Edgewood, New Mexico History, Economy and Politics
Edgewood, New Mexico is located in the heart of the East Mountains, a range of foothills that rise up from the high plains of central New Mexico. The city is situated roughly 20 miles east of Albuquerque and 25 miles south of Santa Fe. It is bordered to the north by Tijeras Canyon and to the east by Eagle Nest Lake. Visit Equzhou to learn about Bernalillo County, New Mexico.
The land around Edgewood is rugged and varied. The terrain ranges from rolling hills to steep mountains, with elevations ranging from 5,000 feet in the lowest areas to 8,000 feet at some peaks. Much of the surrounding land is covered in pinon-juniper woodlands, with occasional patches of ponderosa pine trees scattered throughout. In addition to its many trees, Edgewood also boasts an abundance of wildlife including deer, elk, bear, coyotes, foxes and wild turkeys.
The climate in Edgewood varies greatly depending on elevation and time of year. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching into the 90s (Fahrenheit) while winters can be quite cold with temperatures dipping into single digits at night. The average annual precipitation for Edgewood is 15 inches per year with most falling between April and October as thunderstorms move through the area.
All in all, Edgewood offers its residents a unique mix of stunning natural beauty combined with a variety of activities to suit any taste or interest. From hiking and camping in nearby national forests to fishing for trout at Eagle Nest Lake or simply enjoying the stunning views from any number of local peaks; there’s something for everyone here!
History of Edgewood, New Mexico
Edgewood, New Mexico has a long and varied history that dates back to the early 19th century. The area was originally home to the Jicarilla Apache people who were later displaced by Spanish settlers in the late 1700s. In 1819, a land grant was issued to Mexican citizen Jose Leandro Perea by the newly independent Mexican government. This area eventually became known as Rancho de los Pinos and included much of what is now Edgewood.
In 1867, the United States acquired this land as part of its purchase of New Mexico from Mexico as part of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Shortly after this time, homesteaders began settling in what is now Edgewood and it soon became a bustling community with a variety of businesses and services.
In 1910, Edgewood officially became an incorporated village with a population of just over 200 people. Over the next several decades, the town continued to grow slowly but steadily as more people moved into the area seeking employment or simply looking for a better life in rural New Mexico.
The modern-day version of Edgewood began taking shape in 1950 when oil was discovered near town and an oil refinery was built. This brought an influx of new residents and businesses as well as an economic boom that continues to this day. In addition to oil production, other industries such as agriculture and tourism have become major players in Edgewood’s economy over the years.
Today, Edgewood is still a small rural community with a population hovering around 5,000 people but it has come a long way from its humble beginnings more than 200 years ago! It is now home to many businesses including restaurants, cafes, shops and more; making it not only an ideal place for those looking for peaceful rural living but also for those seeking urban amenities just outside Albuquerque’s city limits!
Economy of Edgewood, New Mexico
The economy of Edgewood, New Mexico is largely based on the oil and gas industry. The discovery of oil in 1950 brought an influx of new residents and businesses to the area, resulting in an economic boom that continues to this day. Oil production is still a major source of income for Edgewood as it produces both crude oil and natural gas.
In addition to oil and gas production, agriculture is also important to Edgewood’s economy. The town has several farms that produce a variety of crops such as alfalfa, hay, corn, wheat and cotton. These crops are sold both locally and nationally for use in food production or for livestock feed.
The tourism industry has also become increasingly important to Edgewood’s economy over the past few decades. The town’s close proximity to Albuquerque makes it an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful rural getaway without being too far from urban amenities. As a result, there are now several hotels and motels in the area catering to tourists as well as restaurants and shops that serve visitors from near and far.
Overall, Edgewood’s economy is diverse and continues to develop with each passing year. The combination of its thriving oil industry, agricultural sector and growing tourism industry provide plenty of opportunities for employment within the community as well as economic stability for those who call it home!
Politics in Edgewood, New Mexico
The politics of Edgewood, New Mexico are largely influenced by the state’s two-party system. The Democratic and Republican parties are both active in the town, with many residents belonging to one or the other. As a result, elections often come down to a close competition between the two parties for control of local government.
At the local level, Edgewood is governed by a mayor and four town council members who are elected for four year terms. The mayor serves as the head of government and is responsible for proposing and implementing policies within the community. The council members work with the mayor to develop policies that best serve Edgewood’s citizens.
In addition to local government, Edgewood residents also have representatives at both state and federal levels. State representatives are elected to serve in New Mexico’s House of Representatives while Edgewood’s citizens elect one person to represent them in Congress in Washington D.C..
Overall, politics in Edgewood tend to be moderate as most people agree that it is important to balance economic development with social responsibility. This mindset has resulted in initiatives such as increased funding for public schools, improved infrastructure and stronger environmental regulations that protect both citizens and businesses alike.