The Los Luceros Historic Site annual sheep shearing event is Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Alcalde. Photo by Tira Howard Photography

Navajo-Churro sheep are featured at the sheep shearing event. Photo by Tira Howard Photography

NMDCA NEWS RELEASE

Los Luceros Historic Site is hosting its annual Sheep Shearing Day Sunday, April 12 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in conjunction with Northern Rio Grande National Heritage Area’s Cultures and Creators festival. Location is 253 County Rd 41, Alcalde.

Visitors can watch shearer Kerry Mower use traditional double-bow shears to remove wool from the site’s Navajo-Churro sheep beginning at 9 a.m. As the wool is sheared, visitors can help clean and skirt the wool and learn from site staff about the importance of these sheep in New Mexico. Bags of fleece will be available for a small donation.

The event is held in conjunction with the Northern Rio Grande National Heritage Area’s Cultures and Creators festival, which includes an art exhibition and hands-on activities such as woodcarving, paper making, and loom weaving. Food trucks and vendors will be on site.

Learn more about Cultures and Creators Festival online at culturesandcreators.com. Sheep Shearing Day and Cultures and Creators are included with admission of $7 per adult and free to children 16 and younger, NM disabled veterans, NM foster families, MNMF members, and Amigos members.

Navajo-Churro sheep are a unique and endangered breed, descended from sheep brought to New Mexico by the Spanish before 1600 AD. The Diné (Navajo) bred the sheep for their unique wool that is perfect for weaving, thereby creating the unique species they call “The First” or “The True Sheep.” Los Luceros Historic Site is dedicated to celebrating the history and heritage of these animals.