Silver City, Grant County, Community Guide 2011

2011

www.silvercity.org

Welcome to the Heart of Silver City THE

RED BARN

Family Steakhouse & Watering Hole

THE

RED BARN

Welcome to Silver City’s “local landmark serving families for over 30 years.”

Offering prime, aged, hand carved steaks and the BEST salad bar in town!

Banquet facilities for parties of up to 250. Enjoy the Comfortable Setting of the Watering Hole Lounge.

708 Silver Heights Blvd • Silver City, NM 88061 575.538.5666 • www.redbarnsteakhouse.com Silver City’s favorite breakfast spot for nearly half a century.

Conveniently located near shopping and sightseeing.

Exterior Room Entrances, Cable TV, FREE Local Calls, FREE WiFi in Public Areas

MOTEL

711 Silver Heights Blvd. • Silver City, NM 88061

575.538.2916 www.driftersilvercity.com

DRIFTER PANCAKE HOUSE AND RESTAURANT

Silver City’s best value! Centrally Located.

Restaurant and Lounge on site Renovated Rooms, FREE WiFi, FREE Local Calls, FREE Coffee Family owned and operated for over 30 years.

710 Silver Heights Blvd • Silver City, NM 88061 575.538.5392 • www.coppermanormotel.com

Close to Silver City Historic Downtown District, Visitor Center & amenities.

Perfect location for family reunions, baseball teams, and large groups.

Everything you need at one location.

Chavez Construction The Standard of Excellence in Home Building in Silver City and Grant County.

Living in a fine, custom, southwest-style home is a dream that most people have for years. Chavez Construction’s skilled craftsmen are capable of building a unique and individualized custom home that will reflect that dream and make it a reality.

Building each home as though we were building our own.

• Unsurpassed Quality • Uncompromising Craftsmanship • Environmentally Sound • True Energy Efficiency

575.388.1886

• www.ChavezConstruction.com contactus@ChavezConstruction.com 1702 North Corbin Street • P.O. Box 5163 • Silver City, NM 88062

Features

Highlights

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Welcome to Grant County. A letter from the Executive Director and an invitation to experience a unique and exciting region.

Best Small Towns. Silver City continues to garner attention nationally, ranking among the best in major categories by national magazines and books for livability, historic preservation and the arts.

Heritage. The makeup of Grant County today has been molded by a thousand years of vibrant cultural influences.

History. The geology and geography of Grant County have had major effects on its economic and community development.

Grant County Communities. Lifestyle options range from affordable to upscale and locations from river bottom spreads to mountain cabins.

The Arts. Led by the State’s #1 Arts Council, the region’s strong focus on the arts keeps Grant County on the leading edge of cultural development and opportunity.

Festivals & Events. Sanctioned rodeos, bigname cyclists, and the best Blues musicians in the nation draw international audiences.

Historic District. Silver City’s historic district was constructed with long-term expectations and preserved by a caring community.

Education. With a strong focus on quality programs and university interactions, Grant County provides excellent developmental opportunities.

Health. Surrounded by nature’s best and served by patient-centered medical programs, the county is truly one of America’s healthiest locations.

Attractions. Hiking, birding, fishing, tracking historic events, experiencing the sounds of wilderness or photographing unique formations, Grant County is the place.

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A Distinctive Destination. Offering everything from theater to a great climate.

A Draw for Visitors and Locals. Shopping, Schools, Festivals & Events.

Best Small Town Ratings. Silver City is attracting attention and getting high praise.

A Small Town with Everything. Medical, Historic Downtown, National Forest, Restaurants, Penny Park and more.

Preserving the Heritage. The Mimbres Pottery, Traditional Charro and Geronimo monument preserve a rich history.

Major Industries. Ranching from area grasslands recognized by early westward settlers and Mining from minerals used by Apaches and later discovered in the gold rush era are still prominent industries today.

Frontier People. Outlaws, Mountain Men, Buffalo Soldiers, Gold Seekers and the Chinese have all enfluenced the area.

A Lifestyle for Everyone. From Silver City and its Historic District to the valleys, mountains, tri-city mining district and the river communities, just name your style.

Cultural Experiences. The Mimbres Region Arts Council is the top rated in New Mexico promoting Galleries, Entertainment, Concert Series, Mural Projects and Festivals.

The Main Events. Silver City Blues Festival, Tour of the Gila, Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo, Weekend at the Galleries and Chocolate Fantasia are a diverse year-round selection.

A Living History. The Silver City Museum and MainStreet projects preserve the Historic District.

Its In the Presentation. Yankie/Texas Street Junction is the hub of the Art District.

Developing Minds. The Silver School District and Western New Mexico University are strong foundations for education.

Gila Regional Medical Center. A Planetree Affiliate is committed to patient-centered programs providing a positive healing environment.

Our Cover Year-round activities, events and performances keep the communities hopping and visitors returning.

27 Treasures of the Southern Rockies. City of Rocks State Park, Lake Roberts, Pinos Altos, Gila Cliff Dwellings Nat’l. Monument, and the Continental Divide Nat’l Scenic Trail.

28 Recreational Opportunities. Hiking, Biking, Birding and Stargazing.

29 Diverse Attractions. Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark, The Catwalk National Recreation Trail, Mogollon Ghost Town, Santa Rita Open Pit Mine, and the Gila National Forest and Wilderness Areas.

30 Trails and a Bit of History. Big Ditch Park, O.S. Warren House, San Vicente Trail and Billy the Kid Cabin.

31 Overlooking Silver City. La Capilla and Boston Hill.

Departments 5 7 9 18 31 32 33

Meet the Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Quick Facts. Includes Climate, Population, Taxes and other important information.

SilverCity.org. An introduction to Silver City’s Home Page.

Calendar of Events.

Silver City Map Important Government Numbers Area Map Mileage to Scenic Destinations

EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS SO MUCH MORE Timberland Construction, Inc. is an experienced builder that strives to provide the best quality materials and craftsmanship in every project.

Building in Silver City since 1997.

WWW.TIMBERLANDCONSTRUCTION.COM Call us for a free initial consultation.

For More Information Contact Ernie ernie@timberlandconstruction.com

575.313.5140 888.217.7962 NM License #92565

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S LETTER

Welcome to Grant County

By Lola Polley Dear Future Visitors:

Lola Polley Executive Director Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce

WELCOME to Grant County and our Enchanted New Mexico!

Since 1905, when the Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce was formed, the Chamber has been the Voice of the Regions’ business community promoting our businesses, tourism and economic development for 106 Years.

The Chamber focuses on creating a Stronger Local Economy while Promoting all the communities of Grant County and all Enchanting New Mexico destinations. As the Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director and a Tourism Association of New Mexico Board Member, I encourage you to visit not only Grant County, but all of our enchanting New Mexico.

When you come to New Mexico and to Grant County first, you will experience a wonderful ruggedly beautiful heritage. Our destination attractions from left: Accepting the prestigiousTIARA Award for Best Outthat can only be experienced in New Mexico are the vast Gila National Forest door Advertising in New Mexico at the 2011 Governor’s Conference are Lola Polley Executive Director, Jim Nennich Chamber Board President, Toni Balzano Deputy Cabinet and Starry, Starry Nights. There are more than 340 Birding Species in Grant Secretary of Tourism, Monique Jacobson Tourism Cabinet County alone. Billy the Kid Folklore! The Real Old West! Dutch Oven cookSecretary, Dan Cook Chamber Board Past President. ing! Hiking, Biking, Mining and 11,000 years of Culture! Our National Award Winning MainStreet attractions, Festivals, City and County Businesses, and our VISIT Arts Community is comparable to our Tourism Neighbor, Taos, New Mexico. Silver YOU TO I INVITE e rc it y.o rg v il .s w n City and Taos, share the New Mexico, Eco-Tourism Brand. Our Gila Cliff Dwellings w io rs w r online ve to view ou r City Grant National Monument and The City of Rocks State Park are amazing cultural, historive of The Sil y ommunit cal and natural wonders.

