Signal Hill Signal Hill

DISPATCH | The Sound of a Red Car Passing

Jul 7, 2026 · 16m

Summary

Kids from KMRD Radio Camp in Madrid, New Mexico, take listeners on a walking tour of the small town, interviewing residents about its history as a coal mining community. They explore local landmarks like the historic ballpark, a community garden, and a free box, while also discussing the area's geology and ongoing environmental restoration efforts. The episode highlights the town's unique culture, from its volunteer-run radio station to its annual softball games, capturing the daily life and heritage of this quiet New Mexico valley.

Topics discussed

Introduction to the Madrid, New Mexico tour Interview with Uncle Bill about his parakeets History of Madrid's founding and Joe Huber Coal mining legacy and the old railroad The Madrid ballpark and Memorial Day games Sounds of the park and a puppy encounter Community garden and composting system Volunteer Fire Department chimney cleaning ad Exploring the old church and kids clubhouse Geology, fossils, and the Los Alamos mine Mine safety and arroyo restoration project Observing tamarisk leaf beetles Tour of the Madrid Freebox Archaeology excavation and finding artifacts How birds drink water and closing remarks Credits, KMRD background, and acknowledgments
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