T R A I L S
Extraordinary
OUTDOOR
ADVENTURES beckon from a climate that screams “DO IT NOW!”
Natural and man-made
ATTRACTIONS
create harmony for America’s
BEST
Communities
Scenic Byways and
GHOST TOWNS open the door to Old West experiences
THE COMMUNITIES OF SILVER CITY, DEMING, LAS CRUCES, TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, SOCORRO, LORDSBURG, RESERVE
Old West Country FILL THE MISSING PAGES OF YOUR LIFE WITH THE ARTS, THE RUGGED beauty and the intrigue of southwest New Mexico. Discover why the nation chooses the communities of Old West Country to conduct business, seek the arts, meander through history, develop harmony with Mother Nature and provide meaningful retirement. The 1800’s spirit of discovery and excitement still pervades the lifestyles of New Mexico’s Southwest from its high tech plateaus to its historic rivers. Ghost towns, forts and Indian ruins help maintain the focus on what’s ahead and early missions provide a vision for survival. New Mexico’s largest recreational lakes and bird sanctuaries and some of its best mountain streams, trails, wilderness areas and scenic byways help create an enticing quality of life for visitors and residents alike. People of all ages seeking a thoughtful stroll along a peaceful river or challenging mountain trails for hiking and biking find Old West Country offers it all. The state’s largest vineyards and its world famous chile contribute to the best darn Mexican food and steak dinners around. Museums, galleries and theater highlight the region’s cultural scene. Come watch herons settle in for the night, step back in time at old plazas and stage stops, participate in unique fiestas and events or just stop by and be neighborly. You will always find a welcome sign and a place to tie your horse in Old West Country. It is, indeed, where it all began.
opposite: The San Lorenzo Mission just off NM 152 between Silver City and Truth or Consequences is one of three missions built in the picturesque Mimbres River Valley in 1899. Old West Country photos ©Joseph Burgess
OLD WEST COUNTRY
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Old West T R A I L S Published exclusively for Old West Country as a supplement to New Mexico Traveler
Old West Country
P.O. Box 884 • Silver City, NM 88062 1-800-290-8330 Website: www.oldwestcountry.com E-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com President Sally Haigler
Socorro Chamber of Commerce
Vice-President Andres Giron
Catron County Chamber of Commerce
Secretary-Treasurer Ginnie Jones
T or C and Sierra Chamber of Commerce
Executive Director Keith LeMay
Serving the communities of: Deming 800 East Pine • Deming, NM 88031 1-800-848-4955 www.demingchamber.com e-mail: chamber@zianet.com
Las Cruces 211 N. Water Street • Las Cruces, NM 88001 1-800-FIESTAS • 505-541-2444
e-mail: cvb@lascruces.org • www.lascrucescvb.org
Lordsburg 117 East 2nd Street • Lordsburg, NM 88045 505-542-9864 www.lordsburghidalgocounty.org/chamber lordsburgcoc@aznex.net
Reserve/Glenwood P.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830 www.catroncounty.org/chamber chambersec@catroncounty.org
P.O. Box 183 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2711 www.glenwoodnewmexico.com e-mail: glenwoodcoc@gilanet.com
Silver City 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org e-mail: info@silvercity.org
Socorro 101 Plaza • P.O. Box 743 • Socorro, NM 87801 505-835-0424 Old West Trails is published annually by: Zia Publishing Corp. with offices at: 611 N. Hudson Silver City, NM 88061 Phone: 505-956-1560 Fax: 505-956-1580 e-mail: info@ziapublishing.com www.ziapublishing.com President & Managing Director Terri Menges Vice President & Editor In Chief Joseph Burgess Staff Accountant Arlyn Cooley Designers Terri Menges Karen Porter Contributing Writers Joseph Burgess Sandy L. Broadbent Copy Editors Jim Madsen Photography Joseph Burgess Advertising Sales Mary-Catherine Meek
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2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
Database Administrator Graham Dodd Production Coordinator LeAnne Knudsen Production Assistant Bobby Ray Holroyd, Jr. Distribution Keith LeMay Old West Trails is a supplement to NewMexico Traveler and is manufactured and printed in the United States of America. ©Zia Publishing Corp. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is prohibited. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy in the information provided. The publisher assumes no responsibility or liability for errors, changes or omissions.
www.oldwestcountry.com
www.socorro-nm.com e-mail: chamber@socorro-nm.com
Truth or Consequences P.O. Box 31 • Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 1-800-831-9487 505-894-3536 www.truthorconsequencesnm.net cofc@riolink.com
Elephant Butte P.O. Box 1355 • Elephant Butte, NM 87935 (505) 744-4708 ebchamber@zianet.com
Southwest Region 2 Mike Trumbull Chair, Silver City George Pintar Vice-Chair, Deming Mary Gillard Secretary, Socorro Other region members: Stella Dante Las Cruces Durelle Freeman Glenwood Susan LaFont Elephant Butte Keith LeMay Silver City Pansy McDonald Lordsburg ABOUT OUR COVER: The Catwalk National Recreation Trail near Glenwood blends the rugged beauty of the nation’s first wilderness with the historic mining methods of the 1800s. A paved road leads to the lower canyon picnic grounds and catwalk area with a hiking/horseback trail continuing deep into the Gila Wilderness. Mining and railroad ghost towns and cavalry forts are scattered throughout Southwest New Mexico. Photo by Joe Burgess.
G R E AT EACH DAY IS A N EW EXPE R I E NCE
OUTDOORS EXTRAORDINARY ADVENTURES LIE AT THE BACK DOOR OF EVERY community in southwest New Mexico. The dry, moderate climate makes each day an opportunity for a new experience. Observe and photograph one of nature’s late fall extravaganzas at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro as thousands of migratory birds stop for the night. Bird watching is abundant in most Old West communities with guidance available from private groups like The Nature Conservancy in Silver City. Hike the trails of the region’s three national forests and two major wilderness areas. National Recreation areas and state parks also penetrate both the rugged desert mountains and forests throughout the region. A grueling 5-day bicycle stage race, the annual Tour of the Gila, draws top international cyclists annually to Silver City. The rugged terrain of Old West Country also offers mountain biking opportunities in most communities. Rockhounds scour the hills and historic mining camps for specimens throughout the region. The Mineral Museum in Socorro, Rockhound State Park at Deming and the Chino open pit mine near Silver City offer intriguing insights into Old West geology. Bass and cat fishing doesn’t get any better than the warm water lakes along the Rio Grande. Rainbow trout are the challenge of the mountain lakes and streams throughout the Gila and Apache National Forests. Fishing, jet skiing, parasailing, scuba…it’s all available at Elephant Butte Lake State Park near Truth or Consequences. Pull out your electric motorboats for the smaller mountain lakes.
BIRDING
Late fall migratory birds provide spectacular bird watching and photo opportunities at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro. The Rio Grande and Gila River systems and all mountain regions are host to year-round birding. Hummingbirds provide a real treat in warmer months in the Lake Roberts and Gila Cliff Dwelling areas. 505-388-8201
HIKING
Apache, Cibola and Gila National Forest personnel maintain trail networks throughout the vast mountain region of Old West Country. Specific hiking areas include Aguirre Springs National Recreation Area at Las Cruces, Catwalk National Recreation Trail at Glenwood and segments of the Continental Divide Trail around Silver City. 505-388-8201
BIKING
Mountain biking roads and trails are scattered throughout Old West Country, while the sanctioned Tour of the Gila 5-day bicycle stage race is held annually in Silver City. Check with local visitors centers for recommendations.
ROCKHOUNDING opposite: The Gila River parallels NM 15 near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. above, inset: Migratory birds make stops along Old West rivers and lakes and congregate by the thousands at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. above, right: Water sporting, beach and camping activities make Elephant Butte Lake State Park one of New Mexico’s major attractions. below: Extensive hiking and biking trails are found throughout the Gila National Forest.
Gem and mineral activity is found throughout southwest New Mexico. Specific points of interest include the Mineral Museum at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro, Rockhound State Park near Deming and the Chino open pit copper mine near Silver City. 505-388-8201
FISHING
Among the state’s major fishing waters are Elephant Butte and Caballo Lakes on the Rio Grande. Mountain lakes and streams are scattered throughout the Gila and Apache National Forests, including Lake Roberts, Bear Canyon Lake, Bill Evans Lake, Snow Lake, Quemado Lake and Wall Lake. http://www.state.nm.us/or 505-827-7911.
