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Committee / Mills Inauguration / Territory of New Mexico / 1850 / March 1, 1910
Committee / Mills Inauguration / Territory of New Mexico / 1850 / March 1, 1910
Committee / Mills Inauguration / Territory of New Mexico / 1850 / March 1, 1910

Committee / Mills Inauguration / Territory of New Mexico / 1850 / March 1, 1910

Manufacturer / Maker (Newark, New Jersey, active 1892 - 1959)
Date1910
Mediummetal, satin, celluloid
Dimensions3 × 1 1/2 in. (7.6 × 3.8 cm)
ClassificationsDocumentary Artifact
Credit LineAlbuquerque Museum, gift of David H. Kelsey
Object numberPC2006.13.203
DescriptionThis vertically oriented badge commemorates the inauguration of Governor William J. Mills of the New Mexico Territory on March 1, 1910. The badge consists of three distinct elements: an ornate metal nameplate, a silk ribbon, and a round celluloid button. At the top, a gold-toned metal bar with intricate detailing holds a cream-colored insert with the word "COMMITTEE" in bold blue lettering, indicating the wearer’s role in the event’s organization. A blue silk ribbon extends downward. Suspended from the ribbon is a round celluloid button framed in a gold-toned metal rim. The button bears a sepia-toned imprint of the territorial seal of New Mexico, which features an eagle with outstretched wings protecting a smaller bird, a symbol of U.S. sovereignty over the former Spanish and Mexican territory. Surrounding the seal, the text reads "MILLS INAUGURATION" at the top and "TERRITORY OF NEW MEXICO – MARCH 1ST, 1910" at the bottom, with the founding year 1850 of the New Mexico Territory also inscribed. This badge marks a significant moment in New Mexico’s political history—the inauguration of William J. Mills as the last governor of the New Mexico Territory. Mills served from 1910 until New Mexico achieved statehood in 1912. His administration helped guide the region through its final territorial years, setting the stage for its transition into the 47th U.S. state.
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