Santa Fe, Modern Mexico – A new walking tour is offering a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden history, exploring its connections to the Manhattan Project and the shadowy world of Cold War espionage. Led by Dan Kitrell, a docent with Friends of History, the “Assassins, Spies & the Manhattan Project” tour delves into the little-known stories of scientists, spies and betrayals that unfolded in the New Mexico capital during World War II and beyond. The two-hour, one-mile tour is gaining attention for its focus on verified facts and genuine anecdotes, offering a compelling narrative of a critical period in American history.
Kitrell, speaking on KSFR radio on February 20, 2026, described the tour as a journey through the backrooms and along the routes used by key figures involved in the race to develop the atomic bomb. The interview highlighted the tour’s emphasis on uncovering the human side of this dangerous era.
The tour begins by retracing the steps of scientists arriving in Santa Fe, where they were processed before being transported “up the hill” to the secret laboratory at Los Alamos. Participants will visit the office where gate passes were issued and transportation arranged, gaining insight into the logistical challenges of building a city dedicated to top-secret research. The tour also stops near the bridge where Klaus Fuchs, a German physicist, met with American chemist Harry Gold in 1945 to exchange atomic secrets stolen from Los Alamos, a pivotal moment in the unfolding Cold War. Friends of History emphasizes that all stories shared on the tour are based on true events and verified facts.
Uncovering a Network of Espionage
Beyond the story of Fuchs and Gold, the tour explores the case of Edward Lee Howard, a former CIA operative who turned Soviet informer. Tour participants will walk a portion of the route Howard took during his escape to Moscow in 1985, learning about the spycraft techniques used to coordinate meetings, confirm identities, and transfer information during both the Manhattan Project and the Cold War. Kitrell’s expertise, honed through training under the auspices of the New Mexico History Museum, provides a unique perspective on these complex operations.
The tour isn’t simply a recitation of historical events; it aims to illuminate the methods employed by spies and their couriers. According to the Friends of History website, the tour delves into the practical techniques used to maintain secrecy and facilitate communication in a time of heightened paranoia and suspicion. This focus on the “how” of espionage, rather than just the “who,” sets the tour apart.
Supporting Historical Preservation Through Tourism
The “Assassins, Spies & the Manhattan Project” walking tour is offered twice a month, from April through November, at 10:45 AM on select dates. Reservations and ticket purchases can be made through the Friends of History website. Tickets support the educational programs and public exhibitions of the New Mexico History Museum. The docents, like Kitrell, volunteer their time and expertise, contributing to the preservation and interpretation of Santa Fe’s rich history.
The tour’s two-hour duration allows for a comprehensive exploration of the key locations and stories, whereas the one-mile walking distance makes it accessible to a wide range of participants. The Friends of History emphasizes the experience is designed to be both informative and engaging, bringing to life a critical and often overlooked chapter in American history.
A Docent’s Passion for Local History
Dan Kitrell’s passion for the subject matter is evident in his detailed presentation and commitment to accuracy. His recent appearance on KSFR radio provided a preview of the tour’s content and highlighted his dedication to uncovering the lesser-known aspects of Santa Fe’s role in the Manhattan Project. The tour benefits from Kitrell’s deep understanding of the historical context and his ability to connect with audiences.
The tour is presented as more than just a historical recounting; it’s an opportunity to connect with the human stories behind the headlines. Vintage images and anecdotes are incorporated to provide a more personal and relatable experience, reminding participants of the stakes involved and the sacrifices made during this pivotal period.
The next scheduled tour dates are available on the Friends of History website, with tours running through November. Those interested in learning more about Santa Fe’s role in the Manhattan Project and the world of Cold War espionage are encouraged to book a spot and experience this unique walking tour.
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