ORIGIN OF THE NEW MEXICO BARBED WIRE COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION

In 1972, the NMBWCA was born. This was a dream come true for George Perkins, of Albuquerque, the site of the first meeting and the official start-up. About 50 charter members signed on at this time.

The “Wire Barb and Nail” newsletter was first published in 1973 and has been the official publication of the club since.

George Perkins was the first President of the association, serving in this capacity several times. George was also the first editor-publisher of the newsletter. George was very well qualified in this position having been a type-setter and printer for the “Albuquerque Tribune” until his retirement. George passed away in 1980.

The New Mexico Barbed Wire Collectors Association has sponsored a wire show, more often referred to as a collectors show, every year since 1973. Ladies collectibles are especially welcome. The collector shows purposely are scattered about New Mexico each year for maximum exposure. Several times, the New Mexico club has sponsored a show outside of the state. NMBWCA has been honored to host the “Barbed Wire Super Show” various times, and has furnished financial, moral and personnel support to the Antique Barbed Wire Society, the Devil’s Rope Museum in Texas, the Kansas Barbed Wire Museum in Kansas, the Barbed Wire Hall of Fame and the ladies’ Hall of Honor.

Membership is open to any interested persons, not necessarily those collecting just barbed wire. Current membership is approximately 125, including some collectors in Canada and Australia. At present, dues are $12/year or $15/year outside the U.S. New members are most welcomed. Please send your name/address and appropriate fees to:

Nancy Sowle, NMBWCA Sec-Treas
P. O. Box 102
Stanley,  New Mexico 87056

Phone: 505 832 4339
Fax: 505 832 2552
Email: nsowle@wildblue.net