Photo by Jackie Blurton
BOATING/WATER SPORTS
Water skiing, scuba diving, jet skiing, sailing, parasailing and much more are typical activities at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. At most of the smaller mountain lakes, only electric powered motorboats are allowed. GREAT OUTDOORS
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above: Lake Roberts in the Gila National Forest can be accessed from Silver City, Deming and Truth or Consequences. far left, middle: The rugged Organ Mountains above Las Cruces include hiking trails in the Dripping Springs Natural Area on the west side and the Aguirre Springs National Recreation Area on the east side. far left, bottom: Walking and biking paths parallel the Rio Grande in Las Cruces with striking sunsets over Picacho Peak and sunrises over the Organ Mountains. left: Repelling cliffs, shown here at a site below Lordsburg, and rock climbing throughout the region is a popular sporting activity. opposite: The metal walkways at the lower end of The Catwalk National Recreation Trail were originally constructed to facilitate gold-mining and milling operations.
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2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com
RICH IN KE E PI NG TH E SPI R IT OF TH E 1800’s ALIVE
H I STO RY OLD WEST COUNTRY ENJOYED AN ENERGETIC and lively history as it moved quickly through the eras of the ancient native hunting, gathering and farming cultures; the Spanish colonizers; Mexican, Apache and American turf conflicts; and the rough and tumble days of early mining and ranching camps. Peoples of the Mogollon culture lived along the mountain streams of Old West Country from about 200 B.C. to between 1100 and 1300 A.D. They developed pit houses and later began inhabiting cliff dwellings. The painted pottery of the Mimbres group evolved from geometric designs to figures that were occasionally part animal, part human. Large collections are housed in Silver City and Deming. The nomadic Apaches roamed most of the region when the Spanish explorers began arriving in the late 1500’s. The Spanish established the Camino Real through Las Cruces, Truth or Consequences, Socorro and on to Sante Fe. As Mexico began mining copper in the Silver City area, conflicts with the Apaches increased. With the arrival of American settlers, cavalry forts were established on the trade routes and near the mines and included Ft. Seldon near Las Cruces and Ft. Bayard near Silver City. The westward moving settlers utilized the Butterfield Trail that passed through Las Cruces, Deming, Lordsburg and on to California. A couple of noteworthy Old West characters included Billy the Kid, who was raised in Silver City and jailed in Mesilla before moving on to the Lincoln County Wars, and Pancho Villa, who attacked the United States at Columbus, south of Deming.
above: A beautiful example of Mimbres pottery, as seen at the Western New Mexico University Museum. right from top: Copper mining at Santa Rita was initiated by a Spanish soldier in 1803 and was converted to open pit mining methods in the early 1900’s. Mexican folk dancers in Las Cruces exhibit a part of Old West heritage that is performed throughout the region at fiestas and events. In Socorro, a memorial near the plaza honors veterans lost in the Vietnam War. A statue at Ft. Bayard near Silver City depicts the Buffalo Soldiers garrisoned there in the 1800’s. Cattle ranching instituted by early settlers, continues to be a major industry throughout Old West Country. RICH IN HISTORY
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Socorro Spanish history and space age technology
A historic community with strong ties to the future.
AFTER CENTURIES
OF CATERING TO WEARY TRAVELERS and migratory birds, Socorro has now evolved into a center for space technology. Clinging to its Spanish and Mexican heritage while plunging into the mysteries of deep space, Socorro maintains the appearance of a quiet village focused on nature, the arts and excellent food. Capturing sounds from deep space, the National Radio Astronomy Observatory operates the Very Large Array 52 miles west of Socorro. The VLA complex consists of 27 dish-shaped antennas spread along three 13-mile legs on the high Plains of St. Agustine. Support personnel based in a facility on the Socorro campus of New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology churn through the volumes of data received from distant systems. The opposite end of the spectrum is anchored by San Miguel Mission, dating back to 1615. Spanish colonists had the church built on the trade route between Mexico City and Santa Fe. About ten miles down river from Socorro, the 57,000-acre Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge draws thousands of visitors in late fall to observe migrating birds. Honking Snow Geese and graceful herons and cranes are observed and filmed from unobtrusive decks along the edges of shallow marshlands. The Mineral Museum on the university campus houses the state's largest mineral collections with over 10,000 specimens. Annual celebrations bring back the rough and tumble days of early mining. above: Under Spanish rule, San Miguel Mission was established on El Camino Real, the trade route to Santa Fe. The original ruins below San Miguel Parish date back to 1615. opposite, top: Sandhill cranes stop to feed at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. opposite, bottom: Twenty seven dish-shaped antennas on 13 mile legs make up the Very Large Array of radio telescopes.
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2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com
in
OLD WEST try Coun
EVENTS 7 20-22 21 Apr 2-3 3 10 May 1-2 1 8-9 21-22 22 Jun 6-12
Feb
July Aug Sep
Oct
Nov
4 9-11 7 14 2-5 4 18-19 24-26 2 2 2-3 5-10 8-9 9 22-23 22-23 6 6-7 16-21 18-21 27-28 TBA
Community Arts Party. 835-5688 Civil War Re-enactment. 835-0412 Science Olympiad. 835-5678 NM State Science Fair. 835-5678 Trinity Site open to public. 505-479-6124 Beautification Plant Sale. “M” Mountain AYSO Soccer Tourn. 835-0189 Cinco de Mayo. 835-0424 Socorro Mother’s Day Pow Wow. 835-0424 Women of the West History Trail. 835-1436 Women of the West Parade. 835-1436 Conrad Hilton Open Golf Tournament. TBA Relay for Life. 835-0166 or 835-1768 Concerts and Fireworks. At NM Tech Campus Magdalena Old Timers Reunion. 505-854-2139 State Junior Miss. 835-1774 7th Ann. Chile Harvest Triathlon. 838-1610 Socorro County Fair & Rodeo. 835-2346 Socorro County Fair Parade. 835-0424 Socorro Fat Tire Fiesta. 8381610 San Miguel Fiesta. 835-2891 Trinity Site open to public. 505-479-6124 Octoberfest. At Hammel Museum Chile Proppers. 835-4568 11th Ann. Enchanted Skies Star Party. 835-0424 Alamo Indian Days. 854-2635 ext. 1100. Sevilleta & La Joya open house. 505-864-4021 82nd Annual 49ers Celebration. 835-5525 Socorro Fest. 935-0424 Fort Craig 150th Anniversary. 835-0412 15th Annual Mineral Symposium. 835-5140 17th Annual Festival of the Cranes. 835-2077 Garcia Opera House Crafts Fair. 835-0424 Socorro Balloon Rally. 835-0424 Candy Cane Electric Light Parade. 835-0424
• Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge • Championship Golf Course • Ghost Towns • NRAO Very Large Array Radio Telescope • Historic District • El Camino Real International Heritage Center Make your next vacation a trip to Socorro in Old West Country... where it all began!.
Socorro County CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.oldwestcountry.com
101 Plaza • P.O. Box 743 • Socorro, NM 87801 505-835-0424 www.socorro-nm.com
LOCATION Socorro is located at the junction of 1-25 and US 60 near Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. TOUR ROUTE Travel 108 miles west on US 60 through the VLA to Quemado; 41 miles south on NM 32 past Quemado Lake to Apache Creek; 12 miles west on NM 12 to Reserve and another 36 miles south on US 180 to Glenwood, with a side trip on NM 159 to Mogollon. MORE INFORMATION Socorro Chamber of Commerce (505) 835-0424 SOCORRO
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Truth or Consequences
A great place to wake up your senses.
WATER...
Apaches and early settlers first recognized the healthful aspects of the hot mineral waters as far back as the 1800's.
THAT’S WHAT MAKES THIS DESERT COMMUNITY special. Truth or Consequences struck a deal with Ralph Edwards in 1950, changing its name to the famous television host’s game show. But it is most certainly the water that brings people back year after year. Bath houses fed by natural hot springs, the meandering Rio Grande and New Mexico’s largest lakes provide incomparable opportunities for recreation and the relief of urban stress. Full-service bathhouses are open year round. The relaxing and healing attributes of the hot mineral water are combined with a full gamut of related services including Swedish massage, energy therapy, reflexology, ayurvedic science, ear coning, T'ai Chi and yoga. A therapeutic walk along the river in Ralph Edwards Park is also recommended for developing one’s peace of mind. Apache Chief Geronimo is said to have bathed in the healing water, thus lending his name to the Geronimo Springs Museum and Geronimo Peace Days Fiesta. A full array of water sporting and camping facilities are available at the area’s three state parks. Water skiing, scuba diving, fishing…the list of activities goes on and on for Elephant Butte and Caballo Lakes. Nearby mountains offer hiking, scenic byways, the quaint village of Hillsboro and the ghost towns of Kingston and Winston.
above: In addition to windsurfing and jet skiing, Elephant Butte Lake offers sailing, parasailing, water skiing, paddle boats, fishing and scuba rental services. opposite: Our Lady of Guadalupe Mission in Hillsboro was rebuilt after the 1972 flood.
