Silver City Visitor & Relocation Guide 2014-15

WELCOMEToSilver City and Grant County WRITTEN BY CISSY McANDREW I PHOTO BY JOE BURGESS

Silver City is a great place to visit and a wonderful place to live! We continue to be recognized as one of the “Best Small Towns” in the country for our Historic Main Street, locally-grown organic foods, fine independent restaurants, vibrant arts scene, special events, gentle climate and downright friendly people. The rich mining and ranching history, blend of Hispanic and Anglo cultures, blue skies (with 360 days of sunshine), vast landscapes, natural wonderlands, and small town atmosphere, create a genuine “Americana”. Embraced by the Continental Divide, five life zones overlap near town... providing the greatest diversity of habitats in North America and making an exceptional basecamp for ecotourism.

Silver City is the oldest incorporated town in New Mexico (and the only one still operating under a Territorial Charter). The multi-cultural frontier location continues to be the area’s center for commerce with pet-friendly independently-owned businesses that will order what you need and provide personal customer service. It’s unique, with 90 miles to the nearest mall and 45 to the closest chain restaurants, you’ll feel a special “sense of place” that sets Silver City and Grant County apart from the rest of the world. The Town’s commitment to building a sustainable economy includes curbside recycling, water conservation and solar energy projects that provide a special quality of life.

Honesty and common courtesies prevail. The relaxed pace is a custom newcomers are often challenged to adapt. Sundays are spent with family and friends, and shops are often closed…so plan to visit the museums and cultural sites, or enjoy a scenic drive.

Horns are tooted to say “hi” to friends (not rush traffic), and locals find another route if two vehicles (or grocery carts) are side by side blocking a thoroughfare… as we know that folks are taking the time to talk and catch up with one another. We stop on the side of the road and wait for funeral processions to pass, and also pull over for faster motorists if we are moseying along back roads. It’s all part of the mutual respect, part of enjoying the moment, part of our way of life.

Plan a visit and experience our warm hospitality. Consider becoming an active member of our community. If you do…you’ll probably find that “this is the place you’ve been looking for all along”.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 3

QUICK FACTS

CONTENTS

OUR COVER

CLIMATE

The arts, music and an exciting year-round array of both indoor and outdoor activities form the foundation for extraordinary lifestyles and vacations in the Silver City/Grant County region.

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. At an elevation of 6000 ft. the Semi-arid climate offers mild temperatures, giving us four gentle seasons to enjoy.

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun

L

H

24 26 30 37 45 55

51 55 59 68 77 87

P

1.08" Jul 1.13" Aug 0.95" Sep 0.58" Oct 0.39" Nov 0.68" Dec

L

H

60 58 52 42 30 24

88 85 81 72 59 52

P

3.02" 3.06" 1.97" 1.26" 0.71" 1.24"

H - High L - Low P - Average Precipitation (Inches)

Average annual temperature: 70° Average annual moisture: 15.69 inches Total Snowfall: Mean 11.8"; High 27.0"

LOCATION Silver City is located in Grant County in southwest New Mexico. It is on the Continental Divide and in 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 almost equidistant from both El Paso and Tucson and from Denver, Dallas and Los Angeles.

DIRECTIONS TO SILVER CITY On US 180, travel 62 miles southeast from Glenwood or 52 miles northwest from Deming. On NM 90 travel 44 miles northeast from Lordsburg.

ELEVATION Elevations in Grant County range from 4,000 above sea level in the high desert at the southern end of the county to mountains touching 10,000 feet in the north. Silver City, Bayard, Hurley and the central part of the county are just under 6,000 feet above sea level. Pinos Altos and other nearby communities to the north and east are at 6,000 to 7,000 feet.

NEW MEXICO FACTS Statehood: January 6, 1912 Capital: Santa Fe Flag: Red Zia on field of gold Ballad: Land of Enchantment Songs: Oh, Fair New Mexico and Asi Es Nuevo Mexico Motto: Crescit Eundo (It Grows As It Goes) Poem: A Nuevo Mexico Cookie: Biscochito Gem: Turquoise Bird: Roadrunner (Chaparral) Flower: Yucca Tree: Piñon Animal: Black Bear Fish: Rio Grande Cutthroat Trout

4 – www.ZiaPublishing.com

HIGHLIGHTS FEATURES 3 Welcome to Grant County. A unique community where you’ll feel a special “sense of place” that sets Silver City and Grant County apart from the rest of the world.

