Mastodons ANCIENT DWELLINGS
T R A I L S
and Spanish Missions are the foundations of
Southwest
NEW MEXICO Diverse People and
TERRAIN create unique byways and attractions
OLD WEST
COMMUNITIES are the roadmap to extraordinary ADVENTURE
THE COMMUNITIES OF SILVER CITY, DEMING, LAS CRUCES, TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, SOCORRO, LORDSBURG, RESERVE
Ancient peoples with primitive tools achieved unbelievable feats throughout Old West Country
Old WestCountry THE 1800’S SPIRIT OF DISCOVERY AND EXCITEMENT STILL PERVADES the lifestyles of New Mexico’s Southwest from its high tech plateaus to its meandering rivers. Ghost towns, forts and Indian ruins are the foundation for what’s ahead and early missions provide a vision for survival. 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. Fill the missing pages of your life with the arts, the rugged beauty and the intrigue of Southwest New Mexico. 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 people of the Mogollon culture who built the Gila Clliff Dwellings occupied them for only about 20 years before abandoning the area.
OLD WEST COUNTRY
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Old West
Western
New Mexico
University Museum
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
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
Photo by Anthony Howell
www.lordsburghidalgocounty.org/chamber lordsburgcoc@aznex.net
Reserve/Glenwood P.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830 505-533-6116
Most surprising and awe-inspiring about the WNMU Museum in Silver City, NM is that it houses the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and culture in the world.
Celebrating 31 Years 1974-2005 Open Monday through Friday 9:00-4:30 • Saturday & Sunday 10:00-4:00
Free Admission • Handicap Accessible
www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm Joseph Burgess
Keith LeMay
President & Managing Director
Photography except where credited
Distribution
Joseph Burgess Vice President & Editor In Chief
Arlyn Cooley Staff Accountant
Joseph Burgess Brett Ferneau Contributing Writers
LeAnne Knudsen Project Manager
Terri Menges Todd Yocham Designers
J. B. Kellogg Website Development
Jackie Blurton Doug Kahn Las Cruces CVB Keith LeMay Becky O’Connor Luis Perez Mark Wilson Contributing Photographers
Debra Luera Joanne Perez Jennifer Rivera Junior Design & Production
Lynn Janes LeAnne Knudsen Mary Catherine Meek
Old West Trails is a supplement to New Mexico 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.
Advertising Sales
2005 OLD WEST TRAILS
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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/Magdalena 101 Plaza • P.O. Box 743 • Socorro, NM 87801 505-835-0424 P.O. Box 281 • Magdalena, NM 87825-0281 Voice 866-854-3217 Fax 800-788-1303 www.magdalena-nm.com e-mail: info@magdalena-nm.com
Truth or Consequences P.O. Box 31 Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 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
About our cover: Dwellings and artifacts found throughout Old West Country portray the architectural ingenuity and artistic creativity of the ancient civilizations that inhabited the region.
Old West Trails is published annually by Zia Publishing Corp. 611 N. Hudson Silver City, NM 88061 Phone: 505-956-1560 Fax: 505-956-1580 e-mail: info@ziapublishing.com www.ziapublishing.com
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P.O. Box 183 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2711
www.socorro-nm.com e-mail: chamber@socorro-nm.com
505-538-6386 Terri Menges
www.catroncounty.org/chamber chambersec@catroncounty.org
Southwest Region 2 Mike Trumbull Chair, Las Cruces George Pintar Vice-Chair, Deming Susan LaFont Secretary, Elephant Butte Other region members: Stella Dante Las Cruces Durelle Freeman Glenwood Mary Gillard Socorro Keith LeMay Silver City
RICH IN KE E PI NG TH E SPI R IT OF TH E 1800s ALIVE
Photo courtesy Keith LeMay
H I STO RY MEXICAN, APACHE AND AMERICAN TURF CONFLICTS throughout the 1800s and the rough and tumble days of early mining and ranching camps produced an energetic and lively era for Old West Country. As Mexico began mining copper in the Silver City area and American settlers arrived from the East, cavalry forts were established on the trade routes to reduce the conflicts between Apaches and settlers. Ft. Seldon near Las Cruces, Ft. Craig between Socorro and Truth or Consequences, Ft. Webster at Santa Rita and in the Mimbres, and Ft. Bayard near Silver City are among those playing important roles in the late 1800s. Settlers moved along El Camino Real through Socorro, Truth or Consequences and Mesilla and westward along the Butterfield Trail from El Paso and Mesilla, through the Deming and Lordsburg areas to California. Noteworthy Old West characters include Billy the Kid, who was raised in Silver City and first jailed in Mesilla, and Pancho Villa, who attacked the United States at Columbus. Area Apache leaders include Geronimo, Mangas Colorado and Cochise. Elfego Baca made a name for himself by holding off 80 Texas cowboys in Reserve, and Butch Cassidy and his gang hid out for a time near Glenwood. Shakespeare, near Lordsburg, lays claim to a whole host of interesting and unsavory characters including the Clantons, Curley Bill and Russian Bill, just to mention a few. Mesilla served as regional headquarters for the Confederate Army and was the site where the Gadsden Purchase was ratified. Reenactments are scheduled throughout the year at the forts, Mesilla, Shakespeare, Socorro and Ft. Bayard. above: A ceremonial pot from the ancient Mimbres culture on display at the Western New Mexico University Museum in Silver City. Left from top: Early Spanish colonizers followed the Rio Grande valley as it passed from present-day El Paso and through Las Cruces, Truth or Consequences, Socorro and on to Santa Fe. San Miguel Mission was originally built by the Spanish in 1598 at Socorro. Cattle were brought to Old West Country in the 1800s and ranching remains a major area industry. Mining ghost town buildings and structures can be found throughout Southwest New Mexico including this old assay building in Kingston. Modern mining on a grand scale near Silver City can be observed at the Santa Rita copper pit, which was initiated by a Spanish soldier in 1803. Right from top: The Silver City Museum is housed in an 1880s Victorian-style home. A bronze sculpture pays tribute to the Buffalo Soldiers stationed at Ft. Seldon north of Las Cruces. A Vietnam veteran’s memorial was erected next to the historic plaza in Socorro. A bust and painting of Geronimo are displayed at the Geronimo Springs Museum in Truth or Consequences.
RICH IN HISTORY
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from top left: Gran Quivera at Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument includes a Spanish mission and excavated pueblo Indian ruins, all of which were abandoned by the 1670s. A replica of an Anasazi pit house is displayed at the Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces. A mastodon skull found near Elephant Butte Lake can be viewed at Geronimo Springs Museum in Truth or Consequences. From top right: The view from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument near Silver City. Pottery from the Mimbres Culture is displayed at the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. Apache spirit figures on a canyon wall above Lake Roberts on the Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway.
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OLD WEST COUNTRY
POINTS OF INTEREST
P R E H I STO R I C
SOCORRO/RESERVE Bat Cave southeast of Horse Springs yielded maize from 3982 BC, squash from 2000 BC and beans from1000 BC. Tulerosa Cave on NM12 near Aragon contained artifacts from periods ranging between 500 BC and AD 1250
R ICH I N ANCI E NT CU LTU R ES
PERIODS
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES Geronimo Springs Museum displays mastodon and mammoth skulls uncovered west of Elephant Butte Lake and the pottery and artifacts of several ancient cultures.
EVIDENCE OF PREHISTORIC ANIMALS AND CULTURES IN Old West Country includes pre-dinosaur trackways, dinosaur bones and the ruins of early cultures. Footprints of early amphibians were found in the Robledo Mountains of Las Cruces and local mastodon and mammoth skulls are on display at the museum in Truth or Consequences. Museums in Silver City, Deming and Truth or Consequences have impressive collections of prehistoric pottery and early artifacts. The Visitor Center at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is devoted to the ancient peoples. Western New Mexico University Museum and the Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum display replicas of pit houses that were common in the 12th and 13th centuries. Bat Cave between Reserve and Datil contained maize dated at 3981 BC, squash from 2000 BC and beans from 1000 BC. Tularosa Cave in the same region contained artifacts from periods ranging from 500 BC to AD 1259. Near Quemado, a prehistoric waterway was uncovered revealing a complex array of dams, canals, diverting walls and agricultural terraces from the Tulerosa Phase (AD 1150-1300). The Kwilleylekia Ruins northeast of Cliff is believed to be the last great pueblo of the Salado People inhabited from AD 1425 to 1575 with over 300 rooms and buildings up to four stories. The best-preserved hunting net of human hair ever recovered in the Americas was found in a cave south of Lordsburg. It is over 151 feet long.
LAS CRUCES Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum has replicas of an Anasazi pithouse and corn bin typical of the 12th and 13th centuries.
DEMING Deming Luna Mimbres Museum has a pottery room exhibiting artifacts from the Mimbres and Casas Grandes cultures.
LORDSBURG The best-preserved hunting net of human hair ever recovered in the Americas was discovered in a bat cave south of Lordsburg near the Mexican border. It is on display at the Museum of Arts and Culture in Santa Fe.
Photo by Doug Kahn courtesy Museum of Indian Arts and Culture/Laboratory of Anthropology. Image #26554/11 www.miaclab.org
SILVER CITY
above: The best-preserved hunting net made of human hair ever found in the Americas measures 151 feet in length and required the hair from 66 to 67 Indians. It was found perfectly preserved in a dry cave near the Mexican border south of Lordsburg and is on display at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe.
Western New Mexico University Museum houses the world’s largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and culture. Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument consists of cliff dwellings built in AD 1280 with over 40 rooms and pithouse sites built by the Mogollon culture as early as AD 600. A National Park Service visitor center includes a museum and videos.