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2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com
The
Recreation Paradise of New Mexico!
EVENTS
Feb Cuchillo Pecan Festival. 743-3201 Chocolate Lovers Event. 8940615 Annual Quilting Day Luncheon. 744-5472 Mar National Quilting Day Luncheon. 744-5472 Apr Kite Festival. 744-4708 Winston Spring Fiesta. 743-2736 Old Time Fiddler’s Contest. 894-3536 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 May Ralph Edwards Fiesta. 894-3536 RV Boat Show. 888-667-2757 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 Jun Elephant Butte Chile Challenge Cook Off. 894-2181 Turtleback Folk Art & Music Festival. 894-0615 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 Jul Fourth of July Fireworks. 744-5998 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 Aug Lions Club Carp Round Up. 894-7421 Sierra County Musical at Exploratorium. 794-3536 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 Sep Hillsboro Apple Festival. Hatch Chile Festival. 895-5686 American Bass Fishing Tournaments. 744-5505 Oct Sierra County Fair. allyon@nmsu.edu Geronimo Peace Gathering. 894-3536 Winston Saint Jude Fiesta. 743-6354 Old Time Fiddlers State Champ. Contest. 894-3536 Nov Veterans Day Car Show. 894-3536 Veterans Memorial Park. 894-3536. Christmas Craft Show. 744-4708 Dec Christmas Fare. 894-6900 Christmas in the Foothills. 895-5306 Weekend of the Lights. 744-4708 Christmas Jubilee. 894-3536.
LOCATION Truth or Consequences is located on I-25 by Elephant Butte Lake State Park in the hot springs region of the Rio Grande. TOUR ROUTE On I-25, travel 72 miles north to Socorro or 75 miles south to Las Cruces. MORE INFORMATION Truth or Consequences Sierra County Chamber (505) 894-3536 or (800) 831-9487
Hot Mineral Springs, Fishing, Hunting, Boating, Rafting, Sailing, Hiking, Golfing, Swimming, Biking, & Live Entertainment Chambers of Commerce: Truth or Consequences
Elephant Butte
www.truthorconsequencesnm.net
elephantbuttecoc.com
505.894.3536
505.744.4708
Elephant Butte Lake
Paid for by Lodgers Tax
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
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Catron County
Glenwood, Reserve, Mogollon, Quemado, Quemado Lake, Apache Creek...
EVENTS Feb
Mar
Apr
May Jul
Aug Sep
13 15 TBA 19 20 28 3 10 17 20-21 29 1 TBA 8 3 4 TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA TBA
Nov 20-21 TBA Dec 24
Valentine’s Bingo. Glenwood 539-2711 Woman’s Club Red Dessert Social Art Show. Glenwood 539-2711 Melodrama. Glenwood 539-2711 4-H Dance at Reserve Community Center. 539-2711 Enchilada Dinner. Glenwood 539-2711 Glenwood Fishing Derby. 539-2711 19th Annual Spring Bingo. Glenwood 539-2711 Easter Egg Hunt at Glenwood Park. 539-2711 Woman’s Club Rummage & Bake Sale. Glenwood 539-2711 Ranch Days. Glenwood 539-2711 Spaghetti Dinner for Tour of the Gila Race. Glenwood 539-2711 Catwalk Grand Re-opening. Glenwood 539-2711 Cinco de Mayo Celebration. Reserve Cierra MacDougall Fund Raiser at Glenwood Park. 539-2711 Frisco Cowbelles’ Annual BBQ, Western Fine Arts Auction & Dance. Glenwood 539-2711 Fireworks at Dusk at the Glenwood Park. 539-2711 Catron County Heritage Festival. Reserve Luna Founder’s Day and Rodeo. Luna Coalition of AZ & NM Counties. 539-2711 “Run for the Angels” at Glenwood Park. 539-2711 Catron County Fair & Rodeo. Reserve Scorpion Sting Endurance Ride at Glenwood Park. 539-2711 Pie Town Pie Festival. Pie Town Luna Barter Fair. Luna Raspberry Festival. Reserve Turkey Bingo. 539-2711 4th Annual Glenwood Open Cowboy Golf Tournament. 539-2711 Craft Bazaar. 539-2711 Live Nativity and Town Lighting. 539-2711
THE VILLAGES
OF CATRON COUNTY hold the keys for opening a world of mountain recreational opportunities. They are the jumping off points for ghost town adventures, wilderness hiking and pack trips, trout fishing and electric motor boating on lakes nestled among endless ponderosa forests. The Catwalk National Recreation Trail, five miles from Glenwood, features picnic grounds among huge cottonwood trees and long steel walkways that cling to the sides of narrow bluffs and open up to a magnificent mountain setting. The state fish hatchery on the Catwalk road provides an introduction to the trout that inhabit local waters. From Glenwood, travelers can take a side trip on a narrow paved road that climbs into the mountains to the picturesque ghost town of Mogollon. A well-maintained dirt road from Mogollon skirts the northern edge of the vast Gila Wilderness past excellent fishing and camping sites before cutting back to Reserve. North of Reserve, the tour follows scenic NM 32 from Apache Creek to Quemado Lake, with facilities at both locations. LOCATION Quemado is located on US 60 with Quemado Lake just off NM 32 between Quemado and Apache Creek. Apache Creek and Reserve are located on NM 12. Glenwood is on US 180 with Mogollon to the east on NM 159. TOUR Travel 53 miles south on US 180 from Glenwood to Silver City. MORE INFORMATION Catron County Chamber (505) 533-6116 Glenwood Chamber (505)539-2711 above: Catwalks cross boulders and cling to the sides of narrow canyon cliffs at Catwalk National Recreation Trail near Glenwood.
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2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com
Reserve & Glenwood In Old West Country
Discover the unparalleled beauty of Catron County. • Explore the Gila Wilderness • Enjoy friendly people • Visit the Catwalk • Drive the scenic highways
Explore Old West Country! • Go back into history where it all began • See beautiful mountain lakes and clear mountain streams
Glenwood
Reserve www.catroncounty.org/chamber
www.oldwestcountry.com
www.glenwoodnewmexico.com
505-533-6116
505-539-2711
chamber@catroncounty.org
chamber@glenwoodnewmexico.com
BED & BREAKFAST T R A V E L E R
Remaining buildings in Old West ghost towns protect the secrets of bygone rough and tumble eras
G H O ST TOW N S MOGOLLON (above) On the northern edge of the Gila Wilderness, a number of the original buildings still stand in the picturesque gold mining town of Mogollon. A handful of shops and galleries are open in the warmer weather. The village is accessed by a narrow, winding, but paved road that departs from US 180 north of Glenwood. STEINS (left, top) Originally established as a Butterfield Stage Stop, Steins developed into a workstation for railroaders in the late 1800s. The town of about a thousand people died when Southern Pacific changed from steam to diesel locomotives. Open daily, Steins is packed full of memorabilia and friendly critters. Call 505-542-9791. SHAKESPEARE (left, bottom) The Butterfield Stage stop of Shakespeare developed a reputation for lawlessness at the turn of the last century with disputes frequently resulting in gunfights and hangings. Scheduled tours and periodic reenactments are available. Located three miles south of Lordsburg, it is the only authentically preserved Ghost Town in the West. LAKE VALLEY Once a booming mining town of 4,000, Lake Valley died during the silver panic of 1893. The Bridal Chamber, one of the largest finds in silver mining history was discovered at this location. Lake Valley is on NM 27, south of the picturesque village of Hillsboro. WINSTON Settled in 1881, Winston grew to more than 3,000 residents before declining silver prices ended its mining role. A few of the original structures still stand, and the “hanging tree," located on Wall Street, is over 200 years old. Winston is located on NM 52, 38 miles northwest of Truth or Consequences.. For more information call 1-800-831-9487.