County C exciting interis Guide. Th provides e If you “Follow the Green Chili Cheeseburger Trail” you will be delighted by the southactive guid l websites ca links to lo loadable for western culinary pleasures that only exist in New Mexico, our renown green and red n and is dow ience. Our n chili experiences from soup to nuts. your conve mily is large. fa extended ort them So, when you are out there looking for Gold in New Mexico, come find some pp Please su n. ca u Silver! Silver City, New Mexico that is!! Silver City is the vacation destination that when yo will leave you with a wonderful renewed spirit and a desire to return again. Come see us at 201 North Hudson Street, Silver City, New Mexico and our wonderful volunteers and staff will guide you to points of interests and our happening events.

We look forward to seeing you soon!

4 – www.silvercity.org

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Board of Directors Jim Nennich W & N Enterprises President Wally Lawder The Wellness Coalition Vice President Linda McGee Stone, McGee CPAs Treasurer

Directors Veralee Berg EatYour Heart Out Catering Lori Bonomo Carson Insurance Agency Linda Nichols Western Bank, Vice President Cecilia Pacheco AmBank, Sr. Vice President

Ex Officio Daniel Cook Garland Realty Past President Alex Brown Town Manager Town of Silver City Julie Morales WNMU, Executive Prospectors President Jon Saari Grant County Manager Lucy Whitmarsh MainStreet Project President

Staff Lola Polley Executive Director TANM Board Member Linda Gray Business Membership Manager Silver City/Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson Ave. Silver City, NM 88061 (575) 538-3785 (800) 548-9378

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 5

A Multicultural Community Silver City has become an American destination for vacations, relocation and retirement because its rich heritage and quality of life

Photo by Corey Schwartz courtesy MRAC

are plainly evident.

A DISTINCTIVE DESTINATION THEATER The Mimbres Regional Arts Council, #1 in New Mexico, supports cultural activities in area venues, both large and small.

CLIMATE Silver City’s near perfect climate offers year-round enjoyment of outdoor activities.

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Silver City is a culturally diverse community that is repeatedly recognized by national magazines and books for livability, historic preservation and the arts.

Small town values which entice former residents to “come back home” are the foundation supporting a solid arts community, the preservation of historic architecture, a university atmosphere, cultural diversity, endless outdoor activities (in one of the best climates imaginable) and a list of year-round events that just won’t quit.

The writers who rank Silver City among the “Best Small Towns” in America base their conclusions on factors that are an integral part of the local lifestyle.

Coffee houses and bakeries are where the locals discuss many issues, or the Olive

Warbler spotted at Cherry Creek. The dinner menus, wine lists, and desserts are excellent and when a new shop, a play, or an art show opens…expect a crowd.

Modern Maturity Magazine’s choice of Silver City as the #3 Small Town in America noted such factors as neighborliness, restaurants, ease of getting around on foot, ethnic diversity, recreational options, and most important, “cultural vitality." A presentation by the New Mexico Symphony, the five-day Tour of the Gila bicycle stage race and the Blues Festival are the types of activities this small mountain community has come to expect.

The Southwest and fine art found in galleries along the historic downtown streets has become both an attraction and a significant year-round factor in the local economy. John Villani highlighted Silver City in his book, The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America.

Histories of the area’s mining and cattle industries are displayed in its museums, as well as the world’s largest permanent display of ancient Mimbres Indian pottery.

The Victorian style homes and buildings

Quick Facts ARIZONA

NEW MEXICO I-40

I-40

FLAGSTAFF ALBUQUERQUE

I-25

PHOENIX SILVER CITY

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LORDSBURG DEMING

TUCSON

LAS CRUCES EL PASO,TEXAS

ARIZONA MEXICO

CLIMATE Grant County is a remarkably diverse landscape, ranging from high desert in the south to high mountains across much of the north of the county. Temperatures are generally mild, giving us four gentle seasons to enjoy.

throughout the historic district reflect the prosperity of the boom eras and the desire to build an enduring community. Silver City was chosen one of The National Trust for Historic Preservation’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations in 2002.

The opportunities for both cultural and outdoor activities, in a crisp mountain air environment, no doubt contributed to Norman Ford including Silver City in the top 1% of The Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in America.

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, located in the middle of more than three million acres of national forest, is the area’s biggest attraction. It is, however, only the beginning of the adventures surrounding Silver City. Forts, an opera house, ghost towns, lakes and streams, birding, historic chapels, unique recreational sites and extraordinary Sunday afternoon drives contribute to an unsurpassed outdoor agenda.

Silver City is a vibrant community with lots to share with its neighbors, both far and near. One visit will make it your destination of choice.

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Average annual moisture: 16.08 inches Total Snowfall: Mean 11.8"; High 27.0" POPULATION City County County Size

10,054 29,443 4,356 sq. miles

TAXES Inside City. ’11 Gross Receipts 7.375% GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER 68 Beds, 650 Staff, 65 Physicians

A DRAW FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS SHOPPING Silver City is not only a regional hub for shopping, it is widely recognized for its galleries and quaint one-of-a-kind shops.

SCHOOLS Home of Western New Mexico University founded in 1894, the community also touts excellent public and private school systems.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS Year round events include Tour of the Gila bicycle race; Silver City Blues Fest; Wild, Wild West Pro Rodeo and Chocolate Fantasia.

WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY Graduate, Undergraduate and Associate Degrees GRANT COUNTY AIRPORT Serving the area with daily commercial flights.

SILVER CITY GOLF COURSE 18-hole championship course.

CORRE CAMINOS TRANSIT County-wide scheduled transportation.

LOCATION Silver City is located in Grant County in Southwest New Mexico at the foothills of the Pinos Altos Range, an extension of the Mogollon Mountains. Silver City is centrally located at the junction of US 180 and NM 90 halfway between El Paso and Tucson almost equidistant to Denver, Dallas and Los Angeles.

PET FRIENDLY environment with many merchants providing water bowls.

LODGING Hotels & Motels Bed & Breakfasts Cabins & Cottages RV Parks

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DINING Whether you prefer quick fast food, healthy choices, deli service or leisure coffee houses; family style or gourmet; saloon or bar and grill; Mexican, Chinese or American; Silver City has abundant dining choices.

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 • 575-538-3785 For a complete listing of services check our website: www.silvercity.org

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 7

Photo courtesy Gila Regional Medical Center

2011 Silver City Grant County Community Guide Published exclusively for the Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce

by Zia Publishing Corp.

RATINGS

A SMALL TOWN WITH EVERYTHING MEDICAL Silver City’s regional medical facilities include the gamut from rehabilitation to cancer treatment and the location attracts quality staff.

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN The wellpreserved historic district is the result of early requirements for brick construction and sustained preservation efforts.

NATIONAL FOREST The 3.3 million-acre forest playground includes the nation’s first designated wilderness area and the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

RESTAURANTS Local restaurants range from sandwich shops to steak and seafood, Chinese and Mexican fares, including a strong focus on natural and vegetarian cuisines.

PENNY PARK The Community Built Park is a fun-filled shady 15,000-square-foot playground filled with a huge variety of imaginative climbing structures, slides, swings, bridges, balance beams, castle structures and picnic grounds.

8 – www.silvercity.org

Silver City is attracting attention. It made the top three in Modern Maturity's list of the Best Small Towns in America; writer Norman Ford rated it in the top one percent in his book, Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in the United States and Norman Crampton featured it in his book, The 100 Best Small Towns in America. John Villani included Silver City in The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America.

