News
November 30, 2025
'The Well Country': 'New Mexican' covered state's history as haven for tuberculosis patients
Once a disease that brought patients flocking to New Mexico by the thousands, tuberculosis remains a top global killer.
New Mexico, affectionately known as "The Well Country," holds a unique and often overlooked chapter in its history – its role as a haven for tuberculosis (TB) patients. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, before the advent of effective antibiotics, New Mexico's dry, sunny climate was widely believed to offer a cure, or at least significant relief, for those suffering from the dreaded disease.
Thousands of individuals, desperately seeking a respite from the illness that was ravaging their bodies, journeyed to New Mexico. They came from all walks of life, lured by the promise of clean air and sunshine, hoping to find a cure in the high desert. Sanatoriums, specially designed hospitals for TB patients, sprung up across the state, particularly in areas like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, catering to the influx of people seeking treatment.
These institutions, often perched on hillsides to maximize sunlight exposure, became miniature communities. Patients spent their days resting outdoors, engaging in light activities, and adhering to strict diets believed to aid their recovery. While some found improvement in their condition, others succumbed to the disease, far from their homes and loved ones.
The arrival of these "lungers," as they were sometimes called, profoundly impacted New Mexico's culture and economy. The influx of people brought new ideas and perspectives, contributing to the state's artistic and intellectual growth. However, it also presented challenges, including the strain on resources and the social stigma associated with the disease.
While the discovery of effective antibiotics in the mid-20th century drastically reduced the incidence of TB in developed countries, the disease remains a significant global health threat. Millions are still affected each year, primarily in developing nations. The story of New Mexico as a sanctuary for TB patients serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of infectious diseases and the importance of ongoing research and public health efforts to combat them. It also highlights a unique period in New Mexico's history, forever shaping its identity as "The Well Country," a place where hope and healing once converged under the vast, clear skies.
Thousands of individuals, desperately seeking a respite from the illness that was ravaging their bodies, journeyed to New Mexico. They came from all walks of life, lured by the promise of clean air and sunshine, hoping to find a cure in the high desert. Sanatoriums, specially designed hospitals for TB patients, sprung up across the state, particularly in areas like Albuquerque and Santa Fe, catering to the influx of people seeking treatment.
These institutions, often perched on hillsides to maximize sunlight exposure, became miniature communities. Patients spent their days resting outdoors, engaging in light activities, and adhering to strict diets believed to aid their recovery. While some found improvement in their condition, others succumbed to the disease, far from their homes and loved ones.
The arrival of these "lungers," as they were sometimes called, profoundly impacted New Mexico's culture and economy. The influx of people brought new ideas and perspectives, contributing to the state's artistic and intellectual growth. However, it also presented challenges, including the strain on resources and the social stigma associated with the disease.
While the discovery of effective antibiotics in the mid-20th century drastically reduced the incidence of TB in developed countries, the disease remains a significant global health threat. Millions are still affected each year, primarily in developing nations. The story of New Mexico as a sanctuary for TB patients serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of infectious diseases and the importance of ongoing research and public health efforts to combat them. It also highlights a unique period in New Mexico's history, forever shaping its identity as "The Well Country," a place where hope and healing once converged under the vast, clear skies.
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Politics