1. The Battle of Glorieta Pass took place on March 17, 1862, during the American Civil War. The battle was fought in New Mexico between Confederate and Union forces, and is credited with helping the Union secure control of the Southwest.

2. In 1885, St. Patrick's Day was celebrated for the first time in Albuquerque with a parade and other festivities. Today, the city hosts the largest St. Patrick's Day parade in the state.

3. On March 17, 1906, the internationally renowned artist Georgia O'Keeffe was born in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. She would later move to New Mexico and create many of her iconic works inspired by the landscapes and cultures of the Southwest.

4. Irish immigrants played a significant role in shaping New Mexico's history, culture, and economy. They worked on the railroad and in mining, and established businesses and churches across the state.

5. In 1992, the New Mexico State Legislature designated the shamrock (a symbol of Ireland) as the official state plant. The legislature also declared that St. Patrick's Day should be observed as a legal holiday in the state, making New Mexico one of only a few states to do so.