National Trust for Historic Preservation chose Silver City in USA’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations. Phoenix Home and Garden “a gestating arts center”. Los Angeles Times “Still as pristine and untamed as Leopold had intended.”

National Geographic Adventure “50 Best Places to Live: The Next Great Adventure Towns”.

Where to Retire “An off-thebeaten path town boasting vast scenic splendor and a burgeoning arts scene.” 55 Alive! America's Top Ten Bargain Towns for Boomers.

Outdoor Life "Top Public Hunting Areas".

Terri Menges President & Managing Director Joseph Burgess Vice President & Photo Journalist Arlyn Cooley Staff Accountant Joseph Burgess Writing & Photography except where credited Jackie Blurton FevaFotos LeAnne Knudsen Bob Pelham M. H. “Dutch” Salmon Corey Schwartz Debra Sutton Judy Wuthrich Contributing Photographers Gila Regional Medical Center Mimbres Region Arts Council Silver City Grant Co. Chamber of Commerce Courtesy Photographs Terri Menges Debra Sutton Designers Dawn Redpath Advertising Sales Silver City Grant County Community Guide is published by Zia Publishing Corp. with offices at: P.O. Box 1248 • 116 McKinney Road (deliveries only) Silver City, NM 88062 Phone: 575-388-4444 x19 • Fax: 575-534-3333 e-mail: info@ziapublishing.com www.ziapublishing.com ©Zia Publishing Corp., 2011. This issue of Silver City Grant County Community Guide is copyrighted under the laws of the United States of America. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher prohibited. For permission to use any portion of this publication email: info@ziapublishing.com. 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.

VISIT

SilverCity.org HOME PAGE FOR DESTINATION TRAVELERS

Home Activities Altitude Artists & Galleries Become a Member!

Birding Business Resources Business Directory Calendar Civic Resources Climate Destinations Employment Entertainment Events & Festivals Freq. Asked Questions Historic Downtown Hospitals & Health How to Get Here!

Local Media Lodging Museums Population Prospectors Read About Us! Real Estate Religious Life Relocation Info Restaurants & More Schools Senior Living

We're proud to be supported in part by the Silver City Lodgersʼ Tax and by the lodgers and businesses of Silver City and Grant County!

WELCOME! ¡BIENVENIDOS! Ready to get away from it all in more than 3 million acres of wilderness? Or to lose yourself in thought in art galleries and studios with some of the Southwest's best-known artists? Or find escape on the dance floor with live music, great food and fun people? Whatever your taste, Silver City and Grant County are your tickets to these destinations and more!

We have more than 1,100 years of history and culture to share, from the WEATHER Gila Cliff Dwellings and their earliest Current weather inhabitants to moderns farming and conditions for ranching, guest ranches museums, Silver City and historical sites and more.

Grant County.

Silver City Office 1609 N. Swan Street • Silver City, NM 88061

575.534.0550

Hurley Branch 512 Carrasco Ave • Hurley, NM 88043

575.537.2111

Bayard Branch 1401 Tom Foy Blvd. • Bayard, NM 88023

575.537.2481

and for those living further away...

1.800.440.8751 www.ambanksc.com

EQUAL HOUSING LENDER

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 9

A Multi-cultural Community The Silver City Grant County area celebrates its diverse cultural experiences that create a rich environment for the community. The influx of peoples from prehistoric times through today’s artists, retirees and university students, as well as from large-scale mining and agricultural development have all contributed to a character not often found in communities this size.

PRESERVING THE HERITAGE A TRADITIONAL CHARRO Carlos Herrera from Hurley is a true horseman who thrills locals at parades and fiestas with the showmanship of his beautiful horses. Representing the traditions of the Mexican Charro, Carlos stands alone in Southern New Mexico for his abilities to train horses and perform in the style of the Charriada.

THE MIMBRES CONTRIBUTION The ancient Mimbres people, dating back approximately 900 years, are among Grant County’s cultural treasures. Its black-onwhite geometric designs and unique figures preserved on centuries-old pottery have strongly influenced the artwork of today’s Land of Enchantment.

10 – www.silvercity.org

Mimbres Culture

Hispanic Culture

The Mimbres Culture that flourished in Southwest New Mexico from around AD 500 to about AD 1150 produced pottery with fine geometric designs and the figures of humans, animals, birds and insects that were unique for that period. They lived in small villages of pit houses, semi-pit houses and finally in above ground clusters. They farmed near the rivers, hunted, fished and gathered wild foods. Their disappearance from the area is not well defined, leading to much speculation about their departure.

The group is a subset of the broader Mogollon Culture that inhabited the area from about AD 150 to about AD 1400, which included the Tulerosa Culture that briefly inhabited the Gila Cliff Dwellings north of Silver City.

Displays of Mimbres pottery, tools, fetishes and lifestyle can be found at the Silver City Museum, Western New Mexico University Museum and the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center.

Mexican Lieutenant Colonel José Carrasco began mining operations at the Santa Rita deposit around 1800, sending copper ore south for use by the Mexican mint. The village of Santa Rita was established.

Mexican miners, farmers and ranchers continued to settle in the region through the 19th century and many of their descendants have continued those vocations and careers through the 20th and into the 21st Century.

The Catholic Church played a strong roll for Latinos from the beginning, establishing historic missions along the Mimbres River and serving as cornerstones of the mining communities. Mexican food is a staple in area homes and local restaurants, and the traditional arts of santos, bultos and retablos continue to be revered in local churches and sold in area galleries. Spanish language music follows the gamut from Mariachi to ranchera, modern Mexican pop and typical classical selections.

The Hispanic population today holds key positions throughout the business, education, medical and political fields of the region.

THE GERONIMO MONUMENT A monument dedicated to famous Chirichahua Apache chief Geronimo, who was born at the headwaters of the Gila River in 1829 is located at the Gila Cliff Dwellings Naitonal Monument Visitor Center.

Chiricahua Apache Culture The Chiricahua Apaches roamed the hills of Southwest New Mexico, Southeast Arizona and the northern portions of Chihuahua and Sonora in Mexico. The nomadic bands began encountering early Spanish explorers and later settlers from Mexico and the eastern United States.

Confrontations ensued that eventually led to imprisonment of tribal members in Florida in 1886. Remaining members were later relocated to reservations in Oklahoma and New Mexico. Those who returned to New Mexico were integrated with the Mescalero Apache tribe near Ruidoso.

Leaders of the Chiricahua bands included household names like Cochise, Mangas Coloradas, Geronimo and Naiche, a son of Cochise and the last chief of the “free” Chiricahuas. Geronimo was reportedly born near the headwaters of the Gila River in 1829.

Volunteers erected a monument in his recognition at the Gila Cliff Dwellings Visitor Center. Native blessings of the site were offered by a descendent of Geronimo, Harlyn Geronimo and his wife Karen.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 11

Mining, Wilderness, The Gold Rush and Brick Construction Based on complex geologic history, diverse human activities and isolation from New Mexico’s Rio Grande corridor, Silver City and Grant County’s development took on a different character from the state as a whole.

Intense geologic forces and the ensuing processes of weathering were involved in the creation of the rugged terrain known as the Gila. A key factor for area development was the resulting mineralization, by far the state’s richest deposits.

Apaches molded native copper into jewelry and tips for arrows. The first mining of the red metal began around 1800 for the Mexican mint. Later in the 19th century, full-scale mining began in Silver City and Santa Rita and continues around the county today. Pinos Altos had its own lively gold rush era, complete with all the old west tales of boom and bust and serving briefly as the first county seat.

Conversely, the Gila, with all its breathtaking vistas, life zones and eco systems, includes a large region that was the first in the United States to be designated by Congress in 1924 as a Wilderness to be preserved for future generations. Huge tracts of pristine forests and streams are protected from modern human development.

