Happy 100th birthday, New Mexico

SANTA FE (KRQE) - It's 100 years and counting as New Mexico celebrates the centennial of the rugged territory becoming the nation's 47th state.

Celebrations are going on all over the Land of Enchantment with one party complete with birthday cake, balloons and mariachis held Friday morning in the Capitol rotunda in Santa Fe.

New Mexico was officially welcomed into the union on Jan. 6, 1912, as President William Howard Taft signed the enabling act in Washington.

Before that New Mexico had been a territory taken by force in the invasion of Mexico by U.S. troops during the Mexican War of 1846-48.

New Mexico is also making postage history as a commemorative centennial stamp was officially issued Friday morning.

The new forever stamp is from an oil painting by New Mexico artist Doug West.

It features a view of the Rio Puerco and volcanic peaks in the rugged wilds about 65 miles northwest of Albuquerque.

Those celebrating this special day said it's not only a time to look back but to look ahead as well.

"We actually get to see where we've been, all the amazing things New Mexicans have done in reference to science and the arts, our diverse culture, how we embrace our diversity, but also to look forward and look at our kids and what amazing things they can do in the future," Gov. Susana Martinez told KRQE News 13 during the Capitol celebration.

Later in the afternoon Martinez will launch a new tourism promotion called "Get the Picture, Travel New Mexico." The promotion includes a photo contest for taking modern photos to match to historic ones with each photo submitted counting as an entry in a contest to win $10,000.

It's similar to the Billy the Kid promotion last summer where people were encouraged to visit destinations throughout New Mexico.

The big birthday events conclude Friday night with a grand centennial ball at the Santa Fe convention center.

It kicks off at 6 p.m.; tickets are $250

Online:  KRQE.com Centennial Page