6 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.

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

10 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.

12 Festivals & Events. Sanctioned rodeos, big-name cyclists, and the best Blues musicians in the nation draw international audiences.

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

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

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

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

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

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

7 A Draw for Visitors and Locals 9 A Living History It’s the Presentation 11 Cultural Experiences 12 The Main Events 15 Treasures of the Southern Rockies 16 Trails and a Bit of History 17 Recreation Diverse Attractions 19 Preserving the Heritage 20 Major Industries 21 Frontier People 22 A Lifestyle for Everyone 27 Developing Minds 29 Gila Regional Medical Center Cassie Health Center For Women 31 Horizon Hospice Fort Bayard Medical Center Hidalgo Medical Services (HMS)

DEPARTMENTS 4 Quick Facts 20 Historic Sites 18 Best Small Town Ratings Grant County Profile 8 Driver’s Licenses & Registration, Youth Organizations 10 Area Museums, Arts Organizations Clubs & Organizations 12 Calendar of Events 14 Parks & Monuments, Ghost Towns.

Lakes & Outdoors 16 Licenses, Pets 22 Financial Institutions, Housing Facts, Real Estate Companies, Community Services 24 Community Map 26 Primary & Secondary Education Higher Education, Day Care Area Libraries, Sports & Recreation 28 Health Care, Area Churches Volunteer Organizations 30 Silver City Map, Area Map

Silver City Grant County

Visitor & Relocation Guide ZIA PUBLISHING CORP. Terri Menges President & Managing Director Joseph Burgess Vice President & Photo Journalist Arlyn Cooley Staff Accountant Joseph Burgess Writing & Photography except where credited Adrian Duran Laura Howell LeAnne Knudsen Judy Wuthrich Contributing Photographers Terri Menges Debra Sutton Designers Jennifer Douglass LeAnne Knudsen Advertising Sales Special Thanks Kim Clark Adrian Duran Laura Howell Cissy McAndrew Faye McCalmont Tracy Spikes Scott Terry Abe Villareal

Silver City Grant County Visitor & Relocation Guide is published annually 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., 2014. 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.

Cissy McAndrew Associate, EcoBroker® & GREEN Realtor

575.538.1337 800.827.9198

Cell Office

CissyMcAndrew@gmail.com

www.SilverCityTour.com 414 N. Bullard St. • Silver City, NM 88061

Dedicated to building a local sustainable community.

Think Local, Buy Local, Invest Local 575-538-4332

www.swGreenChamber.org

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 5

QUICK FACTS MILEAGE TO SILVER CITY Lake Roberts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 miles Lordsburg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 miles Deming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 miles Glenwood . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 miles Palomas, Mexico . . . . . . . . . . . 88 miles Truth or Consequences . . . . . . 90 miles Las Cruces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 miles White Sands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 miles El Paso . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154 miles Socorro . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161 miles Alamogordo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180 miles Tucson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200 miles Ruidoso . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228 miles Albuquerque . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236 miles Gallup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256 miles Roswell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297 miles Santa Fe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297 miles Phoenix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 313 miles Carlsbad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320 miles Taos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 367 miles Grand Canyon . . . . . . . . . . . . 415 miles San Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 606 miles Denver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 682 miles Los Angeles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 684 miles Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 787 miles Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 901 miles Salt Lake City . . . . . . . . . . . . . 999 miles San Francisco . . . . . . . . . . . 1069 miles St. Louis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1279 miles Mexico City . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1284 miles Chicago . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1695 miles Seattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1837 miles Miami . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2120 miles Washington DC . . . . . . . . . . 2188 miles New York City . . . . . . . . . . . 2254 miles Montreal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2409 miles Boston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2469 miles 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 Mgmt. 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 hr.

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.