RV TRAVELER
BURRO MOUNTAIN HOMESTEAD Historic RV Park off Highway 90, 7 miles up mountain road. Tall pines and hiking trails. Full hookup, bath house and laundry. 20 miles south of Silver City. 665 Tyrone Rd. • Silver City, NM 88065 505.538.2149 Fax 505.388.4727
CASITAS DE GILA GUESTHOUSES & ART GALLERLY A Stress-Free Zone near Silver City! Our wonderful Casitas have full kitchens and fireplaces, solitude and wildlife. De-stress for a day, a week or longer. 1-877-923-4827 info@casitasdegila.com www.casitasdegila.com
SPIRIT CANYON LODGE Gila Wilderness, Lake Roberts Area, Lodging and Cottages. Full Menu Café, German Food on Saturday. Nonsmoking. Great Hiking and wildlife, Scenic Byway and Birding Trail. Hummingbirds. Hwy. 35, Lake Roberts, NM 505-536-9459 info@spiritcanyon.com www.spiritcanyon.com
DOUBLE T HOMESTEAD BED & BREAKFAST Guest Houses with full kitchens, Satellite TV, Secluded Cabin, RV Park, Full Hook-ups, Horse Motel with Pipe Stalls. Gila National Forest adjacent. Retreats, weddings and reunions. Catwalk Road • Glenwood, NM 88039 PO Box 358 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2812 • doublet@gilanet.com www.doublethomestead.com
NEW MEXICO BED & BREAKFAST ASSN. Enjoy Bed & Breakfast accommodation in adobe casitas, exquisite haciendas, and historic Victorian inns located throughout New Mexico. Call for free directory of inspected member inns: 1-888-661-6649 info@nmbba.org • www.nmbba.org GHOST TOWNS
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Silver City One of Nation’s Top Small Towns
Silver City is consistantly rated as one of the BEST Places to Live and Retire in the USA!
BORDERING
THE THREE MILLION ACRE GILA NATIONAL FOREST, Silver City has evolved from a late 1800’s mining camp to a bustling Mecca for the arts and recreation. Its Victorian character, nationally sanctioned events and a strong business and university ethic have created a community that ranks at the top of the nation’s most respected lists for the arts, historic preservation, healthful living and retirement. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, surrounded on three sides by the first wilderness area designated by Congress, provides not only a glimpse into the ancient Mogollon culture, but endless opportunities for camping, hiking, pack trips, fishing, biking or simply a leisurely drive through magnificent scenic vistas. Lake Roberts and Bear Canyon Lake, the historic village of Pinos Altos, the peaceful Mimbres River Valley, City of Rocks State Park, the breath-taking Chino open-pit mine and excellent birding opportunities dot the immediate area while ghost towns, rock hounding and the Catwalk National Recreation Trail are within an hour’s radius. The Tour of the Gila sanctioned 5-day bicycle stage race, Silver City Blues Festival, Weekend at the Galleries, Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo, Fiesta de la Olla and the Red Paint Powwow make Silver City a major events destination. An array of cultural, sporting and educational functions fills remaining gaps. The Billy the Kid era cabin donated by movie director Ron Howard opens the door to the historic downtown district packed full of galleries, museums, coffee shops, unique shopping…and Big Ditch Park.
opposite: Construction of St. Vincent De Paul Church in Silver City was begun in 1874 and the mission-style towers and entry were added in 1908. above: A walking bridge spans Big Ditch Park which was once Silver City’s Main Street prior to unusual flooding at the turn of the 20th century. SILVER CITY
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E K L E K T I K A S fine art • sculpture • folk art • antiques • jewelry • custom interiors Mexican colonial and contemporary furniture • lamps • Oriental rugs
EKLEKTIKAS 703 N. Black Street Silver City, NM 88061
EKLEKTIKAS II 104 Yankie Street Silver City, NM 88061
505.538.8081 www.eklektikas.com
ART SI LVE R CITY R IVALS MAJOR MAR KETS
& C U LT U R E BREAKING INTO THE TOP THREE SLOTS OF MODERN MATURITY’S “Best Small Towns in America” and being listed by John Villani as one of “The Hundred Best Small Art Towns in America” and by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in its “Dozen Distinctive Destinations-2002” has given Silver City recognition as one of the nation’s culturally progressive small communities. The strong visual and performing arts activities, museums and the renovated historic district have created a destination worthy of America’s culture-hungry travelers. A wide range of galleries and specialty shops are located throughout the university and historic districts and in the mountain village of Pinos Altos. Art walks and fairs, artist openings, gallery weekends and cultural exchanges on an international level have created a niche for Silver City in the world of art. A performing arts seasons that include international talent is sponsored by the Mimbres Region Arts Council and the Grant County Community Concerts Association. Special events with nationally acclaimed artists include the Silver City Blues Festival, symphony and opera presentations and, on the local level, community and university drama presentations and a melodrama series. The Silver City Museum, housed in the 1881 Victorian home of H.B. Ailman, and the Western New Mexico University Museum, with the world’s largest collection of artifacts from the thousand-year old Mimbres Culture, are the pride of the community. Walking tours of the historic district provide insight into the spirited early days of mining and the commitment to enduring architecture.
Gallery openings and visual arts events, internationally acclaimed performing arts programs and fashion fill the local calendar on a year-round basis. clockwise from top: The Silver City Museum portrays the town’s Victorian architecture. McCray Gallery at WNMU. Sculpture at Visitors Center. Exquisite Galleries are found in the historic downtown art district. Copper sculpture depicts the community’s mining heritage. Locals and tourists gather at Yankie Street galleries.
SILVER CITY
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CENTURY 21 Thompson Realty 607 North Hudson Silver City, NM 88061
505-538-0021 800-358-0021 www.silver-nm.com
Real Estate for Your World sm
Wooded • Views • Paved Streets Underground utilities City water Lot sizes from 0.75 acre to 2.8 acres
Now Representing..... DO S GRIEG
Silver City’s Premier Subdivision
Call Patrick Conlin
S O
Real Estate for Your World sm
CENTURY 21 Thompson Realty 607 N. Hudson • Silver City, NM 88061 505-538-0021 • 800-358-0021 www.silver-nm.com
Silver City Blues Festival, May 28-30, 2005
SILVER CITY EVENTS Jan
Mimbres Region Arts council Promoting all the arts in their richness to people of all ages. • Performance series September thru May. • Silver City Blues Festival-Memorial Day Weekend. • Weekend at the Galleries-Columbus Day Weekend. • Fiesta de la Olla featuring Juan Quezada - July. 1201 Pope St. • Silver City, NM
505-538-2505
888-758-7289
www.mimbresarts.org
Silver City
Museum Gift Shop In the H.B. Ailman House Books & Regional Gifts Tues.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.-Sun. 10:00-4:00 Closed Monday
312 W. Broadway, Silver City, NM
505-388-5721
Western New Mexico University Museum Houses the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and culture in the world. Located in Fleming Hall on the WNMU campus. Open Mon.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.- Sun. 10:00-4:00 Free Admission Handicap Accessible
505-538-6386
www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm
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Neo-Mimbreno III. 388-5721 Greg Brown with Karen Savoca and Pete Heitzman. Folk Series at the Opera House. 1-888-758-7289 10-11 Red Paint Powwow. 1-800-548-9378 or 538-3785 17 Grant County Community Concert Association presents Harp Fusion. 538-3785 18 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 31 Celtic Double Bill: Flook / Susan McKeown and The Chanting House. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Feb 6 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring the works of John Rogers. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 7 A Chocolate Fantasia. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 7 “Baubles” Opening at Blue Dome Gallery. 534-8671 7 Michael Metcalf Gallery Opening at Eklektikas II. 538-8081 8 Instrumental Ensemble. 538-3578 12 The Unsinkable Molly Brown. 1-888-758-7289 15 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 20 Grant Co. Comm. Concerts present “I Get a Kick out of Cole” Cole Porter Broadway Production. 538-3785 27 The Little Angels of Korea. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Mar 7 WNMU Band and WNMU Jazz Band Concert. 538-6617 12 Organic Forms, Hadfield and Brush Exhibition. 538-6517 12 Flying Dance Company. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 13 Historic Downtown Music Showcase. 538-3785 14 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 26-28 Victorio’s Run. The NM State Cowboy Action Championship Shoot Fowler Land & Cattle Co., Mimbres Valley. 388-2531 Apr 2 Chris Smither. Folk Series at the Opera House. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 9 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring works by Elsie Dean. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 14 Grant County Community Concert Association presents East Meets West Chamber Music Quintet. 538-3785 16-18,22-23 “Sylvia” WNMU Expressive Arts Dept. 538-6502 18 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 18 Organ Instrumental Performances. 538-3578 23 Student Exhibition Reception. 538-6517 23 Stacey Earle and Mark Stuart. Folk Series at the Opera House. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 25 WNMU Band and WNMU Jazz Band Concert. 538-6617 28-May 21 8th Annual Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race. 388-3222 May1-Oct 2 Grant Co. Art Guild Summer Time Art Show. 538-8216 1 Copper Cowbelles Shindig. 538-5555 8 MainStreet Celebration of Spring Festival. 534-1700 16 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 28-30 9th Annual Silver City Blues Festival. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 28-31 Silver City Blues Festival. 1-800-548-9378 or 538-3785 29 MainStreet BluesBerry Brunch. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289
Wilderness vista, Trail of the Mountain Spirits Byway
Fiesta de la Olla July 16-18, 2004
Red Paint Powwow January 7-8, 2005
Historic Downtown Silver City “A New Mexico MainStreet Community”
One of the NATION’S - National Trust for Historic Preservation
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument
Silver City has it all! Year after year, Silver City is consistently rated “One of the BEST SMALL TOWNS in America” - one of the nation’s best places to visit, live, and retire! Over 100 years of Old West history, a rich and diversified cultural heritage, vibrant arts community, friendly residents, a healthy, low-stress lifestyle, and unbeatable climate.... with Four Gentle Seasons. Come visit, and see for yourself what Silver City has to offer!
Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061
www.silvercity.org 1-800-548-9378
Wind Canyon Estates Located approximately 5 miles west of Silver City on Hwy 180 W. bordering the Gila National Forest, Wind Canyon Estates boasts breath-taking views - some as far away as Arizona. Enjoy the native vegetation of beautiful wildflowers, yucca, and stately piñon, juniper, cedar and oak evergreens. 10 acre parcels priced from low $60K. Definitely a place to explore!
501 Silver Heights Blvd. • Silver City, NM
505-538-2931
Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo June 2-5, 2005
http.//www.zianet.com/cber
Jun
TheCelebrating Palace Hotel 100 Years
11
Located in the downtown historic district. Reminiscent of a small hotel in the European Tradition. • Affordable Rates • 18 Rooms & Suites • Continental Breakfast
12 13 19 19 3-5 4
Jul
106 W. Broadway Silver City, NM 88061
17-18
505-388-1811
www.zianet.com/palacehotel
25 25 Aug
Copper Creek Ranch Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Show Family Dining Friday & Saturday Nights Memorial Day thru Labor Day
www.coppercreeklady@zianet.com
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5-6 8-10 Nov 27
20 Flury Lane • Silver City, NM
505-538-2971
Casitas de Gila Guesthouses Art Gallery Escape to our Stress-Free Zone and savor the peace and isolation of our incredible location on the western edge of the Gila Wilderness. Beautifully appointed 1 and 2 bedroom Guesthouses with full kitchens, kiva fireplaces, porches, bbq grills, picnic tables, continental breakfast … and a delightful art gallery! www.casitasdegila.com
1-877-923-4827
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Reservations Appreciated
Just 30 miles NW of Silver City
2-5 5
50 CASITA FLATS RD. • GILA, NM 88038-0325
www.oldwestcountry.com
Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo. 538-3785 or 388-2586 6th Annual Rodeo Parade and Wild Wild West Days Celebration. 535-2567 MRAC Gallery Exhibit Reception featuring works by the MRAC Print Project. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 6th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair. 388-4202 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 Historic Downtown Music Showcase. 534-1700 “The Public Hanging” All Day Art Exhibits. 538-2505 Firecracker Golf Tournament. 538-5041 Independence Day Parade & Ice Cream social and Car Show at the Silver City Museum. 534-1700 First Annual Hummingbirds of New Mexico Festival in Lake Roberts. e-mail HBNM@gilanet.com. TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 Solo Romantic Piano. Church of the Good Shepherd Recital Series. 538-3578 Silver Invitational Golf Tournament. 538-5041 25th Annual Gun Show. 388-2360 TBA. International Film Society. 538-5142 Copper Country Cruizers’ Car Show. 388-3519 St. Vincent de Paul Annual Fiesta. 538-9373 Signal Peak Challenge: Mountain Bike Regional Qualifier for National Championship. 388-3222 Annual Billy Casper Golf Tournament. 538-4067 Annual Gila Thunder Bike Run. 388-2427 Annual Gem and Mineral Show. 538-3216 12th Annual San Vicente Art Fair. 388-4854 Annual WNMU Homecoming Parade. Club Championship Golf Tournament. 538-5041 Annual Pinos Altos October Fiesta fund raiser for Pinos Altos Volunteer Fire and Rescue Dept. 538-0204 Silver Ladies President Cup Golf Tourn. 538-5041 Annual Weekend at the Galleries. 538-2505 Annual Lighted Christmas Parade. 534-1700
LOCATION Silver City is at the junction of US 180 and NM 90, near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. TOUR Travel 44 miles southwest on NM 90 and US 70 to Lordsburg. MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 505-538-3785 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org Mimbres Region Arts Council 505-538-2505 1-888-758-7289 www.mrac.cc
Pinos Altos An era rich in frontier history, cavalry forts, and Apache warriors is displayed in this historic old town.
NESTLED
IN A FOREST OF ponderosa pine that stretches to a far horizon, the historic village of Pinos Altos became a boomtown and county seat with the discovery of gold in 1859. Just seven miles above Silver City, the village has evolved into a mountain arts community with the lingering flair of the Old West mining era. Memorabilia and artifacts of gun fighters, Apache warriors and the ancient Mimbres culture can be seen in the Buckhorn Saloon and Restaurant. Indian Joe, the most widely known character of these parts, quietly contemplates his drink 24 hours a day at the end of the bar. A replica of Fort Cobre, a log cabin schoolhouse and the old Hearst Church Art Gallery reminisce bygone times. A spirited melodrama performed in the Opera House draws the audience into the historic moment. Pinos Altos borders the three-million acre Gila National Forest on NM15 connecting Silver City to Lake Roberts, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, and the nation’s first designated wilderness area.
Bear Creek Motel Cabins LLC. Unique two-story cabins include fireplaces, secluded balconies, porches, phones, TV’s, and BBQ grills. Cabins with kitchens available. Nestled under the pines in historic Pinos Altos. Gateway to the Gila Wilderness.
Seven miles north of Silver City.
EVENTS May 1-Oct 2 Jun 12 Oct 2
Grant County Art Guild Summer Time Art Show. 538-8216 6th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair. 388-4202 Annual Pinos Altos October Fiesta fund raiser for Pinos Altos Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. 538-0204 Gallery openings and visual arts events, internationally acclaimed performing arts programs and fashion fill the local calendar on a year-round basis.
DIRECTIONS Pinos Altos is 7 miles north of Silver City on NM 15 to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. above: The Hearst Church now serves as an art gallery. left: Indian Joe can be seen along with other memorabilia of the era in the Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House.
