49ers is New Mexico Tech’s longest-running celebration, with origins dating back to the late 1910s and early 1920s. Though the exact year is debated, archival evidence suggests that the first celebration took place between 1919 and 1921.

• A Gold Pan article (Nov. 4, 1947, p. 6) records that the first 49ers “most probably occurred in 1919.”
• The following year, Gold Pan (Nov. 1948, p. 8) suggested that the Class of 1920 may have organized it.
• Later accounts from Cyril “Cy” Perusek (Gold Pan, Oct. 20, 1941, and Oct. 19, 1942) pointed to 1921, crediting Charles Williams (Class of 1921) as the key promoter.

Because of gaps in the Socorro Chieftain newspaper archives from that period, historians like alumnus Bob Eveleth (Geol. Eng. ’66) note that while we cannot pinpoint with absolute certainty, 1919–1921 remains the most accurate origin window for the first 49ers.

Why “49ers”?
The event was named after the “Forty-Niners” of the 1849 California Gold Rush, reflecting NMT’s original identity as the New Mexico School of Mines. Just as those pioneers sought opportunity and adventure, Tech’s founders embraced exploration, discovery, and resilience.

Paint the M Tradition
One of the most iconic elements of the 49ers is Paint the M. First established in 1914 by students, the giant “M” on Socorro Peak quickly became a lasting symbol of the school. Each fall, students hike the mountain to refresh the letter—a ritual that has now spanned more than a century.

Evolution of the Celebration
From its humble beginnings, 49ers has grown into a multi-day homecoming festival uniting students, alumni, faculty, and the Socorro community.

Historic and modern highlights include:

• Paint the M
• Jurassic Gala & Costume Contest
• Athletic events, including rugby and soccer matches 
• Block Party, comedy night, and live music
• Distinguished Alumni & President’s Medal Banquet
• 49ers Parade
• StorySlam
• Family-friendly events and alumni networking

Spirit and Community
The essence of 49ers has always been to foster school spirit and camaraderie. It provides a space where students and alumni come together and where the Tech community and the City of Socorro unite to celebrate a shared heritage.

As Eveleth has noted in his historical research, “49ers is meant to be a celebration of the school community …a chance for current students to join with returning alumni and the rest of the community to develop school spirit and camaraderie.”

References / Sources
Gold Pan, Oct. 20, 1941, p. 3 and Oct. 19, 1942, p. 1 (articles by Cyril “Cy” Perusek).
Gold Pan, Nov. 4, 1947, p. 6 (the first 49ers “most probably 1919”).
Gold Pan, Nov. 1948, p. 8 (attributed to the Class of 1920).
Notes and correspondence by Bob Eveleth, NMT alumnus and emeritus NM Bureau of Geology historian.