In 1924, the Illinois No. 3 well struck oil. That was also the year the State of New Mexico received its first royalty check in the amount of $134.

Last year, in 2023, our state cashed in over $15 billion from this industry. Because of the grit and determination of a few, Artesia continues to produce and contribute to our community, state and country in an enormous way through oil and gas.

The weekend of June 1415, we welcomed guests both near and far into the City of Champions to celebrate 100 years of oil and gas. We acknowledged those who came before us, those today putting the work in, and those to come.

It was truly a Permian Basin celebration!

A dinner hosted by Artesia Chamber of Commerce and Artesia MainStreet included interesting discussions by Alex Epstein, a well-known philosopher and author whose critical thinking skills have fostered great discussions on fossil fuels and energy policy.

Hanson Yates of Santo Petroleum also provided insight into the early and difficult days of Illinois No. 3 and the work of his family and others as they brought this pipe dream to reality!

Our community also enjoyed an oilfield equipment and patriotic parade, where numerous businesses, friends and family drove Main Street in true small-town-America fashion. Other activities included an Oilfield Cook-Off Competition, Oilfield Olympic Games and live music featuring The Wichita, Question de Tiempo, Tell Runyan and Bart Crow.

Special activities were held at the Artesia Public Library and the Ocotillo Performing Arts Center, and the Artesia Aquatic Center let the town in for free! Everyone participated, and I hope everyone truly enjoyed themselves.

One of my favorite conversations happened during this parade, where a gentleman visiting from Michigan said this is how he remembers the “old America.” He was beaming, and he was correct. This weekend felt different to me, too. People cheering each other, kids playing at The Derrick Floor, vendors setting up and doing business, families proud of the way they make their living.

This weekend, we were a small but vibrant town. We walked the streets and visited with both friends and strangers. There was a sense of pride in the streets. If you were unable to come to the 100-year celebration, you truly missed out on something great!

Although we will not be here to celebrate 200 years, maybe we can start a decade celebration?

We can keep this party going!

See you at 110 years of oil and gas in 2034!

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Jon Henry is the mayor of Artesia. Contact him at mayor@


artesianm.gov.)