505-388-4501 888-388-4515
P.O. Box 53082 Pinos Altos, NM 88053
www.bearcreekcabins.com
Holiday Inn Express SILVER CITY
The Holiday Inn Express in beautiful Silver City is your ticket to a Southwest adventure. Let our friendly staff aid you in exploring the wonders of the Silver City area from a convenient homebase that features a fully equipped fitness center, spa facilities, and complimentary breakfast. 1103 Superior St. • Silver City, NM 88061
1-800-HOLIDAY 538-2525
www.hiexpress.com PINOS ALTOS
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AREA NATU RAL AN D MAN-MADE PH E NOM E NA
AT T R A C T I O N S THE TERRAIN OF OLD WEST COUNTRY AND ITS USES ARE AS diverse as the people who have trod upon it. From fertile farming valleys to Alpine meadows and from disappearing ancient cultures to those who search for deep space life forms, we can help you discover your niche in Old West Country. There is certainly no end to the recreational opportunities that surface at Elephant Butte Lake State Park. New Mexico’s largest body of water offers jet ski, water ski, parasail, wind sail, scuba and fishing opportunities, and did I mention…miles and miles of beaches for cookouts and sand castles. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument offers first-hand insight into an ancient native culture that began moving from the valley floor into walled caves for protection before finally disappearing altogether. The monument lies in the middle of a massive mountain region offering wilderness pack trips, camping, mineral baths, hiking and extraordinary vistas. The Very Large Array, as seen in the movie Contact, consists of 27 dish-shaped antennas spread along three 13-mile legs on the remote Plains of San Agustin. They act as a single antenna focusing on the sounds of deep space. The New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum displays a history of the state’s farming and ranching activities from ancient Anasazi practices to modern mechanization. Demonstrations are given with actual farm animals. The Catwalk National Recreation Trail begins with a series of steel walkways clinging to narrow canyon cliffs and bridging the tops of boulders. They are reminiscent of the catwalk that transported gold ore from an upstream mine. A large picnic area lies beneath cottonwoods and sycamores at the mouth of the canyon. The City of Rocks State Park is an almost surreal collection of giant boulders resulting from the erosion of a protruding layer of lava. Paths through the rocks, picnic grounds and a cactus garden create a unique and entertaining outing. Rockhound State Park on the slopes of the Florida Mountains is littered with rock specimens. Gem and mineral enthusiasts meet regularly in the area to demonstrate cutting, polishing and jewelry making and to sell and trade collectables. opposite: The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is located on the edge of the nation’s first Wilderness. The caves have been used as shelter for passing hunting and gathering cultures for thousands of years, but the existing walls were constructed by the Tularosa Mogollon culture around the A.D.1280. top, left: Twenty seven dish shaped antennas listens to the stars at the Very Large Array. top center, left: The sun sets on the tranquil waters of Elephant Butte Lake following a day of fishing, skiing and scuba diving. top center, right: Boulders at City of Rocks State Park provide a background for camping, picnicking and star gazing. top, right: Rockhound State Park near Deming is a gathering spot for the annual Rockhound Round-up in March. Participants from more than 40 states explore the area for rare finds. above: New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum preserves New Mexico’s agricultural heritage. top, right: Steel catwalks cling to canyon walls at The Catwalk National Recreation Trail.
GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS NATIONAL MONUMENT
Follow the “Trail of the Mountain Spirits” two hours north from Silver City along NM 15 or NM 35 to the national monument Visitor Center. Printed matter and a movie provide information about the 13th century inhabitants of this pristine area. The Cliff Dwellings are accessible by a short, well-maintained trail. 505-536-9344.
VERY LARGE ARRAY
Twenty-seven dish-shaped antennas are spread across three 13-mile legs, one of which crosses US 60 between Socorro and Reserve. A visitor center explains the mission of the project sponsored by the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. 505-388-8201.
ELEPHANT BUTTE LAKE
The state’s largest body of water is located at Truth or Consequences on Interstate 25. A full array of water sporting activities, marinas, campsites and lodging are available. Hot mineral baths and therapy can be enjoyed in the community. 505-538-2801.
CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARK
A city of giant monoliths protruding unexpectedly from the desert floor are located half way between Deming and Silver City, 5 miles east of US180. Campsites, picnic tables and drinking water are available. Walking paths lead through the fascinating boulders. 505-536-2800.
ROCKHOUND STATE PARK
Rock specimens scattered across the slopes of the Florida Mountains simply offer a great excuse to explore the area. Located southeast of Deming, rockhounds meet in the area regularly for demonstrations, sales and trading. 505-539-2481.
NEW MEXICO FARM & RANCH MUSEUM
A large and intriguing display of farm and ranch artifacts and equipment span the eras from the early Anasazi to modern times. Located on Dripping Springs Road in Las Cruces, turn east from Interstate 25 on the University Avenue exit. Enjoy live milking exhibitions and special presentations. 505-538-2801.
CATWALK RECREATION TRAIL
Walkways suspended from narrow canyon walls are the beginnings of a trail that works its way into the Gila Wilderness. The trailhead and picnic grounds beneath large cottonwood and sycamore trees are five miles east of US 180 at Glenwood. 505-538-2801. AREA ATTRACTIONS
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Lordsburg
The real thing: Taste the true flavor of the Old West By Sandy L. Broadbent
NESTLED IN
THE NEW MEXICO “Bootheel” Lordsburg was founded in 1880 and named for the engineer responsible for laying the country’s second transcontinental railroad route. Despite its heavenly sounding name, lawlessness marked the early days of Lordsburg. Shakespeare, the former Butterfield stage stop and mining camp located two miles south, is the only authentic Old West ghost town in the western United States. Guided tours and periodic historic reenactments are offered. Ghost town enthusiasts will also enjoy Steins, a railroad village often targeted by outlaws and Apache warriors. The Lordsburg area offers events ranging from Cowboy Poetry to Tejano music. Guests to the Lordsburg-Hidalgo County Museum will learn about Elizabeth Garrett, blind daughter of legendary Sheriff Pat Garrett, who penned parts of the New Mexico state song in Lordsburg; Charles Lindbergh, who landed in the “Spirit of St. Louis” and dedicated the Lordsburg airport in 1927; silent cowboy movie star Tom Mix and U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor. In addition to experiencing Lordsburg’s incomparable sunsets and authentic Mexican food, visitors should venture south to the art galleries of Rodeo, New Mexico.
EVENTS
LOCATION Lordsburg is located on I-10 near the ghost towns of Shakespeare and Steins. TOUR Travel 60 miles east on I-10 to Deming. MORE INFORMATION Lordsburg Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce (505) 542-9864
Call to confirm dates 542-9864 All Year Steins Railroad Ghost Town. 542-9864 Second Weekend Monthly Jan. thru Oct. Shakespeare Ghost Town open for visitors. 542-9864 April 24-25, June 26-27, Aug 21-22, October 23-24 Shakespeare Ghost Town Re-enactment. 542-9864 Jan 17-18 Lion’s Club Gun Show. 542-9864 Feb 13-14 Cowboy Poetry Fiesta. 542-9864 Jul 4 July 4th Activities and 5K Run. 542-9864 26-29 Hidalgo County Fair. 542-9864 Labor Day Tejano Fiesta. 542-9864 Sept 25 Sister City Celebration at Antelope Wells. 542-9864 Oct Oct-May Granite Gap Ghost Mining Camp. 505-495-5012 2 Cowboy Hall of Fame. 542-9864 4 St. Joseph’s Annual Bazaar. 542-9864 21-24 Heritage Festival. Call to confirm dates 542-9864 Dec 3 Annual Light Parade and Moonlight Madness. 542-9864 4 Sister City Tree Trimming Celebration in Antelope Wells.
above: Tours, reenactments and detailed reconstruction are features of Shakespeare ghost town, just south of Lordsburg. below: The railroad ghost town of Steins, full of stories and relics, just west of Lordsburg, opens daily for public tours.
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Deming Great weather, pure water and unique events
IT’S THE GREAT
CLIMATE THAT BRINGS PEOPLE TO DEMING... and the pure water, year-round golf, rock hounding and duck racing. If you forgot to include duck racing in the quality of life features you are seeking, perhaps you should reconsider. There’s a purse for winning ducks and for everyone else, a week of parades, outhouse races, contests, and social events. One can never fully appreciate ducks without attending this event. If gems and minerals are your passion, you will enjoy Rockhound State Park southeast of Deming where specimens literally litter the ground. Each year, rock hound events include guided trips, rock auctions and judging seminars. Deming’s calendar of events is filled with exhibits, fairs and fiestas. They are carefully scheduled, of course, around tee times on Deming’s 18-hole golf course. The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum maintains the area’s historic perspective with artifacts from the ancient Mimbres culture and memorabilia from early settlers. The museum complex includes the historic Armory building and customs house. In Columbus, just south of Deming, details of Pancho Villa’s attack on the United States are preserved in a museum and state park. General Blackjack Pershing’s pursuit of the revolutionaries into Mexico with the first planes and ground support vehicles ever used for military purposes proved to be valuable experience for WWI. Day trips from Deming include shopping and dining in Palomas, Mexico, picnicking and hiking in City of Rocks State Park and scenic drives into the Gila National Forest.
Rockhounding, duck racing, ancient cultures and the 1916 invasion of U.S. soil are intriguing attractions. OW24
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d e St i n a t i o n
DEMING,NM in “Old West” Country
“Come to Visit, Stay a Lifetime!”
opposite: St. Ann’s Catholic Church was built in 1918 for Deming’s Spanish-speaking population. above: The Great American Duck Race in August claims high stakes for winners and an unforgettable experience for all. below: Desert gardens cover the grounds at Pancho Villa State Park.
