1. In 1852, the government of New Mexico Territory approved the establishment of the College of Santa Fe. The college was founded by a group of Catholic friars and would eventually become known as the Santa Fe University of Art and Design.

2. On December 9, 1917, the deadliest train wreck in New Mexico history occurred near the town of Santa Fe. A train carrying soldiers from Fort Bliss in Texas derailed and crashed into another train, killing 86 people and injuring countless others.

3. New Mexico established its state flag on December 9, 1925. The flag features the sun symbol of the Zia Pueblo tribe and has a bright yellow background.

4. In 1950, the National Museum of American Indian Arts opened in Santa Fe. The museum showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes from across the United States.

5. On December 9, 2005, New Mexico governor Bill Richardson signed a law granting domestic partnership rights to same-sex couples in the state. The law allowed same-sex couples to have many of the same rights and responsibilities as married couples.