federal civilian pilots training program, with businessmen constructing a metal hangar for the aircraft to be housed. In the fall of 1942, the program was changed to a Navy program, titled V-1, V-5 and V-7. These were beginning, intermediate and advanced flight training, and in late 1943/44 this was again changed to an Army Air Corp long distant program.
*In 1951, The New Mexico Legislature passed emergency legislation deeding the property to ENMU. The University then planned for the placement of the ENMU stadium on it by the late 1960's. This may have been a joint effort between the cities of Clovis and Portales to enhance community ties.
Lemaster hopes that families of the region might have some photographs and other tales that will enhance and shed light on the overall importance of this piece of property.
He may be contacted at 505.562.4191 or 505.356.6391, or by e-mailing paul.lemaster@enmu.edu.