Rocky Hildebrand raises the flag, as Bill Kupke salutesPhotos by Mary Alice Murphy

The Fort Bayard Historic Preservation Society hosted a 152nd birthday celebration for the fort on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2018. The festivities opened with a flag raising on the former parade ground. After the flag was flying, tours of the fort were given to those interested. The first presentation, attended by about 50 people, took place at 10:30: "Ranchers and the Feeding of Fort Bayard" by Deily Crumbly, followed by birthday cake. A barbecue dinner served 45 at 6:30 p.m. and was followed by "The West: Singing Its Story" by Ralph Estes, sponsored by the New Mexico Humanities Council.