Founded in 1912, Artesia, New Mexico is a young town. Surrounded by many municipalities around the state which date back hundreds of years (Santa Fe registers as one of the oldest capitals in the United States) Artesia is a recent development. 

 

What’s unique about Artesia in it’s youthful standing is that there are families in town who have been here since its inception. With a significant population entrenched in the history of the place, what is it like to be from here? 

 

Longtime residents explain that for them, Artesia is a close-knit community. It’s impossible to go to the grocery store or to community events without running into half a dozen folks you’ve known all of your life or their children or grandchildren. Artesia is a network of folks who all know one another and the entire history of one another’s lives. For those who have grown up here, it’s a blessing and a curse to know one another so well. At one level, the bonds of camaraderie and neighborly spirit run strong. If a relative passes, a baby is born, or tragedy occurs, long term residents mobilize support at a speed which is truly miraculous. Meal trains, cards, folks to sit by your side or help complete chores seem to organize out of thin air. 

 

The drawback to such close-knit communities is that they become difficult for newcomers to become part of the town. They do not feel heard and have no idea where to look for support.  Word travels fast by word of mouth in small communities, and if you’re not well connected through people that you’ve known all of your life and who know you as well, then you will miss opportunities and important conversations that affect the city and the county.