Meet Volunteer Pedro Martinez!

This month’s volunteer profile features Pedro Martinez.

“My name is Pedro V. Martinez, and about three years ago my wife and I went to a festival at El Rancho de las Golondrinas. When we were leaving, I saw that they had some literature on volunteering. I asked at the admissions booth for some, because I was going to retire and I wanted to do something with my free time.

I like history, especially about New Mexico. My brother got me interested in family history again so I thought this would be a way to learn more about our history. I have learned a lot and am still learning.

I have met a lot of interesting people from all over the world that have come to Las Golondrinas. My brother found out that we have ancestors connected to the Ranch. Both sides of my family are tied to the history of this part of the state.

I like working at all the places on the Ranch and giving guided tours. Most of all I like working at Sierra Village, the Baca House and the Blacksmith’s Shop. Working with all of the other volunteers and staff has been fun, and they are all great friends. I try to do at least one day of every festival, especially Sunday for both the Spring and Harvest Festivals, so that I can participate in the procession of San Isidro. My wife wants to to see if she can volunteer next spring and I am also trying to see if one of my brothers wants to come out to volunteer at the Ranch.

I have a lot of fun and want to continue volunteering as much as I can.”