The mighty little burro of New Mexico is the enchanting subject of our December FIRST WEDNESDAY lecture "From Mines to Main Street: The Enduring Legacy of New Mexico's Burros," presented by the Friends of History of the New Mexico History Museum.
Shane with his adopted burro, Comet, from the Wild Horse and Burro program.
Presented by: Shane Weigand, founder of New Mexico Pack Burros.
- Wednesday, December 3, 2025 Noon - 1 pm (MT)
- Presented free on YouTube by Friends of History.
- Link: https://bit.ly/43oM4pV
OVERVIEW:
The mighty little burro has been a major player in New Mexico history from the time of the 16th Century Conquistadors to present day Burro Racing! From the early mining camps and trading trails that relied on their strength, to the quiet resilience they embody in rural communities today. This lecture traces the burro's journey through history, exploring their essential role in shaping New Mexico's economy and culture, their decline with modernization, and their surprising resurgence through heritage races, tourism, and conservation efforts. Looking ahead, burros stand not just as symbols of the state's past, but as unique partners in re-imagining outdoor recreation, cultural preservation, and community connection.
PRESENTER:
Shane Weigand is a public land manager, backcountry expedition leader, and founder of New Mexico Pack Burros. Shane is an entrepreneur dedicated to reviving New Mexico's mining and trail heritage through pack burro races, guided wilderness expeditions, and cultural tourism. He is also the author of the book Backcountry Burro: Your How-To Guide on Packing with Donkeys in the Backcountry and a frequent speaker on leadership, resilience, and the timeless bond between people, public lands, and burros.