CLIFF Kwilleylekia Ruins northeast of Cliff on US180 is believed to be the last great pueblo of the Salado people, consisting of 300 rooms and buildings up to four stories. It was occupied between 1425 and 1575. The ruin was excavated and backfilled.
QUEMADO A prehistoric Indian water system just north of Quemado Lake consisted of dams, canals, diverting walls and agricultural terraces from the Tulerosa phase (AD 1150-1300). PREHISTORIC PERIODS
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VETERANS MEMORIAL WALL A permanent Vietnam Memorial Wall has been erected in Truth or Consequences to honor those who gave their lives for their country. 505-894-3536
VERY LARGE ARRAY
AREA NATU RAL AN D MAN-MADE PH E NOM E NA
AT T R A C T I O N S DIVERSITY IN THE TERRAIN AND ITS PEOPLES PROVIDES A NICHE FOR every explorer of Old West Country. 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 new adventures in Old West Country. A multitude of recreational opportunities abounds in the Elephant Butte Lake State Park area. The lake offers jet skiing, water skiing, parasailing, windsailing, scuba and fishing opportunities. There are miles of beaches for cookouts and four-wheeling and the surrounding area features hot mineral baths for soothing the aches and pains. 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 just before 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 Augustin. 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 from top left: mobile dish antennas at the Very Large Array west of Socorro form a radio telescope with a 13 mile radius. A period buggy is displayed at the railroad ghost town of Steins west of Lordsburg. The Rio Grande has supported agricultural development as well as weary Spanish and Mexican traders for over 400 years. La Posta de Mesilla has served the region since the 1800s and now houses a colorful Mexican restaurant. Top center, left to right: a permanent Vietnam memorial wall has been erected between Williamsburg and Truth or Consequences. City of Rocks State Park between Deming and Silver City is an eerie cluster of huge monoliths. A dense cactus garden has been cultivated at Pancho Villa State Park in Columbus. Center: The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument consists of 40 rooms built into a series of 5 caves. Bottom center, left to right: Sections of The Catwalk National Recreation Trail near Glenwood cling to canyon walls. Elephant Butte Lake State Park provides a host of recreational opportunities from parasailing to four-wheeling.
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 Elephant Butte, 4 miles east of I-25. A full array of water sporting activities, marinas, campsites and lodging are available. Hot mineral baths and therapy can be enjoyed in nearby Truth or Consequences. 505-744-5421 and 505-894-3536
CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARK A city of giant monoliths protruding unexpectedly from the desert floor is located half way between Deming and Silver City, 5 miles east of US 180. 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. Rockhounds meet regularly in the area southeast of Deming for demonstrations, sales and trading. 505-539-2481.
THE 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.
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.
N. M. FARM & RANCH MUSEUM A large and intriguing display of farm and ranch implements from the early Anasazi to modern times. See live milking demonstrations and special presentations. 505-522-4100.
THE RIO GRANDE New Mexico’s lifeline meanders through the Old West communities of Socorro, Truth or Consequences and Las Cruces. It contributed water and food for early travelers and traders along El Camino Real and now supports industry, agriculture, recreation and individual needs for New Mexico’s central corridor.
OLD MESILLA A picturesque and historic Mexican/Old West plaza is surrounded by a stately church and 1800s buildings packed with shopping and dining opportunities. Additional shopping plazas with a charm all their own are continuing to expand along Avenida de Mesilla. 505-524-3262
FORT SELDEN An 1800s cavalry fort that was utilized by the Buffalo Soldiers. A year-round visitor center and living history demonstrations on weekends May through September. Nineteenth century military encampments second Saturdays monthly yearround. 526-8911
THE PLAINS OF ST. AUGUSTINE The largest and highest grassland in North America. 866-854-3217.
THE CIBOLA NATIONAL FOREST – MAGDALENA DISTRICT Made up of the largest collection of historic ranchlands in New Mexico. 505-854-2281.
AREA ATTRACTIONS
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Socorro History and Space Age technology walk hand in hand
SOCORRO HAS
EVOLVED INTO A center for space technology from its humble beginnings as a rest stop on El Camino Real. 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 the far reaches of the universe, 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. Augustine. 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. San Miguel Mission, dating back to as early as 1598, maintains the historic perspective of Socorro and the surrounding region. Spanish colonists had the church built on the trade route between Mexico City and Santa Fe, and it continues to actively serve the parish today. Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument consists of three major sites where Spanish Franciscan missions were build amidst Pueblo Indian settlements in the early 17th century. By the 1670s, however, the entire district was depopulated. Mission walls are still standing at each of the sites and the pueblo of Las Humanas at the Gran Quivira site has been partially excavated. 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 migratory waterfowl. Honking Snow Geese and Sandhill Cranes are among the 377 identified species observed and filmed from unobtrusive decks along the edges of shallow marshlands. The visitor center is open daily year-round. Festival of the Cranes is held mid-November with special programs on migratory birds. The Mineralogical Museum on the university campus houses the state's largest mineral collections including fossils and over 9500 mineral specimens. Annual celebrations bring back the rough and tumble days of early mining. Twelve miles east of San Antonio is the Trinity Site where the first atomic bomb exploded in 1945. The site is open to visitors twice a year. Hikers and picnickers will enjoy the Langmuir Laboratory area in Cibola National Forest. Lightning and thunderstorm research is conducted in July and August. left: Abo is one of three remote Pueblo Indian trade communities in the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument where 17th century Spanish Franciscans erected significant mission church structures. right: Whooping Cranes stop to feed at the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge.
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Community Arts Party. 835-5688 Science Olympiad at N.M. Tech Campus. 835-5678 Battles of Socorro, Civil War Re-enactment. 835-2530 Socorro Women of the West History Trail Parade. 835-0134 Trinity Site at White Sands Missile Range open to the public. 835-0424 Very Large Array guided tours. 835-7000 N.M. State Science Fair at N.M. Tech Gym. 835-5678 “M” Mountain AYSO Soccer Tournament. 835-7273 Socorro Mother’s Day Pow Wow. 881-8847 Conrad Hilton Open Golf Tournament. 835-1550 Relay for Life at Clarke Field. 835-1768 Magdalena Oldtimers Reunion. 854-3365 7th Ann. Socorro Chile Harvest Triathlon. 838-3035 14th Annual Fat Tire Fiesta. 838-3035 12th Annual Enchanted Skies Star Party. 835-0424 18th Annual Festival of the Cranes at Bosque del Apache. 835-2077 Socorro Balloon Rally. 835-2103
DISCOVER
EVENTS
SOCORRO
ATTRACTIONS
Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Visitor center, auto tour, hiking and year-round birding. 16 miles south of Socorro. 838-2120. www.friendsofthebosque.org Cibola National Forest – Magdalena District. Made up of the largest collection of historic ranchlands in New Mexico. 854-2281 Old Kelly Mine. Mine ruins and many wonderful specimens for rockhounds. 3 miles south of Magdalena. 866-854-3217 www.magdalena-nm.com Mineralogical Museum. More than 9,500 mineral specimens. Fossils. 835-5420. www.geoinfo.nmt.edu NM Institute of Mining and Technology. 801 Leroy Pl. 1-800-428-8324 N.M. Performing Arts Series. Call for schedule. 835-5688. www.nmt.edu/~pas/ Plains of St. Augustine. The largest and highest grasslands in North America. 866-854-3217 Trinity Site. Site of world’s first atomic bomb explosion. Open twice a year; the first Saturday in April and October. 479-6124 The Boxcar Museum. Local history, artifacts of Wild West, mining, cattle drives, circa 1885-1930. Located next to AT&SF Railroad Depot. 108 N. Main St. 505-854-2261 www.magdalena-nm.com Very Large Array National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Visitor center, self-guided tours, world’s largest radio-telescope array on the Plains of San Augustin. 835-7000. www.nrao.ed
LOCATION Socorro is located at the junction of 1-25 and US60. Nearby is Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Magdalena is 27 miles west of Socorro on US60. TOUR ROUTE Travel 108 miles west on US60 through Magdalena and the VLA to Quemado; 41 miles south on NM32 past Quemado Lake to Apache Creek; 12 miles west on NM12 to Reserve. OR: Travel south 72 miles on I-25 to Truth or Consequences. MORE INFORMATION Socorro Chamber of Commerce (505) 835-0424 www.socorro-nm.com
Home to... Wildlife Sanctuaries Ancient Ruins and Historical Sites Scientific Research and Education Art Galleries and Performance Arts Technological Advancements New Mexico’s Best Green Chili One of New Mexico’s Best Public Golf Courses
City of Socorro Visitors & Tourism Dept. 505-835-0424 tourism@socorronm.gov www.socorro-nm.com
The Very Large Array National Radio Astronomy Observatory 27 Radio Telescopes 52 miles west of Socorro on Hwy. 60
Visitor Center • Gift Shop
OPEN DAILY 505-835-7410 • www.nrao.edu
Where it All Began... OLD WEST y 1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com Countr SOCORRO
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Truth or Consequences A great place to wake up your senses
THE MEANDERING
RIO GRANDE AND TWO OF NEW MEXICO’S
largest lakes provide incomparable opportunities for recreation and the relief of urban stress. Truth or Consequences struck a deal with Ralph Edwards in 1950, changing its name to that of the famous television host’s game show, but it is most certainly the water that brings people to this desert oasis. Well-developed camping and water sports facilities and bathhouses fed by natural hot springs beckon enthusiasts from across the Southwest. An array of water sporting and camping facilities is 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. There is public access throughout the county for biking, hiking, 4wheeling, motocross, rock hounding, and birding. 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 and ayurvedic science. Apaches and early settlers first recognized the healthful aspects of the hot mineral waters as far back as the 1800s. 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 cluster of deep matates, or corn grinding holes, at Ralph Edwards Riverside Park is evidence of the Indian’s long-term presence. A Veterans Memorial Wall has been permanently erected overlooking the Rio Grande at Williamsburg. Nearby mountains offer scenic byways, the quaint village of Hillsboro and the ghost towns of Kingston, Chloride and Winston.
