ABSTRACT
In 1912, the first year of New Mexico statehood, Santa Fe civic debate often centered on the issue of the culturally destructive acts of newcomer developers. The "modern conquistadors," as they were called, had been rapidly extending the boundaries of the ancient city during New Mexico's Territorial period (1848-1912).1 Their concept of culture and architecture dismissed traditional regional built forms with a blatant lack of interest in the unique Southwestern architectural context that had developed in the region over centuries. The new architecture reflected eastern models of architectural substance, the neoclassical and late Victorian styles of the period. The conflict of values between traditional architecture and the new became a major focus of attention for Santa Fe citizens during this critical formative period.