EVENTS Jan
31
6th Annual Friends of the Library Adult Spelling Bee. 546-9202 Feb 5-7 Library Book Sale. 546-9202 Mar 8 Cabalgate Binacional in Columbus. 531-2917 8-9 Columbus Raid Commemoration Services in Columbus. 531-2917 11-14 Deming Gem & Mineral Rockhound Roundup 546-0348 Apr 17 90th Old Timers Celebration. May 5 Cinco de Mayo in Columbus. 531-2917 Jul 4 Fireworks Display in Deming. Parade in Columbus. 531-2917 Aug 26-29 Great American Duck Races. 544-3483 Sep 14 St. Ann’s Fiesta. 546-3343 Oct TBA Southwestern NewMexico State Fair. 546-0177 11 Columbus Day Festival. 531-2917 16-17 St. Clair Wine Festival. 546-9324 17 Czechoslovakian Klobasc Festival. Dec 20 Christmas Light Parade. 544-2855 24 Tin Street Luminaries Display. 546-9535
LOCATION Deming is located on I-10 near Rock-hound and Pancho Villa State Parks. TOUR ROUTE On I-10, travel 59 miles east to Las Cruces or 60 miles west to Lordsburg. On US 180, travel 44 miles north from Deming to Silver City or south on NM 11 to Columbus. MORE INFORMATION Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce (505) 546-2674
W
ith over 350 days of sunshine a year, Deming, in southwest New Mexico on Interstate 10, is a great place to be. With Deming as your home base, explore and experience the “Old West,” the ancient land of Geronimo and other Apache warriors. Visit nearby Mexico and explore historic Columbus, NM on the border. Enjoy our friendship.
• • • •
18-hole golf course Four state parks Rockhounding Awesome two-story historic museum • Largest winery in NM • Panoramic high desert •Startling sunsets
For an info packet, contact the Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 8 (NMT), Deming, NM 88031, or call 1-800-848-4955, ext. 9. Visit Us On The Internet: www.demingchamber.com
Breakfast Buffet Every Day Sirloin Steak Specials Every Night Serving Favorite Cocktails Popular Beers • New Mexico Wines
Interstate 10 at Exit 85
505-546-2661 888-546-2661 DEMING
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Las Cruces New Mexico’s second largest city is a crossroads of historic trails, cultures and modern business interests.
R ATED
ONE OF THE nation’s best locations for business, retirement and touring. Las Cruces spreads across the fertile valley of the Rio Grande beneath the jagged formations of the Organ Mountains. Evolving out of the expansions of both the Old World and the new, it has become a center for commerce and technology that continues to draw upon its Mexican heritage and pioneer spirit. Las Cruces is one of the fastest growing metropolitan areas in the United States with close ties to New Mexico State University, White Sands Missile Range and the international metropolis of El Paso/Juarez. The high tech pace of the community has strengthened its diverse economy linked to manufacturing, farming, processing and advanced military projects. The Forbes/Milken Institute ranked Las Cruces as the Best Small Metro Area for business and careers in the United States. Based on job growth, earned income and "activity in critical technologies that foster future growth," this study acknowledges the dynamic character of the Las Cruces business community. Money Magazine listed Las Cruces among the eight top areas of the U.S. to retire, indicating that its vibrant cultural development has kept pace with its economic and population growth. The lyric opera, symphony, ballet and community chorus are major contributors to the area’s cultural aspects, in addition to full seasons of both community
right: Our Lady of Health Catholic Church in Las Cruces was recently built in traditional Spanish baroque style as directed by the Order of Agostinian Recolectos.
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and university theater. The Whole Enchilada Festival, wine and chile fiestas, and the Mariachi Conference celebrate the community's Hispanic heritage while its attraction of major national and international touring groups fills the entertainment gaps. Byways magazine placed Las Cruces in the top 50 motorcoach destinations for 2004. The rating is based on tour operator’s anticipated routes. Ft. Selden State Monument and area museums provide a glimpse into the lives of the region’s settlers and soldiers in the 1800's. The Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum depicts the evolvement of New Mexico farming over the last 2000 years, offering live animal demonstrations and collections of historic tools and equipment. Hiking trails on both sides of the rugged Organ Mountains and walking and biking trails along the Rio Grande provide an outlet to Mother Nature. Day trips to White Sands National Monument, Elephant Butte Lake State Park, and the mountain playlands of both Silver City and Ruidoso give Las Cruces access to the great outdoors. It continues to build upon traditional roles that began with the coming of Spanish explorers and colonists over 400 years ago. Its cultural, recreational and economic development, however, are clearly tied to the region’s grasp of the future. left: Early morning sunlight reflects off the Rio Grande in Las Cruces, the best small business community in the U.S. opposite: Spanish and Mexican fiestas are held throughout the year.
Las Cruces, New Mexico
Where a 19th century Union soldier meets a 21-year-old outlaw.
Las Cruces stands at the crossroads of time. You can almost hear the echoes of long-gone cavalrymen at Fort Selden as they prepared for a skirmish. Or sense the presence of a legendary outlaw by visiting the cell where Billy the Kid was held (but not for long). It is a city filled with the ghosts of history: famed Native American warriors, Spanish explorers, and pre-historic tribes. They have all come and gone and left their mark. For a free visitor’s guide on our timeless city, call 1-800-FIESTAS ext. 112.
,
www.lascrucescvb.org
Ranked one of the best places to live and work by Money Magazine and Forbes/Milken in 2002. OW28
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MESILLA The BEST of the
VA L L E Y
EVENTS Jan
17-18
Apr
3 17
May
17-18 24-25 1-2 15-16 29-31
Jul
9
Sep
4-5 4-6 4-6 18-19 24-26 29-Oct 3 2 16-17 6-7 11-14 26
Oct Nov
Dec
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11th Annual Wells Fargo Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally. 526-1134 Trinity Site Tour. 678-1134 Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market “Easter Eggstravaganza”. 541-2554 16th Annual Frontier Days. 800-429-9488 La Vina Blues & Jazz Thing. 882-7632 Cinco de Mayo. 524-3262 3rd Annual la Fiesta de San Ysidro. 522-4100 Southern New Mexico Wine Festival, The Vinters’ Splash. 522-1232 Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market “Christmas in July”. 528-3276 Hatch Chile Festival. 895-5686 New Mexico Wine Harvest Festival. 522-1232 Hillsboro Apple Festival. 895-5686 White Sands Balloon Invitational. 430-7585 The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. 526-1938 Southern New Mexico State Fair. 524-8602 Trinity Site Tour. 678-1134 Cowboy Days. 522-4100 33nd Annual Renaissance Craftfaire. 523-6403 International Mariachi Conference. 525-1735 Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market “Holiday Handicrafts”. 528-3276 Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market “Sentimental Season”. 528-3276 Christmas Carols and the Luminarias on the Plaza. 524-3262
LOCATION Las Cruces is located at the junction of I-10 and I-25 between the Rio Grande and the Organ Mountains. DIRECTIONS On I-10, travel south 44 miles to El Paso, Texas, or west 59 miles to Deming. On I-25, travel north 75 miles to Truth or Consequences. MORE INFORMATION Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau (800) 343-7827 or (505) 541-2444 www.lascrucescvb.org
RED MOUNTAIN CAFE Red Mountain Café specializes in providing an international flair to your dining experience, with breakfast, lunch and dinner being served daily. Special catering available. 1120 Commerce Dr. • Las Cruces, NM 88001 505.522.7584 Fax 505.521.0484 sales@redmountaincafe.com www.redmountaincafe.com
THE PIT STOP CAFE Homemade Mexican & American Food. Extensive Menu. Breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. Specials – Try the trout! 7am-9pm. Exit 139 off I-10. BBB Member. Friendly service. 361 Motel Blvd. • Las Cruces, NM 88005 505.527.1993
THE BLUE STONE, TOO Looking for Southwest Jewelry? Gifts? Coins? We have it All! Need extra cash? We buy gold or silver jewelry and coins. Or call Alamogordo 1-866-437-9828. 1301 E. Lohman Ave. • Las Cruces, NM 505.532.6342
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Mesilla History comes alive.
The charm and serenity of Mesilla may well transform one’s hectic, modern outlook on life to a calmer more rational state..
