August in an auspicious month in New Mexico history. In numerology the number eight signifies the power to do or be. It also means the power for success, wealth, or material gain.
August 8, 1680
During the latter part of the 17th century the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 shaped the history of New Mexico. Led by the medicine man Po’pay, of Ohkay Owingeh, the pueblos successfully drove the Spanish colonists out of New Mexico for twelve years. The start of the revolt occurred on August 8, 1680. That day Juan Cristobal Herrera became the first Spaniard killed by the Indians near Tesuque Pueblo. Without a doubt, the Pueblo Revolt is the most historically significant event in New Mexico’s history.
August 9,1846
The raising of the U.S. flag atop the Palace of the Governors occurred on the morning of August 9, 1846 when Gen. Stephen Kearny declared it for the American government. Kearny and his army of 2,500, including 500 men from the Mormon battalion, took hold of the capitol city. The Mormon Battalion is the only religious based platoon in U.S. history. Fort Marcy served as a military outpost through the end of the 19th century. Kearny and his men built the fort when they arrived. It served as a military outpost through the end of the 19th century.
August 6 & 9, 1945
The bombing of Hiroshima occurred on August 6, 1945. Three days later Nagasaki was bombed on August 9th. Santa Fe was home to the men and women who created the first atomic bomb during World War II. Located on Sena Plaza at 109 East Palace Avenue was the first stop for the scientists and military personnel prior to heading up to “the Hill,” in Los Alamos, 34 miles north of Santa Fe. The Santa Fe P.O. Box 1663 was the official address for those working on the Manhattan Project. The birth certificates for children born during that era in Los Alamos had the place of birth listed as PO Box 1663.
August 18, 1963
Igor Stravinsky is considered one of the greatest composers of the 20th century. The Russian maestro accepted an invitation to come to Santa Fe. His opera “The Rake Progress,” premiered in the 1957 inaugural season. Stravinsky performed “Mass” at St. Francis Cathedral on August 18, 1963, dedicating the performance to his friend, Pope John XXIII. Upon conclusion of the performance Stravinsky received the Papal Knighthood of Saint Sylvester. The honor had been conferred upon him by the Pope, shortly before his death. That was Stravinsky’s last performance in Santa Fe bringing his connection to the opera and his friendship with the Pope full circle in the City of Holy Faith.