Apaches and early settlers first recognized the healthful aspects of the hot mineral waters as far back as the 1800's. opposite: Deep matates, or corn grinding holes, on the edge of Ralph Edwards Riverside Park are an indication that Indian peoples have been drawn to the hot springs area for centuries. right: A diverse array of water sports, camping, hiking, four-wheeling and birding are available in the area’s state parks. TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
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Truth or Consequences and Elephant Butte Rejuvenate Your Spirit!
“
Numerous art galleries are also located in Truth or Consequences.
Elephant Butte Inn 47Rooms Overlooking Elephant Butte Lake Pool & Fitness Room Ivory Tusk Tavern & Restaurant Banquet & Meeting Facilities Hwy. 195, Elephant Butte, NM
505.744.5431 www.elephantbutteinn.com
GERONIMO SPRINGS MUSEUM Collection of local artifacts, including arrowheads, fetishes, and Mimbres (black on white) pottery. Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm 211 Main Street Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 505-894-6600 www.geronimotrail.com
RESOURCE DIRECTORY Hodges Corner Restaurant We specialize in home style cooking. Weekends and Holidays. Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Open 7 days, daily buffets, Sat. & Sun. breakfast buffet. Mexican, American and to go orders. 505-744-5626 915 Hwy. 195, Elephant Butte, N.M. 87935 Barber Shop Café Located in Historical Hillsboro. Come and enjoy our great food in an original 1880’s building. 505-895-5283 200 Main Street, Hillsboro, N.M. 88042
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Outdoor
A T T R A C T I O N S
Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Visitor Center, campsites, showers, picnicking and boat launch sites. Fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving. Caballo Lake State Park. Visitor Center, campsites, showers, picnicking and boat launch sites. Fishing and sailing. Percha Dam State Park. Fishing, picnicking, campsites and showers. Ralph Edwards Riverside Park. Downtown Truth or Consequences, picnicking on the banks of the Rio Grande. Rio Grande River. Picnicking, kayaking, fishing, boating, rock hounding, primitive camping, bird and wildlife watching. Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway. Southwest from Truth or Consequences through Hillsboro and Kingston and across Emory Pass to San Lorenzo; and northwest from Truth or Consequences through Elephant Butte, Cuchillo, WinstonChloride and Beaverhead. Emory Pass Scenic Vista. Five-mile trail from NM152 to the lookout tower on Hillsboro Peak. ATTRACTIONS Black Range Ranger District. Camping, hiking, picnicking. 894-6677 Caballo Lake State Park. Boat launch sites, campsites, picnicking and visitor center. 743-3942 Elephant Butte Lake State Park. Campsites, visitor center, water sports and trails. 744-5421 Geronimo Springs Museum. Area history, pottery collections and minerals. 211 Main St. 894-6600 San Felipe Winery. 843-8171 T or C Hot Springs. Indoor tubs, bath houses and saunas. 1-505-894-3536 above: Elephant Butte Lake State Park is one of New Mexico’s leading recreation areas with year-round activities for all ages. Opposite: The bust of Spanish colonizer, Don Juan de Onate, is part of a tribute to the cultures that influenced the Truth or Consequences area and is displayed in the Geronimo Springs Museum.
EVENTS Feb 25-26 26 Mar 27 Apr 2-3 23-24 23-24 29-30 30 May 1 7-8 13-15 Jun 4 11 18-19 Jul 2 Aug 20 Sep 3-5 3-5 9-11
Gathering of the Quilts, T. C. Civic Ctr. (505-744-5472) Pecan Festival, Cuchillo (505-743-3201) Easter Sunrise Service, E. Butte Lake (505-744-5421) N.M. High School Rodeo, T. or C. Old Time Fiddler’s Contest, T. or C. (505-894-1506) Fiesta Golf Tournament, T. or C. (505-894-2603) Fiesta Rodeo, T. or C. (505-894-2477) Fiesta, T. or C. (505-894-2946) Fiesta and Fiesta Rodeo, T. or C. (505-894-2946) Fiesta Open Fishing Tourn., E. Butte Lk. (505-744-5421) Burel Bailey Memorial Trap Shoot (505-894-3536) Winston Spring Fiesta, Winston (505-743-2736) Chili Cook-Off, Elephant Butte Lake (505-894-3264) Junior Open Bass Anglers, E. Butte Lk. (505-744-5421) Fireworks, E. Butte Lk. (505-744-4708 or 744-5421) Lion’s Club Carp Round-Up (505-744-4979) Hillsboro Apple Festival, Hillsboro Hatch Chili Festival, Hatch Elephant Butte 25th Annual Balloon Regatta, Elephant Butte Lake (505-744-4708) 23-25 Elephant Days, Elephant Butte, (505-744-4708) Oct 8-9 Sierra County Fair, Williamsburg (505-894-3536) 14-16 Old Time Fiddler’s Contest, T. or C. (505-894-1506) 29 Pumpkin Bowl, Elephant Butte Lake (505-744-5421) Nov 5 Veteran’s Memorial Park Motorcycle Rally, T. or C. (505-894-3617) 12 Veteran’s Day Car Show, T. or C. (505-894-6900) 16-20 Festival of the Cranes, Bosque Del Apache (505-835-1828) 26 Lion’s Club Yard Sale, Elephant Butte (505-894-7241) Dec 3 Christmas in the Foothills, Hillsboro 3 Christmas Jubilee, T. or C. (505-894-3536) 10 Beachwalk Luminaria Festival & Floating Lights Parade, Elephant Butte Lake (505-744-4708) 11 Drag Boat Races, Elephant Butte Lake, Call for dates: (505-263-6568)
LOCATION Truth or Consequences is located on I-25 by Elephant Butte Lake State Park in the hot springs region of the Rio Grande. Elephant Butte is 5 miles north. 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 of Commerce (505) 894-3536 Elephant Butte Chamber of Commerce (505) 744-4608
Where it All Began... OLD WEST Country 1-800-290-8330
www.oldwestcountry.com
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
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Catron County Reserve, Glenwood, Mogollon, Quemado, Quemado Lake, Datil, Pie Town, Apache Creek
A WORLD OF
M O U N TA I N R E C R E AT I O N A L OPPORTUNITIES SURROUNDS the villages of Catron County. Wilderness trails, trout streams and small recreational lakes are scattered across massive tracts of pinon, juniper, and ponderosa forests. The Catwalk National Recreation Trail east of Glenwood includes picnic grounds among huge cottonwood trees and long steel walkways clinging to the sides of narrow bluffs. From Glenwood, travelers can take a side trip on a narrow paved road that winds into the mountains to the mining ghost town of Mogollon. A well maintained dirt road from Mogollon skirts the northern edge of the Gila Wilderness through excellent fishing and camping sites before circling back to Reserve. Reserve is absorbed in its colorful past that includes El Fuego Baca, (El Fuego means “The Fire� who reportedly took on 80 Texas cowboys in a 36-hour shootout resulting from abuse of local Hispanics. The abuse stopped and the 19-year old Baca returned to Socorro unscathed. A bronze sculpture of Baca is in progress. A statue and museum are planned.
left: Catwalks cross boulders and cling to the sides of narrow canyon cliffs at Catwalk National Recreation Trail near Glenwood. opposite: Below the Snow Lake camping and recreation area, Snow Creek immediately flows into the limited access Gila Wilderness area.
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UNITED COUNTRY AMERICAN WEST PROPERTIES, INC. We specialize in offering a variety of the finest properties available in Western New Mexico, from Hunting and Agricultural properties to Homes, Mountain Cabins and Forest In Holdings. Let us show you why New Mexico is called the Land of Enchantment. P.O. Box 99•Datil, NM 87821•Office: 505-772-5333
www.amerwestproperties.com • www.unitedcountry.com/datil/NM
FRISCO STABLES Art – Antiques – Collectibles Unique gift items, something for everyone. Fantastic Hispanic Art by well known local artist Jose Andres Giron. P.O. Box 545 • Reserve, NM 87830 505-533-6968 www.artegiron.com
At Apache Creek on NM12, there are campgrounds and an archeological interpretive site. From Apache Creek, scenic NM32 leads to Quemado Lake with well-developed camp facilities. Electric motor boats are allowed. Horseback riding and wilderness pack trips are available throughout the communities. EVENTS May 14 TBA Jul 4 TBA TBA TBA Aug TBA Sep 10 TBA TBA Nov TBA Dec 24
Spring Fiesta des Artes. 539-2711 Cinco de Mayo Celebration in Reserve. 539-2711 July 4th Celebrations in Glenwood, Quemado and Reserve. 539-2711 Frisco Cowbelles’ Annual BBQ, Western Fine Arts Auction & Dance. 539-2711 Catron County Heritage Festival in Reserve. 539-2711 Luna Pioneer Days and Rodeo. 539-2711 Catron County Fair and Rodeo. 539-2711 Pie Town Pie Festival. 539-2711 Scorpion Sting Endurance Ride, Glenwood. 539-2711 Raspberry Festival in Reserve. 539-2711 5th Annual Glenwood Open Cowboy Golf Tournament. 539-2711 Live Nativity and Town Lighting. 539-2711
ATTRACTIONS Alma. Ghost town 7 miles north of Glenwood. The Catwalk. Trail over suspended bridges in White Water Canyon. 5 miles east of Glenwood. 539-2711 Clairmont. Ghost town 19 miles northeast of Glenwood. 533-6922 Mogollon. Ghost town 13 miles northeast of Glenwood. Snow Lake. In the Gila National Forest. Camping and fishing. 47 miles northeast of Glenwood. WS Cemetary. WS Ranch B & B, Alma, 7 miles north of Glenwood. 539-2513 Cooney’s Tomb. Alma, 7 miles north of Glenwood. Quemado Lake. Camping and fishing, 11 miles south of Quemado.
