Discover the Single Oldest Capital in the United States

When you think of the oldest capital in the United States, some places that come to mind are most likely Boston, Massachusetts, or Richmond, Virginia. These guesses aren’t wrong because they are two of the oldest capitals in the United States. However, neither of them ranks in the number one spot. In fact, this city is on the opposite end of the country and offers a glimpse into a unique blend of cultures. Keep reading to discover the oldest capital in the United States and learn more about its long history.

What Is the Oldest Capital in the United States?

Santa Fe, New Mexico, was founded in 1610 – more than a century before the United States became a country. Originally, the capital of the “Kingdom of New Mexico” was in Juan Pueblo, 25 miles north of Santa Fe, when it was under the occupation of the Spanish Crown in 1540. But when Don Pedro de Peralta took over he moved the capital to Santa Fe, establishing the single oldest capital in the United States. 

But Santa Fe’s history dates back over 200 years before it was settled by Don Pedro de Peralta in 1610. The land was inhabited by different native groups, particularly the Pueblo people. The dates of their occupation are estimated between 1050 to 1150. However, their settlements in the region were abandoned 200 years before the Spanish arrived. In fact, there is little evidence of their occupation during this time. 

Where Is the Oldest Capital in the United States?

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is set at the bottom of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, a segment of the southern Rocky Mountains and about an hour from Los Alamos. The oldest capital in the United States is also the fourth largest city in the state, and the highest state capital being 7,199 feet above sea level.

The History of Santa Fe

The area was occupied by conquistador Don Francisco Vasques de Coronado under the Spanish Crown in 1540. But in 1598, Don Juan de Onate took control in New Mexico, establishing the first capital in Juan Pueblo. When he retired, Don Pedro de Peralta took over and made Santa Fe the new capital.   

Peralta had big plans for the new city. He began at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains on the original site of the ancient Pueblo ruin, the Ogha Po’oge. This spot became the temporary capital of the “Kingdom of New Mexico.” This area now includes present-day Arizona and New Mexico. 

At the start of the 17th century, Spanish soldiers and officials continued to take over the region and worked to convert the Pueblo peoples who remained in the area. But in 1680, the Puebloans revolted, sent the Spanish soldiers away, and turned most of the buildings to rubble, saving only the Palace of Governors, which is now the oldest American public building. The Pueblo people occupied the city once again until Don Diego Vargas reclaimed the area in 1692. 

However, this would not be the last time the city and its natives would endure violence and war in the region. For example, it was also the first foreign capital taken over by the United States. This happened during the Mexican-American War in 1846 by General Stephen Watts Kearny. Later, New Mexico gained statehood in 1912, and Santa Fe remained the capital city. 

The city has a long history of conquest. But it has also left a legacy of rich history that continues to be preserved due to local conservation efforts. 

Things to Do in the Oldest Capital in the United States 

The culture of Santa Fe is one of a kind. It has been sculpted by generations of different people who lived in the area. You can walk down the streets of downtown Santa Fe and immerse yourself in the city’s history. There are various historic sites and art destinations to tour. You can also hike the trails that look out onto the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. There is no shortage of exciting and educational activities to help you learn more about this incredible city.  

Santa Fe Wildlife 

The oldest capital in the United States has no shortage of wildlife either. While visiting the historical city, you may encounter various birds, reptiles, and other native animals. Some of the most memorable animals in the area include the black bear, chaparral, and the Rio Grande cutthroat trout, all of which represent the state. You may also see rattlesnakes, prairie dogs, eagles, beavers, wild turkeys, and mountain lions during your trip.