Silver City, a fiercely independent community and recognizing its future potential, threatened the Territorial Legislature of New Mexico in 1876 with secession to Arizona. As a result, Silver City became the first incorporated town in New Mexico and it continues to operate under a Territorial charter. It has the state’s oldest public school system and one of the earliest institutions of higher learning.

Due to fire problems in its early history, town fathers insisted on brick construction, resulting in the survival of numerous Victorian and turn-of-the-century homes and buildings. The downtown and university districts offer an architectural treat for visitors, revolving around the Silver City Museum housed in the 1881 home of H.B. Ailman.

THE MAJOR INDUSTRIES RANCHING Westward moving settlers recognized Grant County’s grasslands as good pastures for cattle grazing. The industry took root and continues to hold its own today. Both private property use and permits for grazing on government land are important factors to the rancher, with added emphasis in recent years on environmental issues.

MINING The Santa Rita mine celebrated its hundredth anniversary as an open pit operation and mining was recognized by the state legislature for the economic impact it has had over the years on southwest New Mexico. Copper has been the mainstay of the region, but gold, silver, lead, zinc, molybdenum and other minerals have been mined commercially.

12 – www.silvercity.org

Photo “Ben Lily with friends”courtesy M.H. “Dutch” Salmon

FRONTIER PEOPLE OUTLAWS In typical Old West fashion, Grant County produced its own cast of unsavory characters. Billy the Kid, of Lincoln County Wars fame, was raised in Silver City and his mother is buried in Memory Lane cemetery. Butch Cassidy and a few of his gang worked on a ranch in the Gila for a spell to avoid capture.

MOUNTAIN MEN The rugged terrain rising out of the desert above Silver City attracted Mountain Men in the late 1800s in search of animal pelts and meat. The Gila became home to Ben Lilly, (above) a renowned big game hunter and accomplished houndsman, from 1911 to 1936.

He is buried in Memory Lane Cemetary.

BUFFALO SOLDIERS So named by Indians because their hair resembled that of the buffalo, soldiers in Company B of the 125th U.S. Colored Infantry established Fort Bayard in August 1866, top, right). The unit included Cathay Williams, the only know female Buffalo Soldier. The mission was to protect early settlers, miners and travelers from the Apache.

GOLD RUSH Gold was discovered in Pinos Altos above Silver City in 1860 (right), quickly bringing over 700 prospectors to the area. In 1861, Chiricahua Apaches Cochise and Mangas Coloradas joined forces to drive the miners out of their lands, but gold panning and Indian skirmishes continued for the next three decades.

CHINESE INFLUENCE Often utilized in the West as labor for mining and the building of railroads, Chinese immigrants began settling in local communities and establishing small businesses. Laundries, grocery stores, restaurants and mercantiles owned by the descendants of these immigrants have also contributed to the history of Silver City.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 13

Name your lifestyle Silver City and Grant County are widely recognized as the Best in numerous categories, related primarily to quality of life issues, all of which are packaged in the warmth of a small-town atmosphere. Great weather, incredible opportunities for outdoor experiences, an intriguing history, a mature and exciting arts community, the full gamut of educational offerings and strong business and industrial opportunities have contributed to the lifestyles of area natives and attracted a diverse set of newcomers from other parts of the nation.

The historic areas of the county include tastefully renovated homes from previous eras and lots of opportunities for those willing to make the effort to bring older structures up to current living expectations. Silver City has an inviting collection of Victorian homes from the late 1800s and early 1900s, many of which have been restored to their previous state of elegance and stature. There remain homesteads and sprawling ranch-style homes throughout the county that deliver spacious country living opportunities. Well-cared for homes and small clusters of new construction can be found in Hurley, Bayard, Santa Clara, Mimbres and the Cliff/Gila area.

Upscale developments have been carefully laid out in the mountains and foothills surrounding Silver City. Mediterranean and Southwestern-style homes are prevalent in some subdivisions and quite varied in others. Major subdivisions include Dos Griegos, Wind Canyon Estates, Branding Iron Properties, XYZ Ranch Estates, Oak Country Estates, Loma Blanca, Canyon Country and Indian Hills.

Bargains are plentiful on existing homes, developed properties and raw acreage. Many of the major realty companies are represented in the county and are represented in this publication.

14 – www.silvercity.org

A LIFESTYLE FOR EVERYONE SILVER CITY The county seat and largest of area communities, Silver City also serves as the business and medical hub for the region. It is home to Western New Mexico University. Silver City is known for its historic brick Victorian homes, but offers the full gamut of construction and development.

THE VALLEYS The Mimbres and Gila River valleys, as well as the Mangas Spring area have experienced a surge in construction in recent years. The Mimbres River, home of the ancient Mimbres Culture, has supported the largest expansion, including a school, restaurants and convenience store.

THE MOUNTAINS Properties are available in Pinos Altos (tall pines) and the surrounding area east and just above Silver City. Oak and juniper covered foothills to the north, west and southwest of Silver City exist in several major developments. All are within easy commuting distance to Silver City.

HISTORIC DISTRICT The downtown and university districts provide access to well-preserved and carefully restored Victorian homes. In close proximity to galleries, restaurants, shopping, and a wide variety of activities, the area is perfect for those interested in antique décor and the local farmer’s market.

TRI-CITY MINING DISTRICT The communities of Bayard, Hurley and Santa Clara make up the county’s historic mining district. In recent years, they have initiated a focus on tourism and local festivals, based primarily on over 200 years of mining activity and historic Fort Bayard. Individual housing is scattered throughout the communities with a small development in Hurley.

CLIFF/GILA Located on the Gila River after exiting the vast Gila Wilderness, the rich farming valley is home to the annual Cliff/Gila Grant County Fair.

Properties are available with both river and mountain vistas.

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575-546-2602

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SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 15

A Highly Functional Arts Community What causes the arts to flourish in a relatively small, off-the-beaten-path community? The answer, of course, is a lot of hard work. Recently recognized as one of the 100 Best Art Towns in America, artists, support organizations and marketing media have achieved the degree of quality workmanship that lures travelers off the interstate highways and away from nearby cities to this highly functional arts community.

MIMBRES REGION ARTS COUNCIL

CULTURAL EXPERIENCES PERFORMANCE SERIES The Grant County Concert Association brings national and international groups to Silver City performing at the WNMU Fine Arts Center Theater. The 2011 season includes Dallas Brass in May, Chris Burton Jacome Flamenco Ensemble in October and Jim Curry and Band playing music of John Denver in November. www.gcconcerts.org MURAL PROJECT With local and national funding, artists, local businesses and Grant County youth team up to plan, design and produce appropriate and meaningful murals throughout the region. Over 30 projects have been completed using various media and a myriad of subject matter. www.mimbresarts.org

16 – www.silvercity.org

Photo by FevaFotos courtesy MRAC

Photo courtesy MRAC

Someone has to locate and coordinate the performers who are willing to venture into rural Southwest New Mexico and someone has to serve as a resource for local visual and performing arts. In Grant County, that someone is the Mimbres Region Arts Council, the #1 arts council in the State of New Mexico as ranked by a division of the state Department of Cultural Affairs. The Arts Council has an outstanding track record for enriching the quality of life in the region. It sponsors its own signature events that include the Silver City

Blues Festival, Pickamania, Weekend at the Galleries and Chocolate Fantasia and it hosts performers and folk groups from around the country.

The Arts Council partners with Western Institute for Lifelong Learning and Western New Mexico University to host an artist lecture series and hosts gallery reception events at the MRAC/Wells Fargo Gallery. It co-sponsors the PNM Fine Arts Friday Program that brings artists into classrooms of Kindergarten through grade five and with funding from local, state and national sources, young people participate in the acclaimed Youth Mural Program.

