The Doña Ana County Historical Society (DACHS) was created in 1963 to preserve the Fort Selden adobe ruins. The original goals of the organization were to encourage a greater appreciation of New Mexico history, especially that of Doña Ana County. The mission later expanded to promote a greater appreciation and build awareness of the historical and cultural heritage of Doña Ana County and southern New Mexico. The home of DACHS is the historic Branigan Cultural Center/Historical Museum in downtown Las Cruces. The monthly newsletter keeps members informed of upcoming programs and activities. At the annual Awards Banquet, the Society recognizes historically significant structures, new structures conforming to regional architectural standards, and individuals who make historical contributions. Some accomplishments of DACHS include: establishing collections that help preserve historical documents and artifacts, sponsoring and supporting preservation of historic buildings, research, education and field trips to historic places, placing interpretive plaques and markers at historic sites, presenting informative regular monthly programs, publishing a monthly newsletter and the annual Southern New Mexico Historical Review, sponsoring historical symposia and symposia papers, supporting and participating with other historical institutions and activities in New Mexico.
From the description of Doña Ana County Historical Society records, 1950 - 1999 (New Mexico State University). WorldCat record id: 669860103
