| When Albuquerque was
founded in 1706, its location on El Camino Real, the
Royal Road, contributed to its survival. It was the
principal artery of travel and trade and linked
Albuquerque with both Santa Fe and northern New
Mexico and Chihuahua.
By order of the governor in 1732, the annual
trade convoy from New Mexico to Mexico departed each
November 1, and everyone with goods to export
(primarily wool and wool products) met in
Albuquerque. There the governor provided a military
escort for the journey down El Camino Real. Every
year at that time the village plaza must have been a
lively scene. Albuquerque also contributed some of
its militia members to serve as guards.
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