ENTERTAINMENT Grant County abounds with talent including local bands and individuals that perform here and throughout the Southwest, local and traveling theater and performing arts groups scheduled for various venues in Silver City, Bayard and Pinos Altos, and of course, organizations from the university, public schools and churches. The county is never at a loss for lively and meaningful entertainment.

The Destination for Vacations and Business in Silver City, New Mexico.

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Econo Lodge Hotel is conveniently located at Highway 180 and Highway 15 in Silver City. We are near city attractions like The City of Rocks, Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, The Gila National Forest, Historic Downtown Silver City, Lake Roberts, The Silver City Museum and Western New Mexico University.

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PERFORMANCE Series

575.538.2505

MimbresArts.org

Silver City Blues Festival - Memorial Day Weekend Weekend at the Galleries - Columbus Day Weekend Chocolate Fantasia - Saturday before Valentine's Day

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Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

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SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 17

Calendar of Events GRANT COUNTY EVENTS Jan

Red Paint PowWow & Indian Market (tentative) 575-534-1379 Feb Chocolate Fantasia 575-538-2505 Apr Annual Tour of the Gila 575-538-3785 www.tourofthegila.com Celebration of Spring Festival 575-534-1700 May Silver City Blues Festival 575-538-2505 www.mimbresarts.org Wild, Wild West Pro Rodeo 575-538-3785 Hurley Annual Festival 575-537-2124 Jul 4th of July Celebration & Parade 575-538-3785 info@silvercity.org Sep San Vicente Artists Art Fair 575-534-4269 artfair@silvercityartists.org Gem and Mineral Show 575-538-3785 Fort Bayard Days 575-538-4477 Cliff, Gila and Grant County Fair 575-538-3785 Taste Of Downtown 575-534-1700 www.mainstreet@gilanet.com Oct Pinos Altos October Fiesta 575-538-5560 Weekend at the Galleries 575-538-2505 Nov Annual Lighted Christmas Parade 575-534-1700 Dec Victorian Christmas Evening 575-538-5921 Visit www.silvercity.org for complete events schedule.

18 – www.silvercity.org

Festivals &Events Diverse year-round happenings Sanctioned rodeos, a five-day stage race for cyclists and the annual blues festival are the functions that draw people from around the state and across the nation. Locally, gallery openings, art walks, art related festivals and concerts keep the calendar hopping. There are always functions sponsored by car clubs, social and service clubs, health and fitness groups, churches – the list grows long even before including the infectious excitement of university and public school sporting events.

Photo courtesy MRAC Photo courtesy MRAC

Photo courtesy MRAC

WIFI FREE

THE MAIN EVENTS SILVER CITY BLUES FESTIVAL Bringing together some of the best Blues musicians in the nation for a three-day event on Memorial Day weekend, Silver City outshines the surrounding Southwest region.

Pointed lyrics and fiery rhythms resonate in the cool mountain air and along the quaint streets of the historic district. The free daytime performances are in Gough Park with late night shows at the Buffalo Bar. TOUR OF THE GILA A five-day stage race that attracts big-name cyclists from across the nation and northern Mexico, it is billed as one of the toughest in the nation. Tackling the winding roads of the Gila high country and the downtown streets of Silver City, the race is an experience for racers and spectators alike. The community opens its doors for the sanctioned race as it does year round for local enthusiasts.

WILD WILD WEST PRO RODEO The PRCA sanctioned rodeo pits some of the nation’s toughest cowboys against some of the country’s toughest bulls and there is lots of riding and roping. There are queens and princesses, rodeo clowns and plenty of excitement. It is scheduled for the first week of June at the Southwest Horseman’s Association rodeo grounds just off Highway 180 east.

WEEKEND AT THE GALLERIES Featuring more than 200 artists and over two dozen galleries, Weekend at the Galleries in early October showcases the area’s talented arts community. Recognized as one of the nation’s premier small-town arts venues, the city and county open up on gallery weekend to promote the prolific and vibrant work produced in this area.

CHOCOLATE FANTASIA A unique event just prior to Valentine’s Day, Chocolate Fantasia provides a great opportunity to visit the downtown galleries while sampling gourmet chocolate creations from local chocolatiers. This day is officially set aside for the arts, music, friendly conversation and chocolate decadence. You may also stumble across the perfect piece to fill that empty wall space.

INDEPENDENCE DAY Booth spaces offer various types of food choices. Vendors will showcase jewelry, cutlery, apparel, games, face painting and caricatures, along with several informational and non-profit booths. Parades, fireworks and an old-time Ice Cream Social (at the Silver City Museum) are highlights during Silver City's annual Independence Day festivities.

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SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 19

A Colorful Experience Silver City has always been the center of area activities and business since its inception in the 1800s and has more recently accepted recognition as a center for the arts. The business people are friendly, yes, truly friendly, because they depend equally on local support and that of its visitors. People come to Silver City for its festivals, its galleries and restaurants, its unique shops, its fabulous weather, its three million acre forest playground and its small-town atmosphere.

But you have to get out of your car and walk around, shake hands and see if you don’t find someone interested in where you are from. You have wander through the shops to experience the difference between Silver City and wherever you may have arrived from. And cameras are acceptable.

IT’S THE PRESENTATION… YANKIE/TEXAS STREET JUNCTION The region’s most colorful cluster of galleries, studios and shops is located at the intersection of Yankie and Texas Streets, located in the historic downtown district.

The old red-brick buildings have been brought to life with brilliantly colored doors, window frames and signs. Inside are products of some of the area’s best artists and crafts people. Of course, there is also wonderful coffee, pastries and WiFi!

20 – www.silvercity.org

HISTORIC DOWNTOWN With the charm of a well-preserved business district built during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Silver City’s historic downtown showcases the detailed architectures of those intriguing eras.

Victorian homes, the county courthouse and city hall and three theater buildings contribute to the historic business, bank and hotel buildings. Many of the curbs are quite high to allow occasional thunderstorm runoff to pass through without damaging buildings. The streets are lighted with antique poles, and rings for tying off your trusty steed can still be spotted at several locations. A lot of brickwork was used in the downtown construction and tile from local ovens

A LIVING HISTORY SILVER CITY MUSEUM Housed in the 1881 home of H.B. Ailman, the museum displays collections related to the peoples and history of southwest New Mexico and its diverse cultural heritage.

Lectures, book signings and exhibit openings are included in the museum calendar, as are its July 4th Ice Cream Social and Victorian Christmas Evening. The museum houses a great one-of-a-kind gift shop.

MAINSTREET PROJECT The longest continuously operating MainStreet program in New Mexico was established in 1985 and has fostered downtown preservation and small business growth. It was the recipient of a national award for revitalization. Much of the historic downtown charm has resulted from efforts by the MainStreet Project in partnership with the community’s public and private sectors.

graces an occasional storefront. Bullard and Broadway Streets form the axis for shopping, with Yankie, Texas and Market contributing numerous galleries and eateries. A renovated hotel, Victorian lodging and spa facilities are found downtown.

There is also a park downtown, but you may have to ask for directions. It is called, of all things, Big Ditch Park. It was once the city’s main street, but floods in the early 20th century left a sixty-foot deep crevice in its place.

ARTS & CULTURAL DISTRICT Arts and cultural functions take place throughout the community with the greatest concentration in the historic downtown area. Art galleries abound downtown, interspersed with coffee shops and restaurants for resting your tired feet and catching up on local gossip. Art walks are common downtown and outdoor art

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and performance functions occur frequently at Big Ditch and Gough Parks.

Other venues include the Silco Theater, the museum annex and the Buffalo Bar Dance Hall downtown, the Wells Fargo Gallery, Western New Mexico University Gallery and the Western New Mexico University Performing Arts Theater. Museums include the Silver City Museum downtown and the Western New Mexico University Museum.