LODGING Hotels & Motels 13 Bed & Breakfasts 5 Cabins & Cottages 29 RV Parks & Private Campgrounds 12 Public Camping 5

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

VISITOR INFORMATION Murray Ryan Visitor Center 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 M-S 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm MST 575-538-5555 • www.SilverCityTourism.org Silver City Grant Co. Chamber of Commerce 3130 Hwy. 180 E. - Suite C • P.O. Box 1028 Silver City, NM 88062-1028 • 575-538-3785 800-538-9378 • www.SilverCity.org SWNM Green Chamber of Commerce 406 N. Bullard St. • P.O. Box 2020 Silver City, NM 88061 • 575-538-4332 scgreenchamber@gmail.com

6 – www.ZiaPublishing.com

BEST SMALL TOWNS COMMUNITY VALUES or the past two decades, Silver City has been continually recognized nationally for its livability, historic preservation and the arts. Books and magazines highlight the area’s solid arts community, preservation of historic architecture, university atmosphere, cultural diversity and a vast assortment of outdoor activities for people of all ages. One of the best climates imaginable expands the list of year-round opportunities and a backyard of accessible forest and pristine wilderness solidifies the ratings.

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. Independent 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 one of 50 Best Places to Live 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 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 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.

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.

Others include 10 Most Exciting Places In New Mexico...Movoto Real Estate, One of America's Coolest Desert Towns...Travel & Leisure, A Best Small Town to Visit in 2014!...Smithsonian.com, Remnants of the riches of the 1880s silver boom...Phoenix Home and Garden, ROOM WITH A VIEW At the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument in New Mexico...Los Angeles Times, 50 Best Places to Live: The Next Great Adventure Towns...National Geograpgic Adventure Magazine, Bordering a wilderness area, historic mining town mixes rustic settings with strong community spirit... Where to Retire, One of Ten Coolest Towns...Budget Travel Magazine, The Real New Mexico Experience...New York Times, From mining bust to tourist boom Silver City celebrates 20 years of New Mexico MainStreet...Outside Magazine, Top Public Hunting Areas...Outdoor Life Magazine, A Mountain Hideaway in the Land of Enchantment...

SW Aviator Magazine, Best of the West Mining Town... True West Magazine.

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.

F

CONVENIENCE & COMFORT

Combined with Premium Amenities

Holiday Inn Express in beautiful, culturally diverse Silver City is your ideal homebase for both vacation and business trips.

Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will aid you in exploring the nearby attractions of Silver City, Grant County, and the Gila National Forest. Located near Grant County Airport, Freeport McMoRan Mining Company, Gila Regional Medical Center, Western New Mexico University, Grant County Business & Conference Center, and Corre Caminos Transit Depot.

A DRAW FOR VISITORS AND LOCALS

THEATER The Mimbres Region 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.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS Annual events include Tour of the Gila bicycle race, Silver City Blues Festival, Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo and Chocolate Fantasia.

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.

• Complimentary hot breakfast bar

• 100% non-smoking hotel

• Wired/Wireless high-speed internet

• Fully equipped Fitness Center

• 24-hour Business Center

• Golf packages

• Conference Room with breakout area (accommodates up to 33 people)

2014 Renovations:

• Pets allowed in select rooms

OUTDOOR POOL ADA KING SUITE

Located just off US Highway 180 East behind Wendy’s

GRILLING AREA

1103 Superior Street • Silver City NM 88061

FIRE PIT FOR STAR GAZING

100% RENOVATION OF ALL FACILITIES & ROOMS

575.538.2525 • 1-800-HOLIDAY www.hiexpress.com

We Understand Commitment For decades, Edward Jones has been committed to providing financial solutions and personalized service to individual investors.

You can rely on us for: • Convenience Locations in the community and face-to-face meetings at your convenience.

• A Quality-focused Investment Philosophy A long-term approach that focuses on quality investments and diversification • Highly Personal Service Investment guidance tailored to your individual needs

Call or visit today.

James Edd Hughs, AAMS® Financial Advisor 210 Hwy 180 W Suite 100 Silver City, NM 88061 575-534-1221

www.edwardjones.com

Member SIPC

MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 7

QUICK FACTS

DOWNTOWN

TAXES

A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

Residential Property: (Levied % of Value)1.83% Commercial Property: (Levied % of Value) 2.54% Grant County Sales Tax Rate: 7.25%

HOUSING 2010 Median Home Value: $123,300 2010 Median Gross Rent: $593/mo.

CRIME RATE 2010 Recordings: 13 violent crimes and 149 property crimes. Grant County has a relatively low crime rate and the lowest rate for both violent crimes and property crimes per 10,000 residents among communities benchmarked.