THE WHITE TOWERS
OF SAN ALBINO CHURCH dominate the tree-shaded plaza area of Mesilla. The traditional bandstand in the plaza’s center creates a vision of colorful fiestas and political rallies. Art, fashion, southwest cuisine, Mexican crafts and theater fill the quaint adobe buildings of the plaza area. Visitors are attracted by the relaxed Mexican/Old West atmosphere and of course, the seasonal aroma of roasting chile drifting along the sidewalks and narrow streets. Every door opens to a gallery, an antique shop, a bookstore, a coffeehouse, a dress shop or a collection of handmade jewelry. Mesilla served as Regional Headquarters for the Butterfield Overland Mail and Stage Line and also as a regional headquarters for the Confederate army. It became a lively and often rowdy social above: The old Spanish architecture and festive atmosphere of Mesilla contrasts the adjacent bustling city of Las Cruces. opposite: San Albino Church on the Mesilla Plaza was constructed of brick in 1907 around the original adobe structure that had been built in the early 1850s.
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The old brick and stucco structures stir the hearts and imaginations of Mesilla’s visitors.
LA POSTA de mesilla
Famed for Mexican Food and Steaks Since 1939
A TRULY AUTHENTIC DINING & SHOPPING EXPERIENCE Located on the plaza in historic Old Mesilla, and not far from the intersection of Interstate 10 at the Rio Grande, is a truly authentic southern New Mexico dining and shopping experience. Established in 1857 as a Butterfield Stagecoach Stop, La Posta has felt the footprints of such notables as Kit Carson, Judge Roy Bean and Billy the Kid. The chile rellenos, enchiladas, tamales, and empanadas are a melding of the Mexican-Indian dishes uniquely influenced by the New Mexican culture. Their best kept secrets, however, may be their delicious steaks and refreshing tropical drinks. The warm, friendly service and consistently excellent cuisine make it not only popular among locals, but also a memorable stop for visiting national and international dignitaries. Don’t forget to visit our La Posta Chile Shop... The Hot, Hot spot in Old Mesilla.
2410 Calle De San Albino • Mesilla, NM 88046
505-524-3524 • www.laposta-de-mesilla.com OW32
2004 OLD WEST TRAILS
www.oldwestcountry.com
center in the 1880’s with its dances, bullfights, cockfights, and theater productions. It also attracted its share of unsavory characters. Billy the Kid was tried and sentenced to hang in La Mesilla in 1881, but escaped before the sentence could be carried out. Just a mile south of the seventh fastest growing community in the nation and 40 minutes north of the world’s largest international metropolis, Mesilla offers a leisurely stroll through an elegant gallery, a quiet candlelight dinner for two and a balcony room for watching the moon climb over the edge of the rugged Organ Mountains. EVENTS Monthly Feb 27 Apr 24 May Jun-Sep Sep Sep-Nov Oct Nov
Dec
Crafts Market, Thur-Sun. 524-3262 For the Love of Art. 524-3262 Town Hall Groundbreaking. 524-3262 1-4 Border Book Festival. 524-1499 British Car Show. 524-8887 1-2 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. 524-3262 7 Farmer’s Market, Thur. 524-3262 1 8-19 Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta. 524-3262 Mariachi Sundays, Every Sunday. 524-3262 9 Jazz Happening. 524-3524 30-31 Dia de los Muertos. 647-2639 11 Veterans Day Ceremony. 524-3262 13 Sister City Ascension Visit. 524-3262 20 Signing of the Gadsden Purchase Reenactment. 524-3262 9 Lighting of the Christmas Tree. 524-3262 24 Luminarias and Music. 524-3262 14
LOCATION Mesilla borders I-10 on the Don Juan de Oñate Trail, just south of Las Cruces. DIRECTIONS Travel north on Avenida de Mesilla into Las Cruces or south on NM 28 to La Viña, Sunland Park and El Paso. MORE INFORMATION Old Mesilla Association (505) 526-6220.
r u o T OLD WEST
y r t n u o C
SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO
Reserve/Glenwood
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Reserve (C2) Quemado (A2) Pie Town (A3) Plains of San Agustin/Datil (B3-B4) Glenwood (D1) Glenwood Hatchery (D1) The Catwalk (D1) San Francisco Hot Springs (D1) Mogollon (C1) Snow Lake (C2) Gila Wilderness (D2-D3) Outer Loop (C1-D3)
Socorro 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Very Large Array Telescopes (B4) Magdalena/Kelly (B5) Langmuir Lightning Res. Lab (B5) Magdalena Ridge Observatory (B5) Socorro Plaza Historic District (B6) NM Tech/Mineral Museum (B6) Quebradas Back Country Byway (A4) Owl Cafe (B6) Bosque del Apache Refuge (B6-C6 Sevilleta Nat’l. Wildlife Refuge (A5-6) La Joya State Game Refuge (A6)
Silver City 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37
Historic Downtown Silver City (E3) Silver City Museum (E3) WNMU Museum (E3) Royal Scepter Mineral Museum (E3) Pinos Altos (E3) Santa Rita del Cobre Fort (E3) Trail of Mtn. Spirits S. Byway (D3-E3) Gila National Forest (C2-E4) Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Mon. (D3) Lake Roberts/Mimbres River (D3) Mine Tours & Old Mines (E3) Fort Bayard (E3) City of Rocks State Park (E3) Outer Loop Drive (C1-D3)
Truth or Consequences 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52
T or C Hot Baths (D5) Geronimo Stprings Museum (D5) Rio Grande (D5) Elephant Butte Dam (D5) Elephant Butte Lake St. Park (C5-D5) Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway (C4-E4) Monticello/Placita (C3) Pecan & Candy Shop - Cuchillo (D4) Cuchillo Bar & Museum (D5) Winston (C4) Chloride (C4) Caballo Lake State Park (D5-E5) Lake Valley Bk Ctry Byway (D4-E4) Hillsboro (E4) Kingston (E4)
Lordsburg 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65
Steins Ghost Town (F1) Shakespeare Ghost Town (F2) Lordsburg Museum (F2) Virden (E1) Gila River (C3-E1) Redrock State Wildlife Area (E1) Gila National Forest (E2) Cave Creek (G1) Portal (G1) Rodeo (G1) Animas (G1) Hatchita (G2) Antelope Wells (H2)
Deming 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77
Deming Visitors Center (F4) Mimbres Museum (F4) Historic Walking Tour (F4) Golf Course (F4) Rockhound State Park (F4) Spring Canyon State Park (F4) St. Clair Winery (F4) Geolapidary Museum (F4) Mimbres-Paquime Tour (E3-H2) Pancho Villa State Park (G4) Columbus/Museum (G4) Palomas (G4)
Las Cruces
78 Old Mesilla (F6) 79 NM Farm-Ranch Museum (F6) 80 Gadsden Museum (F6)
81 82 83 84
Branigan Cultural Center (F6) New Mexico State University (F6) Natural History Museum (F6) Bataan Death March Memorial (F6)
85 86 87 88
Dripping Springs (F6) Stahmann Farms (F6) White Sands MIssile Range Museum (F6) White Sands Nat’l. Monument (E7)
89 Ft. Selden State Monument (E5) 90 Leasburg Dam (E5) 91 War Eagles Air Museum (G6)
GLENWOOD
LORDSBURG
Cliff Dwellings
Oregon Mountains
Mineral Hot Springs
Shakespeare
DEMING
DEMING
VLA Our Lady of Health Church
Lake Roberts
SOCORRO LAS CRUCES
Catwalk Duck Races Elephant Butte
SILVER CITY
GLENWOOD
LAS CRUCES
DEMING
SOCORRO
T OR C
T OR C
A place where fortunes were made, hearts were broken and dreams were fulfilled!
Golf Course
1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com
Where it All Began...
Silver City Museum
P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062
• Deming • Las Cruces • Lordsburg • Reserve/Glenwood • Silver City • Socorro • Truth or Consequences
Farm & Heritage Museum
The Communities of:
Bosque del Apache
SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO
Elephant Butte
OLD WEST y r t n Cou
Mogollon
SILVER CITY
Willow Creek
OLD WEST COUNTRY Southwest Region 2
SOCORRO
GLENWOOD
T OR C
SOCORRO
LAS CRUCES
San Miguel Mission
SILVER CITY
Desert Bloom
DEMING
PRESRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Silver City, NM 88061 PERMIT No. 10