Silver City Food Co-op

Member-owned community market since 1974 • Everyone can shop-anyone can join Organic and local produce, dairy, meat, nuts, bulk foods, herbs Gluten-free, lactose-free, vegan and raw foods 520 N. Bullard St. Silver City, NM 88061 9am-7pm - Monday-Saturday 575-388-2343 www.silvercityfoodcoop.com

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SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 21

Strong Foundations With solid beginnings as the first public school system established in New Mexico and with one of the state’s first institutions of higher learning, Grant County communities continue to place strong emphasis and commitment on education. The Silver City and Cliff schools were originally governed by Western New Mexico University and became an independent system in 1960. Additional school options in Silver City include Opportunity High School, governed by the Silver Consolidated School District, a charter school – Aldo Leopold High School and five private schools including Agape Academy, Calvary Christian Academy, Down to Earth School, Guadalupe Montessori School and Meadowhawk Erdkinder. Mining district schools are part of the Cobre Consolidated School District with offices in Bayard.

PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEMS The Silver Consolidated School District provides educational opportunities for 3100 students and employees 259 teachers and 224 support personnel. The district includes three high schools: Silver High School and Opportunity High School located in Silver City and Cliff High School serving the communities of Cliff and Gila; La Plata Middle School; and five elementary schools: G.W. Stout, Harrison Schmitt, Jose Barrios, Sixth Street and Cliff.

The Cobre Consolidated School District includes Cobre High School in Bayard, C.C. Snell Middle School, also located in Bayard, and elementary schools in Bayard, Hurley, Santa Clara and San Lorenzo.

WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY Western New Mexico University in Silver City was established in 1893 as New Mexico Normal School. Over the years, its name was changed to New Mexico Western State Teachers College and New Mexico Western DEVELOPING MINDS SILVER SCHOOLS Providing quality educational opportunities is the goal and the achievement of the Silver Consolidated School District. Excellent mental and physical training facilities contribute to well-rounded development for area youth. The region’s focus on cultural and outdoor activities also provides growth potential.

UNIVERSITY Silver City is fortunate to have local options for higher education. Western New Mexico University provides full-degree programs that allow local youth to remain at home and students from other locations to study in a small-town, supportive atmosphere.

Obvious benefits for the adult population include specialty classes and cultural and athletic activities.

22 – www.silvercity.org

opportunity high

College. It became Western New Mexico University in 1963.

Today, WNMU offers more than 70 fields of study and provides 10 graduate degrees, 41 baccalaureate degrees, and 18 associate degree and certificate programs.

Accounting, criminal justice, education, nursing, occupational therapy and zoology are the school’s fields of study. The 2010 enrollment included 2568 students at the Silver City campus, 422 at Deming, 126 at Gallup, 57 at Lordsburg and 55 at Truth or Consequences. An additional 109 students were enrolled online. Online students anywhere in the world can earn degrees, including Master of Arts in Interdiciplinary Studies, Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Bachelor of Arts in Rehabilitation Services. Over 100 courses are offered online each semester.

Mustang athletics include football, basketball, volleyball, softball, tennis, golf and cross country. The school is a member of NCAA Division II and the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

Our schools offer a comprehensive education for approximately 3,000 students. The District provides a variety of education programs addressing the needs of a community that is multi-ethnic and varied in it’s socioeconomic structure. The District is governed by a five-member board of education and employs approximately 259 teachers and 224 support personnel.

jose barrios

• Two High Schools- Silver and Cliff High Schools • OneAlternativeHighSchool- Opportunity High School • One Middle School- La Plata Middle School • Five Elementary Schools- G.W. Stout, Cliff, Harrison Schmitt, Jose Barrios and Sixth Street Elementary School

cliff schools

stout elementary

Silver Consolidated School District

2810 N. Swan St. • Silver City, NM 88061

575.956.2000

www.silverschools.org

silver high

la plata

harrison schmitt

sixth street

314 E. 14th Street • P.O. Box 1477 • Silver City, NM 88062

575.538.3847 • 800.716.3847 Silver Advantage

www.realestatesilvercitynm.com

Each Office Independently Owned & Operated

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 23

Gila Regional Medical Center

Healthiest Place to Live & Retire Silver City and Grant County have been listed in Norman Crampton’s 50 Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in the United States for over a decade. Among the many reasons to list Silver City…why not start with the climate. The 6000 foot elevation (7,000 in Pinos Altos) and the usually dry southwest air lends itself to plenty of sunshine and temperatures that are not too cold and not too hot – most consider it just right.

Contributing to low stress levels, the National Weather Service notes that Grant County is far removed from areas prone to hurricanes, tornadoes earthquakes tsunamis and volcanoes. The relaxed atmosphere is also a result of, well, that’s just the way it is in New Mexico and especially in Silver City.

GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER A PLANETREE AFFILIATE As a Planetree Affiliate, Gila Regional is committed to patient-centered programs.

That translates into patient gowns that provide more dignity, design, color and comfort, a Pet Therapy Program, restaurantstyle menus, a courtyard labyrinth and redecorated rooms – everything focused on providing a more positive healing environment… even a more patient-friendly billing system.

24 – www.silvercity.org

The other major stress beater is the opportunity for outdoor exercise. There are over 3 million acres of forest in Silver City’s backyard, crisscrossed by 1500 miles of hiking trails and 310 species of birds to attract your attention. Silver City even has its own set of trails and open spaces in case you don’t want to venture too far from a hot meal and soft bed. The Boston Hill views overlooking Silver City are spectacular.

For those preferring to avoid the abundant sunshine, there are a host of gyms; classes for exercise, dance, yoga and water aerobics; health food stores and menus; and don’t forget the healthy art of shopping in the historic district.

Finally, should the need arise, Silver City has excellent medical facilities to care for every age group in a 4-county region.

A Grant County owned facility, the medical center was dedicated in 1983 and serves Grant, Hidalgo, Luna and Catron Counties.

It is licensed for 68 beds and 12 basinets. It employs 700 people.

With brightly lit hallways and artwork on loan from Silver City artists, Gila Regional embarked on a new era in 2003. It was accepted as a Planetree affiliate, the first in New Mexico, and initiated certain patient-centered programs not usually found in hospitals, making hospital care in Silver City a much more personal and effective experience.

Medical care at Gila Regional includes a behavioral health unit, a fully-equipped wellness center, cancer center, infusion therapy, lithotripsy, sleep lab and much more.

Opportunities & Services for Seniors In additional to the excellent medical services just described, Silver City has a very active senior community that participates in a variety of activities, from exercise programs to knitting, beads and art classes. Volunteerism for seniors is a key ingredient locally and extremely important for arts and performance openings and celebrations, the hospital, museum and visitor center, to mention only a few. When the time comes for requiring help, there are several levels of senior care facilities available.

A Bit of Everything for Everyone Grant County and the surrounding area has an amazing array of attractions for those who just want to drive from point A to point B to snap a picture and for those who want to rough it for days on end through pristine wilderness. There are mountain lakes and intriguing rock formations, the cliff dwellings of an ancient culture, a well-preserved fort manned by the buffalo soldiers and a breath-taking open pit mine that has produced millions of pounds of copper over the last 200 years.

Silver City has its own attractions from hiking trails and parks to a reconstructed chapel with a colorful story. Just driving through the historic downtown district is an experience in itself, with the secrets of 124 years clinging to every brick and lamppost. Silver City is a hub for adventure and the visitor center has the information to get you rolling.

Of course, if you just want to sip your coffee and enjoy a good book in the fresh mountain air, people do that in Silver City.

26 – www.silvercity.org

TREASURES OF THE SOUTHERN ROCKIES CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARK A collection of huge boulders scattered across a knoll provides hide-and-seek trails and rockclimbing thrills. Formed by the erosion of an old lava flow, the free-standing rocks provide a great setting for a family outing or picnic. The park includes a visitor center, desert garden and camping sites.

