1902, statehood, territories, Las Cruces; Martin Amador Audio file "Centennial Journeys" radio program 2012 Claude Stephenson, State Folklorist, Department of Cultural Affairs Rick Hendricks, State Historian, State Records Center and Archives Martin Amador's 1902 testimony before Senator Beveridge's Committee on Territories set New Mexico statehood back ten years. Las Cruces residents were not amused.