For centuries, the prominent cerro, or steep hill, of Tomé served as a significant landmark for travelers along the Camino Real. Settled as early as 1650, the area was abandoned following the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 and remained uninhabited until the Tomé Land Grant was established in 1739. During the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Tomé was the center of government for the Rio Abajo district.