LOCATION Quemado is located on US60 with Quemado Lake just off NM32 between Quemado and Apache Creek. Apache Creek and Reserve are located on NM12. Glenwood is on US180 with Mogollon to the east on NM159. TOUR Travel 36 miles south on US180 to Glenwood, with a side trip on NM159 to Mogollon. Travel 22 miles south on US180 to Buckhorn and another 11 miles to the Cliff/Gila area. MORE INFORMATION Catron County Chamber (505) 533-6116 Glenwood Chamber (505)539-2711
WHITE WATER MOTEL Enjoy the Whitewater River from your balcony. Relax and enjoy vacationing at our retreat in the rugged mountains and forests surrounding Glenwood, New Mexico. P.O. Box 158 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2581 www.gilanet.com/whitewatermotel THE WS RANCH BED & BREAKFAST Established in 1881 this historic ranch in Alma, NM now welcomes guests and horses. Experience frontier history and tradition, and unwind in rustic yet elegant bunkhouse accommodations. HC 61 Box 170 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2513 www.wslandandcattlecompany.com HIDDEN SPRINGS INN Absolute Comfort and affordable luxury in Catron County. Just 7 miles west of Reserve on Hwy. 180. Book your reservation on-line today. 1 ⁄4 mile south of Hwy. 12 & 180 intersection, Reserve, NM 87830 • 505-533-6146 www.thehiddenspringsinn.com QUEMADO LAND & CATTLE COMPANY Specializing in Recreational and Mountain Vacation home sites with utilities in a gated master planned community. Deed restricted, world class hunting and fishing. Owner financing available. P.O. Box 188 • Quemado, NM 87829 505-773-4590 • beverly@gilanet.com www.quemadolake.com APACHE RV PARK Hunting, fishing and lots of outdoor enjoyment. Located 9 miles north of Reserve in the heart of elk country Showers,laundry, propane and pull through spaces. HC 62 Box 650A • Reserve, NM 87830 505-533-6166 GLENWOOD REALTY Ranches - Farms - Residential - Commercial. An experienced team for all your Real Estate needs. Darrel Allred, Qualifying Broker. Misty Riegel, Associate Broker. P.O. Box 38 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2711 • Fax: 505-539-2722 www.realestate4newmexico.com Email: info@realestate4newmexico.com
Cliff, Gila & Buckhorn A beautiful area for outdoor enthusiasts.
THE GILA RIVER
BREAKS OUT OF THE MOGOLLON MOUNTAINS INTO A LUSH FARMING valley and grassland region near the villages of Gila, Cliff and Buckhorn. Birding, fishing, hiking, horseback riding and secluded areas with outstanding vistas are the ingredients that attract both local and outside interest to this sparsely populated area. Government and privately protected riparian areas provide excellent bird and wildlife sanctuaries along the river and adjoining drainages. Casitas de Gila has successfully promoted its remote guesthouses nationally for people seeking a little solitude in a secluded canyon full of wildlife. In addition, nearby Bill Evans Lake offers trout fishing and primitive camping. Rolling grasslands in the Cliff/Buckhorn area abruptly give way to the rugged mountains encompassed by the nation’s first wilderness area. Deer and antelope still roam the foothills and steal apples from local gardens, indicating that all is well in the natural balance. Rocky Mountain Big Horn sheep have been reintroduced and are seasonally evident in the rugged
above: A valley of cottonwood trees and farmland follows the Gila River from the Mogollon Mountains to the Arizona border. opposite: Fall colors at Bear Creek near the Casitas de Gila Guesthouses and Gallery is a prime example of the beauty to be found in the Cliff-Gila area.
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Photo by Becky O’Connor courtesy of Casitas de Gila Guesthouses and Gallery.
terrain. Mogollon Vista has secured a shared riparian area in the middle of its development near Cliff to attract wildlife and to enhance and promote the natural attributes of the land. Unique horseback experiences are provided at the Double E Guest Ranch near Gila, including cattle roundups, mounted shooting clinics, horsemanship skills clinics, nature rides and cowgirl camps. Ancient cultures hunted, gathered, fished and tried their hands at primitive farming in the area. The Kwilleylekia Ruins northeast of Cliff are believed to be the last great pueblo of the Salado People, inhabited from AD 1425 to 1575 with over 300 rooms and buildings up to four stories.
EVENTS
Grant County Fair. Last weekend in September 29th through Oct 2nd
ATTRACTIONS Bill Evans Lake. Fishing and primitive camping, 12 miles south of Cliff. Aldo Leopold Vista. picnic and wilderness interpretive site, 6 miles north of Buckhorn. Turkey Creek. primitive trout stream northeast of Gila.
LOCATION Gila is located on the Gila River at the junction of NM211 and NM153, two miles north of US180. Cliff is located at the junction of the Gila River and US180. Buckhorn straddles US180 on the grasslands below the Mogollon Mountains. TOUR Travel 26 miles south on US180 to Silver City MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 505-538-3785 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org
Specializing in Gila/San Francisco River Valley and Secluded Rural Properties.
A
Dale Spurgeon, Broker Action REALTY
8412 Hwy. 180 W P. O. Box 408 Cliff, NM 88028
Toll Free 1-888-874-9891 actionrealtynm@starband.net • www.actionrealtynm.com
Doug Baird, Sales Associate 505-533-6838
LAST CHANCE LIQUORS PIZZA PRO 7627 Hwy. 180 W. • Buckhorn, N.M. (505) 535-4428 COUNTRY GARDENS CAFE´ 8394 Hwy. 180 W. • Cliff, N.M. (505) 535-2545 Mon. - Tues. 8am-8pm, Wed. - Sat 8am-2pm WESTERN NEW MEXICO TELEPHONE wnmt.com Customer Care - 1-800-535-2330 Repairs - 1-800-535-0611 CLIFF, GILA & BUCKHORN
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Silver City One of the Nation’s Top Small Towns
EVOLVING FROM
A LATE 1800S MINING CAMP TO A BUSTLING MECCA FOR art and recreation, Silver City’s 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. Seemingly perfect weather and a host of outdoor attractions make Silver City an excellent choice for both visiting and relocating. A Billy the Kid-era cabin donated by movie director Ron Howard from the movie The Missing opens the door to the historic downtown district packed full of restaurants, galleries, museums, day spas, coffee shops, and boutiques. The Victorian architecture, chapels and churches add the final touch to this special setting. Perched on the edge of a three million acre national forest with over 1500 miles of trails, recreation is an important element of Silver City’s lifestyle and certainly its biggest tourist attraction. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, surrounded on three sides by the first wilderness area designated by Congress, offers not only a glimpse into the ancient Mogollon culture, but endless opportunities for camping, hiking, pack trips, horseback riding, fishing, biking or simply a leisurely drive through magnificent scenic vistas. A monument recognizing the Apache chief, Geronimo, who was born at the headwaters of the Gila River, has been erected at the Gila Cliff Dwellings visitor center. The center highlights the prehistoric cultures that inhabited the cliffs and pithouses of the region and provides information on the history, geology, flora and fauna of the area. Over 20 birding areas have been designated in a variety of habitats surrounding Silver City that attract 339 species, including 10 species of hummingbirds. A hummingbird festival is held annually near Lake Roberts.
Silver City is consistantly rated as one of the Best Places to Live and Retire in the USA!
opposite: An ancient village was housed within five caves at the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. right: An artifact from the Mimbres Culture that flourished in the area during the 12th and 13th centuries. SILVER CITY
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Lake Roberts, Bill Evans Lake and Bear Canyon Lake, the historic village of Pinos Altos, the peaceful Mimbres River Valley, developed and undeveloped hot springs, City of Rocks State Park and the breath-taking Chino open-pit mine are scattered across the immediate area. 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 Warm Springs Apache Pow Wow make Silver City a major events destination. An array of cultural, sporting and educational functions fills remaining gaps. Ft. Bayard, an 1863 U.S. infantry post just east of Silver City, housed the “Medal of Honor” buffalo soldiers and is now a state hospital with officer’s quarters still in use. The fort has been designated a National Landmark and includes a national cemetery and buffalo soldier statue. Silver City’s four-year university with masters programs, continuing education classes, intercollegiate sports and a strong arts program is a powerful contributor to the community. Beginning as a teachers college in the late 1800s, its education programs continue to be its primary focus. A great place for urban stress relief, Silver City’s shops, museums and galleries are within walking distance from bed & breakfast facilities, a turn of the century hotel and excellent day spa facilities.
Where it All Began... OLD WEST ry 1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com Count OWT 20
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top: 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.
