Las Cruces underwent a significant transformation with the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad in 1881, leading to the development of the Alameda District, a neighborhood situated west of Main Street. The first paved street, Depot Street, was later renamed Las Cruces Street, which led to the downtown area and the train station. The Women's Improvement Association opened Pioneer Women's Park in 1898 since there was a scarcity of play areas for children. It provided a safe and fun environment that is still cherished by the community today. The Alameda District, which was established as a residential area for the wealthier population of Las Cruces, such as merchants, lawyers, doctors, and other affluent individuals during settlement, currently houses nearly 200 homes that hold significant historical value.

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A stroll along Las Cruces Street allows you to see residences of prominent personalities such as Numa Frenger's adobe, a Spanish-Pueblo-Revival-style home, and Captain Thomas Branigan's house, an Indian scout and Mescalero Apache agent. The Alameda District's homes are diverse in architecture, from Tudor Revival and California Mission to Queen Anne and Territorial styles. Alma d'Arte Charter School, the Branigan Cultural Center, the Las Cruces Museum of Art, and the Las Cruces Railroad Museum are all accessible across Water Street at Court. 

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The Alameda Historic District is a historic gem that should be noticed by those interested in the history of Las Cruces. From the first paved street to the development of Pioneer Women's Park and the construction of various architectural styles, the district represents Las Cruces's transformation from the arrival of the Santa Fe Railroad to the present day.