LAKE ROBERTS Bordering the Trail of the Mountain Spirits National Scenic Byway, the 75-acre lake offers fishing for trout, crappie, catfish and even a few bass. There are two campgrounds, boat ramps and picnic spots, some good bird watching opportunities (as many as 10 species of hummingbirds), hiking trails and a small Indian pit house site.

PINOS ALTOS Located on the Continental Divide just north of Silver City, Pinos Altos was the location of a mini-gold rush era and plenty of Apache skirmishes. At 7000 feet in elevation, the ponderosa pine grows tall and area artists keep their palettes handy. The hamlet hosts the Hearst Church gallery, a replica of Fort Cobre, an opera house, museum, restaurant and cabins.

GILA CLIFF DWELLINGS NATIONAL MONUMENT Surrounded by rugged wilderness, except for a narrow strip of land with a paved road to the monument, a visitor center, museum and short hike to the cliff dwellings reveal the living standards of an ancient culture. The dwellings were only occupied for about 20 years, but the inhabitants were protected from both animals and enemies.

CONTINENTAL DIVIDE NATIONAL SCENIC TRAIL The footpath stretching from Mexico to Canada winds along the mountain ridges of the Gila, passing through Pinos Altos and just beyond the outskirts of Silver City. The high country trail provides opportunities for locals and visitors to take day hikes above rugged canyons and through dense ponderosa forests.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 27

The Mimbres culture left their village ruins and unique pottery art and the nomadic Apache left a few intriguing pictoglyphs on canyon walls. It was the arrival of European influences through Mexico and the eastern United States in 1800, however, that initiated an upheaval in human relations and land-use development. Indians utilized the area for hunting and raising their families and the white man wanted the land for its deposits of copper, gold and silver as well as the grasslands for feeding cattle. That inevitably led to clashes between Native Americans and the new arrivals.

Nineteenth and twentieth century man has definitely left his footprint in southwest New Mexico in the form of cavalry forts and large-scale mining operations. Conversely, he also managed to set aside huge tracts of land designated as wilderness, where his tracks are few and far between. From small-scale gold panning to the moving of mountains for copper, man sought the riches of southwest New Mexico while clamoring for protection from native groups and striving to preserve forests for future generations.

Photo by Jackie Blurton

RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES HIKING There are hiking opportunities with over 1,510 miles of trails. Elevations range from around 6,000 to over 11,000 feet. With numerous trailheads all around the perimeter of the forest you are never too far from a great hike.

BIKING The mild climate makes it possible to enjoy yearround biking. For Road Bikes, good pavement offers good riding on all highways and scenic byways. For Mountain Bikes there are great mountain bike trails in the Gila National Forest.

BIRDING Grant County offers outstanding birding locations, where each year approximately 339 (85 percent) of the bird species found in New Mexico can be spotted. The Gila River Bird Habitat offers great birding with easy access along the Gila River.

STARGAZING The area’s high elevation, dry climate and rural communities creates some of the clearest and darkest night skies in the nation. Both amateur and professional astronomers appreciate the Milky Way, seasonal meteor showers and other cosmic events that can often be observed with the naked eye.

Mining and ranching continue as the major industries of the region, with more recent upswings in economies related to tourism and the arts. The results today are a land-use balance that provides great diversity in both economic development and recreational opportunities.

Photo by Bob Pelham

Photo by Judy Wuthrich

Footprints in Time

For the visitor, Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark and adjacent National cemetery offer a glimpse into military life in the 1800s. The Santa Rita open pit copper mine and headframes of previous underground mining operations relate to the area’s wealth of minerals. The 3.3 million acre Gila National Forest offers lakes, streams, campgrounds, mountain vistas, hiking trails, birding opportunities, wilderness, and the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. To the north of Silver City near Glenwood is the gold-mining ghost town of Mogollon. In a canyon below is the Catwalk National Recreation Trail with picnic grounds and a metal walkway clinging to the bluffs of a narrow canyon that originally carried water to a mineral processing mill.

Photo by Debra Sutton

Fabulous getaway nestled in the tall pines of Pinos Altos.

DIVERSE ATTRACTIONS FORT BAYARD A National Historic Landmark and National Cemetery includes well-maintained officers quarters and clubhouse and a parade ground with a bronze buffalo soldier statue. In the late 1800s, the fort was manned by the black cavalry group that reportedly included the only female black soldier serving with the buffalo soldiers.

THE CATWALK NATIONAL RECREATION TRAIL Located near Glenwood, the trail follows Whitewater Creek deep into the Gila Wilderness. The lower origin of the trail includes picnic grounds under a canopy of sycamore trees and a steel walkway or catwalk clinging to walls of a narrow, 250-feet deep canyon.

MOGOLLON GHOST TOWN Historic remnants of the old Little Fanney Mine, among the richest in the region. Just 9 miles from Glewood, historic buildings are still predominant on main street. A seasonal B & B, restaurant and museum are open at times.

SANTA RITA MINE A huge open pit copper operation has been the source of millions of pounds of copper. Originally mined for the Mexican mint in 1800 using underground methods, a transition to open pit mining took place in the early 1900s. The original town of Santa Rita was eventually consumed by the pit.

GILA NATIONAL FOREST & WILDERNESS AREAS Provide opportunities for numerous recreational activities. Paved roads provide scenic access to lakes, streams and the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. The region is crisscrossed by 1500 miles of hiking and horseback trails and includes the Gila and Aldo Leopold Wilderness areas.

Manzano’s RV Park Surrounded by Trees, Nature and Tranquility

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575.388.4501 888.388.4515 Make reservations & view availability online

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Silver City KOA Silver City’s Best Camping.

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RV Park

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 29

Downtown Area Attractions The historic downtown area of Silver City is known for its galleries, restaurants and shopping opportunities.

Shopping becomes more enjoyable when in good physical condition for wandering through all the quaint little downtown shops, and you should plan ahead for a relaxing lunch or park bench for resting one’s feet at some point during the day.

The trail systems developed by the city with help from businesses and volunteers definitely provides the opportunity to be in tip-top shopping shape. The shaded benches and gurgling creek in Big Ditch Park provide solutions to tired feet and a great place to munch on those fresh pastries you just purchased at the local coffee shop.

Ease into your next shopping spree AFTER taking advantage of the city’s trail systems. They are invigorating for the exercise, the views and for clearing the cobwebs out of your brain prior to choosing a painting for your living room. There are excellent gyms and workout rooms for those who might have concerns about fresh air and sunshine, but at least give the fresh air option a try.

TRAILS AND A BIT OF HISTORY BIG DITCH PARK Paralleling Bullard Street, San Vicente creek under the shade of large cottonwood trees includes park benches, antique street lights and a wide section used for arts and crafts shows. Initially the main street of Silver City, floods in 1895 and 1903 gouged out a crevice 55 feet below the original street level.

O.S. WARREN HOUSE Constructed in 1885, the house faced what was then Main Street. It was the only structure in that section of Main Street to survive the 1895 flood that created San Vicente Arroyo - The Big Ditch. The two-story, red-brick building can be found next to the foot bridge that now crosses Big Ditch Park.

SAN VICENTE TRAIL The shady northern end of the trail follows San Vicente Creek for a half mile under a canopy of cottonwood trees. The trail then climbs into piñon-juniper woodlands. The path was constructed by the Youth Conservation Corps with outdoor classroom signage placed by the Grant County Environmental Center.

BILLY THE KID CABIN The site marks the homestead where the outlaw spent part of his childhood with his mother, brother, and stepfather, William Antrim.

The cabin is true to the 1870's era and was donated by Ron Howard from his 2003 movie The Missing.