ART SI LVE R CITY R IVALS MAJOR MAR KETS
& C U LT U R E RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE NATION’S CULTURALLY PROGRESSIVE small communities, Silver City broke into the top three slots of Modern Maturity’s Best Small Towns in America, was listed by John Villani as one of The Hundred Best Small Art Towns in America and chosen by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in its Dozen Distinctive Destinations-2002. The strong visual and performing arts activities, museums and the renovated historic district have created an end-destination worthy of America’s culture-hungry travelers. A wide range of galleries and creative 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 season that includes 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. On the local level, community and university drama presentations and a melodrama series keep performers active. 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 permanent display of artifacts from the intriguing 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 a commitment to enduring architecture. Silver City is a showcase for the region’s visual and performing arts. Area galleries include (clockwise from top) Lois Duffy Studio, Leyba & Ingalls Eclectic Art Supplies & Gallery and Elemental Arts. The Epic of Gilgamesh is performed by local actors at the Western New Mexico University Fine Arts Theater. The famed potters from Mata Ortiz, Mexico, sell their wares and demonstrate the art of pottery making at the annual Fiesta de la Olla. An enthusiastic Youth Mural Program is supported by area artists, clubs, the arts council, the DWI Task Force and the community as a whole.
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CENTURY 21 Thompson Realty
607 North Hudson • Silver City, NM 88061
505-538-0021 • 800-358-0021 Real Estate for Your World
www.silver-nm.com
SILVER CITY EVENTS Jan
7-8 7-9 21
Mimbres Region
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Arts council • 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.
Feb
5 10 12
1201 Pope St. • Silver City, NM
505-538-2505
19
www.mimbresarts.org
25
888-758-7289
Mar
Museum Gift Shop In the H.B. Ailman House
Apr
Books & Regional Gifts
8 15 22
505-388-5721 www.silvercitymuseum.org
May
27 7 18
F ULL S ERVICE S ALON FACIALS • M ASSAGE • S PA • G ALLERY L ODGING • Y OGA • M ANICURES A CUPUNCTURE • M ICRODERMABRASION O RIENTAL M EDICINE
Call for Appointment: (505) 534-1600 • Fax: (505) 534-1256 101 N. Cooper Street Silver City, N.M, 88061 www.cienegaspasalon.com 2005 OLD WEST TRAILS
1
Tues.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.-Sun. 10:00-4:00 Closed Monday
312 W. Broadway, Silver City, NM
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Silver City
the art of relaxation...
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27-29 Jun
Jul
28 4-7 10-12 18 4
8-9 15-17 Aug 13-14 20-21
Greg Brown, Folk Series at the Opera House, Pinos Altos. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 2nd Annual Red Paint Powwow. 538-3785 Gregory Popovich Comedy Pet Theater. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Grant County Community Concert Association: Westwind Brass. 538-0203 Harry Manx, Folk Series at the Opera House, Pinos Altos. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Annual Mardi Gras Dinner and Auction. 388-2331 MRAC Gallery Opening Reception for Judith Hilmer. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 A Chocolate Fantasia in Historic Downtown District. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Celtic Double Bill: Teada and Cathy Ryan. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 “Go Figure.” Statewide Exhibition juried by Delmas Howe. 538-6517 Robin and Linda Williams. Folk Series at the Opera House, Pinos Altos. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Ft. Bayard Historic Society Annual Tea. 388-4477 Grant County Community Concert Association: Antonio Pompa-Baldi & Emanuela Friscioni, Duo Pianists. 538-0203 “PHONK” Scrap Arts Music. 538-2505 or 1-888758-7289 MRAC Gallery Opening for Ann Simonsen & Jeff Turner. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Melanie Hersch. Folk Series at the Opera House, Pinos Altos. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Juried Student Art Show at WNMU’s Francis McCray Gallery. 538-6517 19th Ann. Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race. 388-3222 8th Annual Celebration of Spring in Historic Downtown Silver City. 534-1700 Grant County Community Concert Association: Robert Post, Physical Comedian. 538-0203 10th Annual Silver City Blues Festival. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Ft Bayard Run. 388-3475 Wild, Wild West Pro Rodeo. 388-2586 2nd Annual Viva Santa Clara Fiesta. 537-2443 2nd Ever Millie and Billy Ball at the Wherehouse. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Independence Day Parade in Historic Downtown Silver City. 534-1700 Frontier Days Rodeo. 534-5030 Fiesta de la Olla. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 25th Annual Gun Show. 388-2360 Annual St. Vincent de Paul Fiesta. 538-9373
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 mid $70’s. Definitely a place to explore!
501 Silver Heights Blvd. • Silver City, NM Sep TBA Annual Billy Casper Golf Tournament. 538-5041 TBA Annual Gila Thunder Run. 388-2427 3-5 12th Annual San Vicente Art Fair in Big Ditch Park. 534-4401 Annual Gem & Mineral Show. 538-3216 16-18 Ft. Bayard Historic Days. 388-4477 24 Frula Balkan Folk Dance Group. 538-2505 Oct 8-11 Weekend at the Galleries. 538-2505 or 1-888-758-7289 Nov 1-2 Dia de los Muertos. 538-2505 26 15th Annual MainStreet Lighted Christmas Parade. 534-1700 Dec TBA Annual Festival of the Trees. 534-0261 TBA 21st Annual Victorian Christmas Evening. 538-5921
505-538-2931
http.//www.zianet.com/cber
TheCelebrating Palace Hotel 100 Years Located in the downtown historic district. Reminiscent of a small hotel in the European Tradition. • Affordable Rates • 18 Rooms & Suites • Continental Breakfast 106 W. Broadway Silver City, NM 88061
ATTRACTIONS Big Ditch Park. Park formed when flood lowered Main St. 55 feet. In town. Fort Bayard. U.S. Infantry post built in 1863. Housed Buffalo Soldiers. 10 miles east of Silver City. Gila National Forest/Silver City Ranger District. 3005 E. Camino del Bosque. 388-8201. www.fs.fed.us/r3/gila Kneeling Nun. Natural monolith resembling praying nun. 15 miles east of Silver City. Mimbres Region Arts Council. Scheduled events held throughout the year. 758-7289. www.mrac.cc Royal Scepter Mineral Museum. Rock shop, jewelry and gifts. 1805 Little Walnut. 538-9001. www.zianet.com/royal-scepter San Vicente Art Walks. Self-guided tour. Call for brochure with map showing galleries and studios within walking distance in downtown Silver City. 1-800-548-9378 Silver City Museum. Area history, Indian artifacts, mining exhibits and Victorian furnishings. 312 W. Broadway. 538-5921. www.silvercitymuseum.org Western N. M. University Museum. Local and natural history including world’s largest exhibit of Mimbres pottery. 1000 W. College. 538-6386. www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm
LOCATION Silver City is at the junction of US180 and NM90. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument is north on NM15. TOUR Travel 44 miles southwest on NM90 and US70 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
505-388-1811
www.zianet.com/palacehotel
QUALITY
HOLRAY Construction Ray Sytch
505-388-1524 Email: holray@gilanet.com
WORKMANSHIP
Holiday Inn Express 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
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Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway Pinos Altos, Fort Bayard, Lake Roberts, Gila Hot Springs, Mimbres, San Lorenzo
THE TRAIL OF THE
MOUNTAIN SPIRITS SCENIC BYWAY TRAVERSES THE rugged mountains and canyons of Southwest New Mexico, winds through peaceful farming valleys and historic villages and skirts around the edge of a massive world-class mining operation. It highlights the eras of prehistoric cultures, nomadic Apache warriors, early settlers and miners and the Buffalo Soldiers who sought to keep the peace. The trail is a series of breathtaking vistas and it is a timeline of cultural significance. Starting in the historic mountain village of Pinos Altos, the discovery of gold in 1859 created a boomtown. Today, the gold is gone, but the Old West character remains. Memorabilia and artifacts of gun fighters, Apache warriors and the ancient Mimbres culture are displayed in local establishments. A replica of Fort Cobre, a log cabin schoolhouse and the old Hearst Church Art Gallery reminisce bygone times. NM15 takes the traveler deep into the three-million acre Gila National Forest. The road above: The Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic byway offers numerous breathtaking vistas of the Gila and Aldo Leopold Wilderness Areas. opposite: At the Gila Cliff dwellings visitor center, a monument recognizing the birthplace of Apache Chief Geronimo was blessed by his great-grandson Harlyn and wife Karen Geronimo.
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Bear Creek Motel & Cabins 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.
