1. In 1861, the New Mexico Territory became a state of the Confederacy. This decision was made by a majority vote of the territorial legislature, and it caused much controversy among the people of New Mexico.

2. On February 1, 1901, the first oil well in New Mexico was drilled by the Charles E. Kelly Oil Company. This well, located in the southeastern part of the state, produced over 4,000 barrels of oil per day, making it one of the richest oil deposits in the West.

3. In 1923, the influential artist Georgia O'Keeffe moved to New Mexico, where she would spend the rest of her life. Over the years, O'Keeffe's work would become synonymous with the stark beauty of the desert landscape, and she remains one of the most celebrated artists in New Mexican history.

4. February 1, 1950 marked the first day that KOB-TV, the first television station in New Mexico, went on the air. Operating out of Albuquerque, KOB-TV became a major player in the news and entertainment industry over the next few decades.

5. On February 1, 1993, a major snowstorm hit the state of New Mexico, dumping over 20 inches of snow in some areas. The storm caused severe disruptions to transportation and commerce, and it remains one of the most significant weather events in New Mexican history.