COST OF LIVING Grant County Index: 85.2, which is nearly 15% lower than the U.S. average of 100.0.

UTILITIES Electric: PNM Natural Gas: PNM Gas Services Water: Town of Silver City (deep wells) Sewage: Town of Silver City Telephone: CenturyLink, Vonage WNM Communications

RECYCLING Town of Silver City Sanitation Division USA Can & Nonferrous

DRIVER’S LICENSES REGISTRATION PLATES/TITLES New Mexico Motor Vehicle Division. $18.00/4 years/CDL, permits, provisional, ret. (Need proof of insurance.) 90 days to change to new Driver’s License and Plates. Once you are in the system you can renew by mail. Hours: M-F 8am-4pm.

INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS Full coverage insurance on vehicles with bank liens on them and liability insurance on vehicles that have no bank liens on them.

DRIVING LAWS S.E. Safety Belt Law. Primary Enforcement Child Restraint Law. (No Gaps) A state is considered not to have gaps in its child restraint laws if all occupants under the age of 16 are covered by either a child restraint law or a safety belt law.

Open Container Law. Complies with the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21): .08 BAC Per Se Law. Complies with federal .08 Blood Alcohol Content per se law.

A: Learner Stage. Provision 1. Six month holding period. A novice driver must be supervised by an adult licensed driver at all times. If the learner remains conviction free for six months he or she progresses to the intermediate stage.

In an optimal provision, there is not a reduction in this amount of time if the driver takes a driver's education course.

YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS YWCA Children Program Before/After School Program Summer Baseball Summer Softball Soccer League Summer Free Lunch Program Swimming Lessons Camp Thunderbird Recreation Center Program Big Brothers/Big Sisters Pop Warner Baseball

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Downtown Silver City is special. The streets and buildings create a picture-book atmosphere. The galleries, shops and restaurants, most within walking distance of each other, are warm and friendly – truly friendly because they depend on a balance of support from both locals and visitors. Shopkeepers are courteous because that’s the type of people that have been drawn to Silver City for the past couple of centuries. Take the time to check out the architecture, shake hands with a few business owners, share a few stories and experience the real difference between Silver City and wherever it is you have been calling home. Cameras and sketchpads are welcome.

HISTORIC DISTRICT 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 architecture of those intriguing eras. Victorian homes, the county courthouse, city hall and three theater buildings highlight the district that also includes renovated business, bank and hotel buildings. You will notice the high curbs that allow annual monsoon runoff to pass through without damaging structures. The streets are lighted with antique poles, and rings for tying off a trusty steed can still be spotted in front of several businesses. A lot of brickwork was used in downtown construction and locally fired tile grace an occasional storefront as well as murals that are part of local arts programs. Bullard Street and Broadway form the primary axis for shopping, with Yankie, Texas and Market streets contributing numerous galleries and eateries. Cottonwoodlined Big Ditch Park was originally 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 are interspersed with coffee shops and restaurants

for resting tired shopper’s feet and catching up on local gossip. Art walks are common and outdoor art and performance functions occur frequently at Big Ditch and Gough Parks and occasionally on blocked-off streets. Other venues include the Silco Theater, Silver City Museum annex, Buffalo Bar Dance Hall, Mimbres Region Arts Council Gallery, WNMU Francis McCray Gallery and WNMU Performing Arts Center Theater. Museums include the Silver City Museum and Western New Mexico University Museum.

FITNESS For those with energy to spare, the city maintains a trail system connecting its downtown parks with the surrounding foothills, from creek bottoms to scenic overviews.

There are also well-equipped fitness centers, exercise studios and massage parlors.

Fine Dinin Steaks - Seafood - Pastas Salads - Gluten Free Entrées Decadent Homemade Desserts Fine Wine - Beer Full Catering & Event Planning

Establis ed A LIVING HISTORY

1996

Parlor Light Fare & Live Entertainment

SILVER CITY MUSEUM Located in the 1881 Mansard/Italianate home of H.B. Ailman, the museum presents an annual schedule of unique exhibits and programs. Over 30,000 historic photographs and artifacts tell the stories and celebrate the rich diverse history and cultural heritage of one of the most intriguing regions in the Southwest. The Museum Store features New Mexico arts and crafts, books and gifts.