winds past campgrounds and wilderness vistas to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. A visitor center explains the life of the ancient Mogollon culture that inhabited the area. The byway backtracks to picturesque Sapillo Creek on NM 35 and circles around Lake Roberts. Sandstone cliffs, marshes, campgrounds, lodges and an abundance of hiking, photo and birding opportunities create a year-round attraction. Crossing the Continental Divide, the byway drops into the Mimbres River farming valley with good food and more photo opportunities. The church at San Lorenzo was built in the latter 1800s. NM152 passes the Santa Rita open pit copper mine that initially mined high-grade ore for the Mexican mint. Today, mountains have literally been moved for the red metal. The final stop on US180 to Silver City is Ft. Bayard Hospital. Established in 1863 as a center of operations for the Buffalo Soldiers, it is now a National Landmark with a national cemetery, game preserve and a Buffalo Soldier statue. EVENTS Jun Jul Oct
11 23 1
505-388-4501 888-388-4515 P.O. Box 53082 Pinos Altos, NM 88053
www.bearcreekcabins.com
BUCKHORN SALOON & OPERA HOUSE Serving Fine Food & Wine Steak • Seafood • Chicken Burgers • S a l a d s • D e s s e r t s
Saloon Opens ✦ 3 pm Dinner ✦ 6 -10 pm Closed Sundays
505.538.9911 7 Miles North of Silver City On Highway 15 in Historic Pinos Altos
Spirit Canyon Lodge & Cafe Birding • Fishing • Hiking Forest Trails • Indian Ruins Ghost Towns • Hot Springs Gila Cliff Dwellings
7th Annual Pinos Altos Art Fair. 388-4202 2nd Annual Backyard Hummingbird Festival. Email HBNM@gilanet.com Annual Pinos Altos October Fiesta fund-raiser for Pinos Altos Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department. 538-0204
684 Hwy. 35, Lake Roberts
505-536-9459
ATTRACTIONS Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. Cliff dwelling ruins from the 13th century. 44 miles north of Silver City. 536-9461 Greyfeather Lodge. Hummingbird banding, birding, fishing and stargazing. 28 miles north of Silver City. 536-3206. www.greyfeathers.com Lake Roberts. Camping and trout fishing. 40 miles north of Silver City. Lightfeather Hot Spring. Near Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center. 30 minute walk includes 2 river crossings. 536-9461 Trail of the Mountain Spirits Scenic Byway. Loops north on NM15 to Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Monument, southeast on NM35, and west on NM154 and US180. Hearst Church. Seasonal museum and art gallery. Built in 1898 with Hearst money. In town. Pinos Altos Melodrama Theater. Adjacent to the Buckhorn Saloon in the Pinos Altos Opera House. Great fun! Original melodramas. Call for seasonal schedule. 388-3848
LOCATION The scenic side trip loops north from Silver City and includes forest vistas, cliff dwellings, lakes, farmlands, historic villages, forts and mining operations. TOUR Travel north from Silver City on NM15 through Pinos Altos to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.Travel east on NM35 past Lake Roberts and through the Mimbres Valley. Travel west on NM152 past Santa Rita copper pit and on US180 past Ft. Bayard and return to Silver City MORE INFORMATION Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 505-538-3785 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org
www.spiritcanyon.com info@spiritcanyon.com
THE CATTLE GUARD RESTAURANT Enjoy American & Mexican Meals, Beer & Wine in the warm abiance of a real log structure. 11am - 8pm Thursday-Monday 3668 Hwy. 35 (Mile Marker 11 on Hwy. 35) 505.536.3066 LAKE ROBERTS CABINS & GENERAL STORE Comfy Cabins, Beautiful Surroundings. Hike in the Gila National Forest, Hunt, Fish, Star Gaze, Go Birding...or Just Relax in the Mountains. Easy Drive from Tucson, El Paso or Las Cruces, but worlds away! 505.536.9929 • bokydd@gilanet.com TIM DONOVAN In the Mimbres Tim Donavan knows Land and Homes! A Real Estate professional whose experience will simplify your search for just the right property.
tim@smithrealestate.com Office: 505.536.3870 Cell: 505.534.7955
Where it All Began... OLD WEST 1-800-290-8330
www.oldwestcountry.com
Country
TRAIL OF THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS SCENIC BYWAY
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Lordsburg The real thing: Taste the true flavor of the Old West
THE OLD WEST
above: An old stage coach is among thousands of Old West artifacts displayed at the railroad ghost town of Steins. right: A Tlaloc figurine was found in a cave near the Mexican border and is on display at the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture in Santa Fe. opposite: Several buildings remain of the authentic and often rowdy ghost town of Shakespear, just south of Lordsburg.
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Photo by Doug Kahn courtesy Museum of Indian Arts and Culture/Laboratory of Anthropology. Image #26562/11 www.miaclab.org
GHOST TOWNS OF THE LORDSBURG AREA KEEP AN EXCITING CHAPTER OF American history alive and accessible. Shakespeare to the south is the most authentic ghost town in the west and the tales of “thievin’, cheatin’ and hangin’” are periodically reenacted and published. Steins to the west is a railroad town that is a total delight to visit. A host of dignitaries are given tribute in the Lordsburg-Hidalgo County Museum. Elizabeth Garrett, blind daughter of legendary Sheriff Pat Garrett, penned parts of the New Mexico state song in Lordsburg. Charles Lindbergh landed in the “Spirit of St. Louis” and dedicated the Lordsburg airport in 1927. There are tidbits of information you won’t find anywhere else about silent cowboy movie star Tom Mix, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor and territorial governor and Ben Hur author Lew Wallace. Artwork in the tiny village of Rodeo, southwest of Lordsburg, will amaze you without breaking your retirement portfolio.
Rodeo is also the gateway to the Chiricahua Mountains and the location of Geronimo’s surrender. The Lordsburg area was an overlap of ancient cultures. Mimbres and Casas Grandes treasures were found in caves near the Mexican border, including the bestpreserved hunting net made of human hair ever found in the Americas. The net measures 151 feet in length and required the hair from 66 to 67 Indians. A colorful Tlaloc figurine was also found in the caves. Made of yucca stalk, the figurine appears to have been a rain effigy. EVENTS Jan TBA Jul 4 Aug TBA TBA Dec 2 Oct thru May Oct TBA
Lions Club Gun Show. 542-9864 July 4th Activities and 5K Run. 542-9864 The Ranch Rodeo. 542-9864 Hidalgo County Fair. 542-9864 Annual Lighted Parade and Moonlight Madness. 542-9864 Granite Gap Ghost Mining Camp. 495-5012 St. Joseph’s Annual Bazaar. 542-9864
ATTRACTIONS
Shakespeare Ghost Town. Open monthly for guided tours. Call for schedule. 2.5 miles southwest of Lordsburg. 542-9034 Steins. Railroad ghost town located 20 miles southwest of Lordsburg. Open 363 days a year. 542-9791
LOCATION Lordsburg is located on I-10. Nearby are 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
Where it All Began... OLD WEST ry 1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com Count LORDSBURG
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ROGER MCKASSON
MAKING RODEO, NEW MEXICO HOME “I WANT TO BE KNOWN FOR A VARIETY OF STYLES and subjects, not just a cookie cutter production line,” states Roger McKasson, artist and studio/gallery owner in the tiny southwest art community of Rodeo, New Mexico. He works with acrylics, oils, watercolors and pastels for his paintings and drawings, and he is an accomplished bronze sculptor. “Like all artists, I want to leave a mark through my art that will be appreciated by future generations.” Roger’s primary subject is the female figure. “I like the poses and the expressions that women can create as well as the variety of colors that are available to their subject matter. I create a light softness with a watercolor technique that I developed for my style. My watercolors have an almost pastel quality to them.” “Most of my images are of a minimalist style. I believe it is the pose and the expression of the subject that creates the composition of my figurative paintings, not how much clutter I can put in the background. Think about it! When you see a beautiful woman in a room do you look at her or the way the room is decorated? I leave the decorations out or include only that which is needed to enhance the figure and the mood.” “For landscapes, I like to paint in oils. Since I love bright colors, I recently have been working with those that can be used to create places you might find in a Greek Isle setting. I have noticed how southwestern architecture and that of the Greek Isles, with the exception of color, are nearly the same. One uses tans and the other whites for the exteriors but the architectural style is strikingly similar.” Reflecting his capabilities as a sculptor, the Lordsburg/Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce commissioned McKasson to make a bronze sculpture for New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson. The special edition of the work, titled “Spirit Woman,” can be seen in the Governor’s Santa Fe office. Roger’s subjects include women from all walks of life and landscapes of Taos Pueblo, the Greek Isles and elsewhere. His bronzes are of Native American images, African Americans, Irish dancers, angels, fairies, mermaids, an Amazon woman, a woman in a meditative pose, young girls enjoying their youth, and the Lady of the Lake holding King Arthur’s sword, Excalibur! A nationally advertised artist, since 1987 McKasson’s work has been featured in such publications as Palm Springs Life, Art Gallery International, Southwest Art, American Art Review, Art Life Arizona and numerous local publications. His work has appeared in gallery and art shows in Malibu, Pacific Palisades, Tarzana, La Jolla, and Palm Desert, California, and Arcosanti, Bisbee, Sedona and Tubac, Arizona. McKasson is currently represented by Cobalt Galleries in Tubac, Arizona, and the Charles Hecht Galleries in Tarzana and La Jolla, California. He earned a BA degree and completed course work toward an MA degree in Anthropology from California State University in Sacramento. Roger is a people person and welcomes visitors to his studio/gallery in Rodeo. Rodeo is located on NM90 south of Interstate 10 near Arizona’s Chiricahua Mountains and the Geronimo surrender site.
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G HOST H ISTORY ABOU N DS
TOW N S MOGOLLON (right, top) 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. SHAKESPEARE (right, center) 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. STEINS (right, bottom) 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. 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 NM27, 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 NM52, 38 miles northwest of Truth or Consequences.. For more information call 1-800-831-9487. from the top: Old West ghost towns include the mining town of Mogollon above Glenwood, Shakespeare, the authentic miningtown and Butterfield stage stop south of Lordsburg, and Steins, a railroad town west of Lordsburg GHOST TOWNS
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Deming Great weather, pure water and unique events
THE HIGH DESERT
COMMUNITY OF DEMING HAS A CLIMATE THAT IS GREAT FOR OUTDOOR activities and for making wine. Rock hounding is a favorite pastime and nature trails lead to the rugged mountain habitat of an imported Persian ibex population. The prehistoric cultures of the region, military operations, early agriculture activities and the arrival of settlers on the Butterfield trail are aptly portrayed in a spacious museum, and a self-guided walking tour highlights Deming’s historic buildings. The arts, pure water, year-round golf, access to Mexico and four state parks and a host of festivals and events keep the area on track for both visitors and locals. The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum has developed an extraordinary collection of local history with artifacts from the ancient Mimbres and Casas Grandes cultures and memorabilia from early frontiersmen and military operations. Collections of gems, minerals and geodes are on permanent display. If gems and minerals are your passion, you will also enjoy Rockhound State Park and visitor center 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, fiestas and tournaments at Deming’s 18-hole golf course.
above: An impressive collection of artifacts from the ancient Mimbres culture is displayed at the Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. right: A polychrome pot from the Casas Grandes culture is part of another museum collection.
