Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument was created in November 1909 to safeguard what is now known as the Gran Quivira Unit of the park. Initially named Gran Quivira National Monument, it aimed to protect the San Buenaventura Mission and later expanded in 1919 to include the nearby pueblo mounds.
Nearly 24 years after its establishment, Gran Quivira welcomed its first employee, WH "Doc" Smith, a local physician who took on the role of Custodian. Earning just 50 cents a day, Smith worked hard to make the park known, leading tours, constructing fences, installing septic systems, helping with archaeological digs, and managing treasure hunters. He retired in 1936, leaving behind a legacy of protection at Gran Quivira that would motivate all future Superintendents.
Doc Smith is just one of the many fascinating figures in the history of Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument. To learn more about individuals from various eras of the Salinas Pueblo Missions' history, check out the links below.
