The Nicolas Ortiz III Estate along with the Antonio Jose Ortiz Estate mark the remaining portions of the extensive eighteenth-century estate of Nicolás Ortiz III and his son Antonio José Ortiz. Arriving in New Mexico during the reconquest of Santa Fe in 1693, Captain Nicolás Ortiz III oversaw the Presidio of Santa Fe until his death in a clash with Comanche warriors in 1769. Nicolas III’s son Antonio José Ortiz supported the construction of religious structures in Santa Fe including the Rosario Chapel, the Santuario de Guadalupe, and the restoration of La Parroquia (parish church) of St. Francis and the Chapel of La Conquistadora. Today, the Hilton Hotel chain owns the eastern Ortiz property, which is presently used for its Ortiz restaurant. Similarly, the western Ortiz property is occupied by professional offices and it is no longer identifiable as a home. Because of their historical significance, the City of Santa Fe saved both Ortiz houses by designating a zoning ordinance prohibiting their demolition.
From Old Santa Fe Today, 5th edition by Audra Bellmore with photographs by Simone Frances.