[4] Near the town of Algodones lies a narrow pass known as La Angostura.

The pass was important for trade along the Camino Real, and was the site of fortifications dating from the early 17th century to control movement along the road.

The village of Algodones developed in the 18th century when continuing efforts by the Spanish settlers to control the nearby Rio Grande river fords and pass through the valley.

[5] As of the census[7] of 2000, there were 688 people, 236 households, and 182 families residing in the CDP.

14.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.