30 – www.silvercity.org

OVERLOOKING SILVER CITY LA CAPILLA Originally constructed in 1885, the little chapel overlooking Silver City was built to house a statue of the Virgin of Guadalupe. The chapel fell into disrepair and was taken down in 1914. A replica was completed in 2004, anchoring the north end of a 23-acre park in progress with trails joining the Boston Hill and Big Ditch trail systems.

BOSTON HILL Consisting of 550 acres of open space and 12 miles of trails within Silver City, the complex offers magnificent views across the city toward the surrounding mountains. Formerly a site for manganese mining, the trails are used for both hiking and biking. Trailheads are on Cooper, Spring, Market and Cheyenne Streets.

Map courtesy Jackie Blurton

Silver City Map

Fine Dinin Live Entertainment Fine Wine • Beer • Steaks • Seafood Tues-Sun 9am-10pm

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SILVER CITY COMMUNITY GUIDE – 31

IMPORTANT NUMBERS STATE REPRESENTATIVES

TOWN OF SILVER CITY

VILLAGE OF SANTA CLARA

Senator Howie C. Morales D-Catron, Grant & Socorro Counties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(505) 986-4863 Representative Dianne Miller Hamilton R-Grant, Hidalgo & Sierra Counties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(505) 986-4221 Representative Rudy Martinez D-Grant & Hidalgo Counties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .(505) 986-4233

City Manager – Alex Brown Mayor – James R. Marshall City Councilors District 1 – Cynthia Ann Bettison District 2 – Jamie K. Thomson District 3 – Vacant District 4 – Michael S. Morones Administrative Offices 101 W. Broadway . . . . . . . . . . .538-3731 After Hours – All Services . . . . .388-8840 Animal Control . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-8840 Annex 1203 N. Hudson . . . . . .538-3731 City Shop 800 N. gold . . . . . . .388-3577 Engineering 1203 N. Hudson . .538-6365 Fire Department Non-Emergency 1011 N. Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . .538-2591 32nd Street Sub-Station . . . . .388-4504 Municipal Court 213 N. Bullard . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4504 Museum 312 W. Broadway . . .538-5921 Parks Department 610 E. 8th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4640 Planning & Zoning 1203 N. Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3731 Police Department - Non-Emergency 1011 N. Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3723 Public Library 515 W. College . . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3672 Public Works Department Administrative Office 610 E. 8th . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4640 Maintenance 800 N. Gold . . . .388-3577 Recreation Center 1016 N. Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-3087 Sanitation Division 800 N. Gold . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4640 Streets Division 800 N. Gold . .388-4640 Swimming Pool 2700 N. Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4165 Utilities Department 1203 N. Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3731 Waste Water Treatment 1600 Filaree Road . . . . . . . . . . .388-4981 Water Works Warehouse 1800 Little Walnut Road . . . . . .538-2082 Purchasing Department 101 W. Broadway . . . . . . . . . . .538-3731

Mayor – Richard Baunch mayor Pro Tem – Mark Castillo Trustees Albert Esparza Amanda Chavez Richard Esparza Village Hall 105 N. Bayard . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-5464 Fire Department Non-Emergency 103 N. Bayard . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-3780 Police Department - Non-Emergency 105 N. Bayard . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-5464 Maintenance 410 N. Bayard . . .537-3106 Municipal Court 105 N. Bayard . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-6417

STATE GOVERNMENT District Court - Courthouse Silver City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3250 District Attorney . . . . . . . . . . . .388-1941 Fort Bayard Medical Center . . .537-3302 New Mexico Game & Fish . . . .534-4023 Public Health Division . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .538-5318 or 538-8573 Highway & Transportation . . . .544-6530 Workforce Connections . . . . . .538-3737 Magistrate Court #1–1620 E. Pine Silver City . . .538-3811 #2–701 Central, Bayard . . . . . .537-3042 National Guard Armory 11990 Hwy. 180 E. Santa Clara 537-6208 Taxation & Revenue Tax Information . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-4403 Motor Vehicle Division 1876 Hwy. 180 East . . . . . . . . .538-3281 Veterans Outpatient Clinic 1302 E. 32nd Street . . . . . . . . .538-2921 GRANT COUNTY County Manager Jon Paul Saari . . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0001 County Commissioners District 1 – Gabriel Ramos . . . .574-0021 District 2 – Brett Kasten . . . . . .574-0022 District 3 – Christy Miller . . . . .574-0023 Administrative Center 1400 Hwy. 180 East . . . . . . . . .574-0000 Airport 188 Airport Road, Hurley . . . . .388-4554 Assessor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0030 Clerk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0042 County Extension Service 2610 N. Silver Street . . . . . . . .388-1559 Detention Center . . . . . . . . . . .534-3803 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0070 Probate Judge . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0071 Road Department Fairway Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . .538-3316 Sheriff - Non Emergency 201 N. Cooper . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0010 Regional Dispatch 2606 N. Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . .388-8840 Solid Waste Department . . . . .574-0024 Teen Court 2610 N. Silver . . . .388-4504 Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .574-0055 Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 • 575-538-3785 www.silvercity.org

32 – www.silvercity.org

FEDERAL GOVERNMENT Gila Cliff Dwellings . . . . . . . . .536-9461 USDA Forest Service 3005 E. Camino Del Bosque . . .388-8201 Glenwood Ranger Station . . . .539-2481 Wilderness Ranger Station Mimbres . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .536-2250 USPS Silver City Office 500 N. Hudson . . . . . . . . . . . . .538-2831

CITY OF BAYARD Mayor – Charles L. Kelly Councilors Jovita G. Gonzales Louis F. Baum Sr. Chon Fierro Armando Arzola City Hall 800 Central Avenue . . . . . . . . .537-3327 Community Center 209 Hurley Ave . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-7534 Fire Department Non-Emergency 801 Central Ave . . . . . . . . . . . .537-3311 Maintenance Warehouse 302 N. East . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .537-5384 Motor Vehicle Department 801 Central Ave . . . . . . . . . . . .537-5313 Police Department - Non-Emergency 801 N. Central Ave. . . . . . . . . .537-3312 Public Library 1125 Central Ave. . . . . . . . . . . .537-6244 Utilities Department 800 Central Ave. . . . . . . . . . . . .537-3327

TOWN OF HURLEY Mayor – Edward Encinal Mayor Pro Tem – Richard Maynes Councilors Velia Miranda Fernando Martinez Freddie Rodriguez Town Hall 101 Cortez Ave. . . . . . . . . . . . .537-2287 Community Center 312 Carasco Ave . . . . . . . . . . .537-5756 Fire Department Non-Emergency 201 Carrasco Ave . . . . . . . . . . .537-2958 Police Department - Non-Emergency 101 Cortez Ave. . . . . . . . . . . . .537-3220 Hurley Pride Committee. . . . . .537-2124

Map courtesy Jackie Blurton

Area Map

MILEAGE FROM SILVER CITY TO SCENIC DESTINATIONS Catwalk of Whitewater Canyon 68 miles. Travel time one way: 1 hr. 15 min.

Estimated time to hike the Catwalk: 2 hrs.

Gila River Bird Habitat Management Unit 68 miles. Travel time one way: 1 hr.

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument 48 miles to Cliff Dwellings via NM 15.

64 miles to Cliff Dwellings via NM 152 & 35.

Travel time either way: 1 hr. 45 min. to 2 hrs.

Estimated time to see the Dwellings: 1 hour.

Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark 15 miles. Travel time one way: 15 min.

City of Rocks State Park 35 miles. Travel time one way: 40 min.

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 • 575-538-3785 www.silvercity.org

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY COMMUNITY GUIDE – C3

PRESRT STD US POSTAGE PAID Silver City, NM 88061 PERMIT No. 10

GRANT COUNTY

Silver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson Street Silver City, New Mexico 88061 www.silvercity.org

CONVENIENCE & COMFORT

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