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The Deming Duck Races should be included in your list of quality of life experiences, with a purse for winning ducks, and for everyone else, a week of parades, outhouse races, contests, and social events. 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 utilized the first planes and ground support vehicles ever used for military purposes. 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. EVENTS Mar Apr May Jul Aug Sep Oct Dec
9 10-13 12-13 9 17 1 4 25-28 18 5-9 15-16 16 11
Raid day Memorial Service. Pancho Villa State Park Deming Gem & Mineral Rockhound Roundup. 546-0348 Camp Furlong Days. Pancho Villa State Park Smok’n Oldies Car Show. 546-6243 90th Old Timers Celebration. 546-3200 Cinco de Mayo. 546-0494 Fireworks Display in Deming. Fair Grounds Great American Duck Race. 544-3483 St. Ann’s Fiesta. 546-3343 Southwestern New Mexico State Fair. 546-0177 St. Clair Wine Festival. 546-9324 Czechoslovakian Klobase Festival. Green Tea. Museum Christmas Light Parade. 544-2855
ATTRACTIONS City of Rocks State Park. Rock formations formed from old volcanic ash flow. Campsites, botanical garden and visitor center. 30 miles northwest of Deming. 536-2800 Deming Arts Center. National and regional art shows. 100 S. Gold. 5463663 Deming Luna Mimbres Museum. Minerals, gems, frontier military history and Mimbres exhibits. 301 S. Silver. 546-2382. www.zianet.com/deming Rockhound State Park. Collect up to 15 lbs of rocks. Campsites and visitor center. 14 miles southeast of Deming. 546-6182 St. Clair Winery. 546-9324. www.stclairvineyards.com
LOCATION Deming is located on I-10. Nearby are Rockhound and Pancho Villa State Parks and Spring Canyon Park. TOUR ROUTE On I-10, travel 59 miles east to Las Cruces or 60 miles west to Lordsburg. On US180, travel 44 miles north from Deming to Silver City or travel south 31 miles on NM 11 to Columbus and another 3 miles to Palomas, Mexico. MORE INFORMATION Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce (505) 546-2674 www.demingchamber.com
Where it All Began... OLD WEST y 1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com Countr DEMING
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Columbus & Palomas, Mexico
Photo by Luis Perez
A historic international incident…great shopping and dining!
THE INFAMOUS
F I R S T- E V E R AT TA C K O N U.S. SOIL LED BY GENERAL Francisco “Pancho” Villa in 1916 remains a subject of debate in Columbus, New Mexico, and its sister community of Palomas, Mexico. American soldiers under the command of General John “Blackjack” Pershing pursued Villa for 11 months in the unsuccessful punitive expedition that utilized the first mechanized artillery equipment and the first aero squadron for military purposes. The mission to capture Villa provided invaluable experience for America’s subsequent entry into World War I. Pancho Villa State Park preserves buildings and artifacts related to the Villa raid. An impressive cactus garden surrounds Coot’s Hill that now serves as an RV park and campground. The Columbus Historical Museum and gift shop is located in the once-operating Southern Pacific railroad depot that now exposes memorabilia from that time period. New Mexico’s only 24-hour port of entry connects these two communities for a historic tour and memorable shopping and dining experience. Affordable medical and dental facilities in Palomas also attract Americans.
above: The Casas Grandes ruins in Mexico and the pottery makers of Mata Ortiz can be accessed through the port of entry at Palomas. opposite: The Columbus museum and Pancho Villa State Park highlight the Mexican general’s raid on Columbus and the ensuing campaign by General “Blackjack” Pershing.
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Village of Columbus Chamber of Commerce.. invites you to come and Discover Columbus! (505) 531-2663 • (505) 531-2479
Photo by Luis Perez
Proud to be locally owned and operated
Columbus/Palomas provides a gateway to Old Mexico and its ancient Paquime ruins, just 2 hours away. Visitors can experience the culture of Casas Grandes and witness the art form of the famous Mata Ortiz potters.
San Jose Grocery Store Roberto & Isabel Gutierrez 505-531-2704
El Camino Realty Anne Marie Beck 505-531-2217 • 505-544-1029
Columbus LP Gas Bucky & Judy Parent 505-531-2577
Las Casita Restaurant Home-style cooking & open daily 505-531-2371
The Patio Café Home of Terri’s famous burgers 505-531-2495
Columbus Service Center Western Union - Over night parking 505-531-7079 • 505-531-7141
Pancho Villa Café Mexican Food and Daily Specials 505-531-0555
TumbleWeed Theater & Dining Please call for play dates & dinner reservations. On site catering & facility rental. Aspiring actors welcomed! 505-531-2311
Sun Crest Inn Quality and Affordable 505-531-2155
San Jose Fina Gas Station Gas and More! 24-hour bank card pumps. 505-531-2410
Coming Soon... Saloon & Dance Hall - Pizza Parlor - Car Wash Columbus Historical Society Museum (505) 531-2620 Pancho Villa State Park - RV & Campsites (505) 531-2711
EVENTS Jan Jul Aug Dec
TBA 4 TBA TBA 2
Oct May
OctTBA
Lions Club Gun Show. 542-9864 July 4th Activities and 5K Run. 542-9864 The Ranch Rodeo. 542-9864 Hidalgo County Fair. 542-9864 Annual Lighted Parade and Moonlight Madness. 542-9864 Granite Gap Ghost Mining Camp. 495-5012 St. Joseph’s Annual Bazaar. 542-9864
ATTRACTIONS Columbus Historical Society Museum. Southern Pacific Railroad Depot. 531-2620 Pancho Villa State Park. Botanical garden, camping and visitor center. In town. 531-2711 Tumbleweed Theater. 120 shows yearly, call for schedule. Delicious gourmet dinners served. 531-2311 U.S. and Mexico Port of Entry. 24-hour crossing Columbus / Palomas. 3 miles south of Columbus. 531-2686
LOCATION Columbus, New Mexico, and Palomas, Chihuahua, are located on the Mexican border south of Deming. TOUR ROUTE Travel north 31 miles on NM11, returning to Deming, and east 59 miles on I-25 to Mesilla. MORE INFORMATION Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 505-531-2663 or 505-531-2479
Shop our fine collage of authentic Mexican artistry and craftsmanship while sipping our famous Margaritas and then enjoy a traditional Mexican meal with live entertainment. Bienvenidos a México.
U.S. # 505-531-7243 Mexico # 011-52-656-666-0106
COLUMBUS/PALOMAS, CHIHUAHUA,MX
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Mesilla History comes alive
THE PICTURESQUE
MESILLA PLAZA SURROUNDED BY SPANISH TERRITORIAL BUILDINGS and the broad towers of San Albino Church whisk visitors away from their modern automobiles to an era of horses and buggies, top hats and cavalry. The traditional bandstand in the plaza’s center creates images of colorful fiestas, political rallies or simply a gathering of local folks to chat with friends. Art, fashion, southwest cuisine, Mexican crafts and theater now fill the adobe buildings that have served the region for over a century. Visitors are attracted by the relaxed Mexican, old west atmosphere and of course, the seasonal aroma of roasting chile drifting along 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. Charming and elegant shopping and dining plazas also line Avenida de Mesilla, which has been designated Don Juan de Oñate Trail after the early Spanish colonizer. The road is also part of the historic El Camino RealChihuahua International Trail. Mesilla served as Regional Headquarters for the Butterfield Overland Mail and Stage Line and also as a regional headquarters for the Confederate army. The Gadsden Purchase that gave the United States a southern rail route was ratified in Mesilla 151 years ago. The town was a lively and often rowdy social center in the 1880s with its dances, cockfights, and theater productions. It also attracted its share of unsavory characters. Billy the Kid was tried and sentenced to hang in Mesilla in 1881, but escaped before the sentence could be carried out.
above: Local ballet folklorico groups perform frequently on the Mesilla plaza during fiestas and special events. opposite: A memorial to veterans who served and lost their lives in America’s wars stands in front of San Albino church.
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MESILLA
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BEST Éy LMesilla the
Double Eagle Double Eagle offers steaks and seafood, veal and poultry, lobster and pastas plus an extensive wine list.
On the Plaza, Historic Old Mesilla
The Healing Jewelry & Gifts Sanctuary Itzel’s
Spectacular designs in pearl and sterling silver jewelry. Handmade crosses, mirrors, Navajo pottery and fountains
2410 Calle De Parian, Suite A
Hitsoric Old Mesilla
505-523-6700
505-523-1877
www.doubleeagledining.com
Stressed and Strained? Depart Refreshed! Mention this ad for a FREE MASSSAGE! 2410 Calle De Parian, Suite B Historic Old Mesilla
505-523-0239 www.thehealingsanctuary.net
Bordering Las Cruces, the state’s second largest city, and just 40 minutes north of El Paso/Juarez, the world’s largest international metropolis, Mesilla offers a calming escape from city stress. Browsing through a shop offering exquisite jewelry, sitting down to a quiet candlelight dinner for two and choosing to stay over in a balcony room to watch the moon climb
RESOURCE DIRECTORY BOBOLINK Essentials for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Feeders, houses, premium seeds, books jewelry,clothing and gifts. 2521Avenida de Mesilla
Thunderbird de la Mesilla
Native American Jewelry, Kachinas, Storytellers, Mexican Pewter, Pottery, Religious Articles, Greeting Cards, Unique Gifts and Ladies Apparel. On the Plaza Historic Old Mesilla
(505) 524-1823
Galeri Azul Through a plaza courtyard entrance, discover the most eclectic shop on the plaza. 2337 Calle Guadalupe Mesilla, N.M. 88046
505-523-8783
Corn Maiden Jewelry Buy it where it’s made! Specializing in repairs. 2365 Calle de Guadalupe Mesilla, NM 88046
525-8003 Apache Trading Co. 2318 Sudderth Dr. Midtown, Ruidoso, NM 88351 257-1950
Suite A Caballero Plaza Mesilla, NM 88046 505-647-3332 RUMORS DE MESILLA “Hippest Little Boutique in the Southwest” 2521 Avenida de Mesilla Caballero Plaza Mesilla, NM 88046 505-525-0288
Where it All Began... OLD WEST ountry 1-800-290-8330
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C
www.shoprumors.com
START YOUR
over the edge of the rugged Organ Mountains are among the many Mesilla options that allow the senses to recuperate and refocus. The charm and serenity may well transform one's hectic, modern outlook on life to a calmer, more rational state. Bring your camera and hike or bike the trails and back roads to the Rio Grande or through the miles of pecan orchards and chile fields. There’s a magazine-quality photo experience around every corner in “Old Mesilla.”
