Fort Selden Historic Site in Radium Springs is cultivating the original New Mexico No. 9 chile, making it the only place in New Mexico to grow this special variety this year. This historically bred chile, provided by the Chile Institute, reconnects visitors with the state’s rich agricultural heritage.
Fort Selden to grow special chile from Chile Institute

Key Takeaways:
- Fort Selden is cultivating the original New Mexico No. 9 chile variety.
- It’s the only place in New Mexico growing this special chile this year.
- The New Mexico No. 9 is a historically bred and cultivated variety.
- Seeds were provided by the Chile Institute.
- This initiative connects visitors with New Mexico’s agricultural heritage.
Fort Selden Cultivates a Piece of Chile History
Fort Selden Historic Site in Radium Springs is bringing history back to life by cultivating the original New Mexico No. 9 chile in its garden this year. This unique endeavor makes it the only place in New Mexico growing this special chile variety in 2025.
A Historically Bred Variety
The New Mexico No. 9 chile holds a significant place in the state’s agricultural history. As a historically bred and cultivated variety, it represents early efforts to standardize chile cultivation in the region. The original seeds have been carefully preserved and are now being nurtured at Fort Selden.
Collaboration with the Chile Institute
This special cultivation is made possible through collaboration with the Chile Institute. The institute provided Fort Selden with seeds of the original New Mexico No. 9, marking a significant revival of this historic chile. Their partnership underscores a shared commitment to preserving New Mexico’s unique agricultural legacy.
Exclusive Cultivation in New Mexico
By growing the New Mexico No. 9 chile, Fort Selden sets itself apart as the only location in the state to nurture this variety this year. This exclusivity adds a unique attraction for both history enthusiasts and chile aficionados visiting the historic site.
Connecting Visitors to Agricultural Heritage
The chile-growing initiative at Fort Selden enriches the visitor experience by connecting them with the rich agricultural heritage of New Mexico. Guests can witness firsthand the cultivation of a chile variety that played a pivotal role in the state’s farming history.
An Invitation to Experience History
Fort Selden’s effort to revive the New Mexico No. 9 chile offers a tangible link to the past. Visitors are invited to explore the historic site and discover how this humble chile variety helped shape the agricultural landscape of New Mexico.