Tues-Fri 11am – 10pm Sat & Sun 9am-10pm

510 N. BULLARD • 575.538.8722 find us on facebook

IT’S THE PRESENTATION… SILVER CITY 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 the 2011 Great American MainStreet Award, 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.

dianesrestaurant@gmail.com

DianesRestaurant.com

Visit HISTORIC DOW N TO W N

Silver City ARTWORK Regional Art in Galleries and Artists’ Studios LODGING Historic, Bed & Breakfast, Guesthouses

SHOPPING One-of-a-kind Shops FOOD & DRINK

Award Winning Cafes & Brew Pub OFFICE LOCATED AT

575.534.170 0

MURRAY RYAN VISITOR CENTER

S I LVE R C IT Y MAI N STR E E T.C O M

201 N. HUDSON ST.

DELICIOUS MADE-IN-HOUSE ITALIAN ICE CREAM ’s favorite Silver City p! dessert sto gelato wonderful Dishing up erts ss ptious de and scrum n w to n Dow in Historic .

03 20 e nc si Silver City

in a multitude of flavors including special seasonal offerings.

Sun.-Thur. noon ‘til 9pm Fri.-Sat. noon ‘til 10pm

619 N. Bullard 575-534-4995 www.AlottaGelato.com

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 9

QUICK FACTS AREA MUSEUMS MUSEUMS: 3 Silver City Museum: Founded in 1967. A restored Mansard/Italianate home built by H.B. Ailman with 30,000 objects relating to the peoples and history of southwest New Mexico. Free Admission.

WNMU Museum: Celebrated its 30th Anniversary November 6, 2004. Home of Pottery and Artifacts of Prehistoric Southwestern Cultures including the Nan Ranch Collection, the largest and most complete scientifically excavated collection of Mimbres material culture in existence. Available for viewing are historic photographs of Silver City and surrounding areas. Free Admission.

Pinos Altos Historical Museum: Circa 1860s. Located in a log cabin that once served as the first school house in Grant County the museum houses a great collection of mining artifacts and historic memorabilia. Free Admission.

ARTS ORGANIZATIONS GALLERIES: 20+ Mimbres Region Arts Council 538-2505 Silver City Arts & Cultural Dist. 538-5560 San Vicente Artists 590-8633 Grant County Art Guild 574-2831 Grant Co. Community Concert Assn.

538-5862 Silver City Gallery Assn. 313-9631 WNMU Expressive Arts 538-6614 International Film Society scfilmsoc@gmail.com

CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS

American Legion American Red Cross Audubon Society Back Country Horsemen Big Brothers Big Sisters Business & Professional Women Casa Mia Ranch Copper Country Cruizers Copper Cowbelles Elks Club Evergreen Garden Club Family Community Education Clubs Ft. Bayard Historic Preservation Society Friends of the Fire & Rescue Volunteers Friends of the Library Gila Conservation Education Center Gila Native Plant Society Gila Rangers Grant County Archaeological Society Grant County Art Guild Grant County Community Consert Assn.

Habitat for Humanity High Desert Humane Society Hurley Pride Committee International Film Society Kennel Club Silver City Kiwanis Knights of Columbus Silver City Lions Club LULAC Silver City Masonic Lodge No. 8 Silver City Moose Lodge Newcomers Club Optimists Red Hat Society Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Society Silver City Rotary Silver City Aglow Silver City Film Festival Silver City Grant County Home Builders Silver City MainStreet Project Silver City Women’s Club Southwest Horesman Assn.

Southwestern NM Audubon Society Town and Country Garden Club VFW

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A SERIOUS COMMITMENT

R

ecognition as one of the 100 Best Art Towns in America continues to push Silver City toward the degree of quality performance envied by much larger communities. Luring Interstate Highway travelers and visitors from Southwest cities to this highly functional arts community has been no accident. A beautiful setting and a lot of hard work by artists, support organizations and marketing media have created a haven for the arts.

MIMBRES REGION ARTS COUNCIL (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!, Black Tie Benefit Ball 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 various visual arts events throughout the county. It co-sponsors the PNM Fine Arts Fridays 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 resulting in over 30 murals throughout the county.

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.

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 2013 season includes Countertenor Terry Barber in February, The La Catrina String Quarter in March and The Side Street Strutters in April. www.gcconcerts.org MRAC 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 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 arts and cultural 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!