Mesilla
EXPERIENCE today!
Luminarias (candles) line the plaza walkways and area buildings during festive holiday celebrations.
EVENTS Monthly Feb 12 Apr 30 May 7-8 Sep 17-18 Oct 15 Nov 12 Dec 8 24
Crafts Market, Thur & Sun. 524-3262 For the Love of Art on the plaza. 524-3262 British Car Show on the plaza. 524-0993 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta on the plaza. 524-3262 Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta on the plaza. 524-3262 Los Leones de Mesilla Car Show on the plaza. 524-3262 “El Tratado de La Mesilla” Re-enactment on the plaza. 524-3262 Lighting of the Christmas Tree and Shopping Late in Mesilla. 524-3262 Luminarias and Music on the plaza. 524-3262
ATTRACTIONS Gadsden Museum. Local history and Spanish and Indian artifacts. Located in the historic A. J. Fountain home. 526-6293 Mesilla Mercado. Every Thursday and Sunday on Mesilla Plaza. 524-3262 San Albino Church. Mission church built in 1851. In town.
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 NM28, an alternate route to La Viña, Sunland Park and El Paso. MORE INFORMATION The J. Paul Taylor Visitor Center (505) 524-3262. www.oldmesilla.org
World-class shopping and dining in the very buildings that kindled 150 years of vibrant Southwest history. Photograph a stunning plaza where the Gadsden Purchase was ratified, buildings that served the Confederate Army and the Butterfield Stage, and the courthouse where Billy the Kid was tried for murder. Take a self-guided tour, visit our museum, hike the river or bicycle through the pecan orchards on El Camino Real Scenic Byway. You’ll barely make a dent in one day, so plan to spend the night at our boutique hotel or old west bed & breakfast.
The J. Paul Taylor Visitor Center 505.524.3262
www.oldmesilla.org Town of Mesilla • P.O. Box 10 Mesilla, NM 88046
MESILLA
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Las Cruces Stepping out in “America’s Best”
LAS CRUCES
SPREADS ACROSS THE fertile valley of the Rio Grande beneath the jagged formations of the Organ Mountains and is rated one of the nation’s best locations for business, retirement, and touring. 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 maintains close ties with New Mexico State University, White Sands Missile Range and the international metropolis of El Paso/Juarez, providing a high tech pace for its diverse economy. The Forbes/Milken Institute has ranked Las Cruces in its top three Best Performing Small Cities in the United States for three consecutive years. 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, one of the factors being a full calendar of activities. The lyric opera, symphony, ballet and community chorus are major contributors to the area’s cultural foundation, in addition to full seasons of both community and university theater. Area festivals, fiestas and conferences celebrate the community's diverse heritage. Byways magazine placed Las Cruces in the top 50 motorcoach destinations for 2004. The rating is based on tour operator’s anticipated routes and area attractions. Ft. Selden State Monument and area museums provide a
above: A replica of an Anasazi corn bin and an actual utility pot displayed at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum were common sights in the ancient villages of western New Mexico. left: A metal sculpture depicts a Spanish friar at the New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum. opposite: Area petroglyphs told stories of the ancient peoples.
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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 and showcases modern agriculture practices. 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. New Mexico's second largest city 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.
Photo courtesy Las Cruces CVB
WHERE SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY IS A TRADITION
EVENTS Jan 15-16 13th Annual Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally. 526-7528 Apr 15-17 Border Book Festival. 524-1499 16-17 16th Annual Frontier Days. 526-8911 May 7-8 Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. 524-3262 21-22 6th Annual Fiesta de San Ysidro. 522-4100 28-30 So. New Mexico Wine Festival – The Vinters’ Splash. 522-1232 Jul 3-4 Annual 4th of July Electric Light Parade, Celebration and Fireworks. 528-3170 Sep 3-4 Hatch Chile Festival. 267-5050 3-5 New Mexico Wine Harvest Festival. 522-1232 17-18 White Sands Balloon Invitational. 1-800-826-0294 23-25 The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. 526-1938 28Southern New Mexico State Fair. 524-8602 Oct TBA La Vina Wine Festival. 882-7632 14-16 5th Annual “Land of Enchantment” RV FLY-IN. 525-0500 15-16 Cowboy Days. 522-4100 Nov 5-6 34th Ann. Renaissance Craftfaire. 523-6403 11-13 International Mariachi Conference & Concert. 525-1735
ATTRACTIONS Blue Teal Vineyards. 1720 Avenida de Mesilla. 524-0390. www.blueteal.com Chihuahuan Desert Nature Park. Geological formations, desert flora, hiking trail and archaeology. 524-3334. www.cdnp.org Las Cruces Historical Museum and Cultural Center. History exhibits, art and culture. 500 N. Water St. 541-2155. www.lascruces-culture.org Leasburg Dam State Park. Fishing, campsites and swimming. 19 miles northwest of Las Cruces. 524-4068 N.M. Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum. 300 years of N.M. agricultural history. 4100 Dripping Springs Rd. 522-4100. www.frhm.org Stahmann Farms. Pecan farm. Country store. 7 miles south of Las Cruces. 1-800-654-6887. www.stahmanns.com
Best Western Mission Inn Our beautiful weather is perfect year round for sight seeing, shopping or visiting the unique places nearby. We are minutes from historic Old Mesilla.
1765 South Main Street Las Cruces, NM 88005
(505) 524-8591 FAX (505) 523-4740 For reservations call
1-800-390-1440 Best Western Hotels are independently owned and operated
LOCATION Las Cruces is located at the junction of I-10 and I-25 between the Rio Grande and the Organ Mountains. TOUR ROUTE 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 LAS CRUCES
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Photo courtesy Sierra County Chamber of Commerce
G R E AT ACTIVITI ES FOR EVE RYON E
OUTDOORS
Photo by Mark Wilson
THE DRY, MODERATE CLIMATE OF OLD WEST COUNTRY MAKES EACH DAY AN OPPORTUNITY FOR a new experience. Extraordinary adventures lie at the back door of every community in Southwest New Mexico. Bird watching is abundant in most Old West towns with guidance available from local and private groups. 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 to feed and rest on their journey. Hike the trails of the region’s three national forests and enjoy the solitude of two major wilderness areas. State park trails also penetrate the challenging desert regions of Old West Country. The rugged terrain of Old West Country and its meandering rivers offers mountain and standard biking opportunities in each of the communities. A grueling 5-day bicycle stage race, the Tour of the Gila, draws top international cyclists annually to Silver City. Rockhounds scour the hills and historic mining camps for specimens throughout the region. The Mineral Museum in Socorro, Rockhound State Park at Deming, the open pit mines near Silver City, and the ghost towns of Mogollon, Winston/Chloride and Shakespeare, offer intriguing insights into Old West geology. Fishing for bass and catfish doesn’t get any better than the warm water lakes along the Rio Grande. Stripers are trophy size at Elephant Butte Lake. Rainbow trout are the challenge of the mountain lakes and streams. Fishing, jet skiing, parasailing, scuba…it’s all available at Elephant Butte Lake, but pull out your electric motorboats for the smaller mountain lakes. left from the top: Snow geese at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge near Socorro; Rock climbing south of Lordsburg; Biking near Silver City (or anywhere in Old West Country); enjoying the cool waters of the Gila River above Silver City; pack trips and hiking in the three forests and two wilderness regions of Old West Country. top, right: fishing from a pier at Elephant Butte Lake near Truth or Consequences
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 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 courtesy Jackie Blurton
OWT 40
Photo courtesy Double E Guest Ranch
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.
r TouOLD WEST
Country
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
LAS CRUCES
T OR C
LORDSBURG
Gila Cliff Dwellings
Organ Mountains
Mineral Hot Springs
Shakespeare
Desert Bloom Lake Roberts Rock Climbing Our Lady of Health Church
SILVER CITY
Catwalk Duck Races
Silver City Museum
GLENWOOD
Farm & Ranch Museum
• Deming • Las Cruces • Lordsburg • Reserve • Silver City • Socorro • Truth or Consequences
SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO
Bosque del Apache
C
Elephant Butte
OLD WEST y r t n ou The Communities of:
DEMING
SOCORRO
Mogollon
LORDSBURG
Willow Creek
LAS CRUCES
SILVER CITY
San Miguel Mission
DEMING
DEMING
Elephant Butte
A place where fortunes were made, hearts were broken and dreams were fulfilled!
OLD WEST COUNTRY Southwest Region 2
P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062
1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com
Golf Course
T OR C
Where it All Began...
PRESRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Silver City, NM 88061 PERMIT No. 10