FINE ART

•

MUSEUM

•

GIFTS

CUSTOM PICTURE FRAMING

J W ART GALLERY 575.537.0300 99 Cortez Avenue Hurley NM Hours: Wed.-Fri. 9-5 Sat.-Sun. 10-5 Preview Artists:

www.jwartgallery.com

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 11

Jan Feb Mar Apr

Murray Ryan Visitor Center 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 M-S 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm MST 575-538-5555 • www.SilverCityTourism.org Silver City Grant Co. Chamber of Commerce 3130 Hwy. 180 E. - Suite C • P.O. Box 1028 Silver City, NM 88062-1028 • 575-538-3785 800-538-9378 • www.SilverCity.org SWNM Green Chamber of Commerce 406 N. Bullard St. • P.O. Box 2020 Silver City, NM 88061 • 575-538-4332 scgreenchamber@gmail.com

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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 local clubs.

TOUR OF THE GILA A five-day stage race that attracts big-name cyclists from across the nation and throughout the world, 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.

Enjoy the Saturday Criterium races and the Downtown EXPO in the Historic District. The community opens its doors for the sanctioned race as it does year round for local enthusiasts.

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VISITOR INFORMATION

An exciting year-round calendar includes major events drawing regional and national crowds – a five-day stage race for cyclists, the annual blues festival and a sanctioned rodeo. Gallery openings, art walks, art-related festivals and concerts crowd the remaining gaps. Functions sponsored by car clubs, social and service clubs, health and fitness groups, church groups – the list grows long even before including the infectious excitement of university and public school sporting events.

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Visit www.SilverCity.org or www.SilverCityTourism.org for complete events schedule.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL

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MRAC Indie/Folk Series 575-538-2505 Chocolate Fantasia 575-538-2505 WNMU Theatre Events 575-538-2505 MRAC Indie/Folk Series 575-538-2505 Bird Migrations www.swnmaudubon.org May SRAM Tour of the Gila 575-538-3222 www.tourofthegila.com Hurley Pride Festival & Car Show 575-537-2124 Downtown Expo 575-534-1700 Silver City Blues Festival 575-538-2505 www.mimbresarts.org Jun Wild, Wild West Pro Rodeo 575-534-5030 Gila Classic Golf Tournament 575-538-5041 Jul Independence Day Parade & Activities 575-538-3785 www.silvercity.org Fire Cracker Golf Tournament 575-538-5041 SC Museum Ice Cream Social 575-538-5921 Big Ditch Day 575-534-1700 Hummingbird Festival 575-536-9649 Aug Silver City CLAY Festival 575-538-5560 www.clayfestival.com WNMU Bash on Broadway 575-534-1700 Signal Peak Fat Tire Fiesta 575-388-3222 Run to Copper Country Car Show 575-388-3468 Historic Fort Bayard Birthday 575-956-3294 www.fortbayard.org WNMU Festivities 575-538-6011 Sep Rolling Stones Gem and Mineral Show 575-538-3785 Pickamania! 575-538-2505 Fort Bayard Days 575-538-4477 Grant County Fair 575-538-3785 Gila River Festival 575-538-8078 Oct Red Dot Studio Tour & Gallery Walk 575 313-9631 www.silvercitygalleries.com Gila Monster Gran Fondo Bicycling Event 575-388-3222 Pinos Altos October Fiesta 575-538-5560 Mimbres Harvest Festival 575-536-9935 Las Cruces Symphony Orchestra 575-538-2505 MRAC Indie/Folk Series Presents David Francey 575-538-2505 Southwest Festival of the Written Word 575-538-5555 www.swwordfiesta.org Nov MRAC Indie/Folk Series Presents Grace and Tony 575-538-2505 Annual Lighted Christmas Parade 575-534-1700 Dec New Mexico Tamal Fiesta y Mas 575-538-1337 Victorian Frontier Christmas 575-538-5921 MRAC Black Tie Benefit Ball 575-538-2505 A Christmas Carol 575-538-2505

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Photo by LeAnne Knudsen

GRANT COUNTY, NM

FESTIVALS EVENTS

Photo by LeAnne Knudsen

CALENDAR ofEVENTS

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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.

TAMAL FIESTA Y MAS Stroll along the decorated streets, enjoy the shops and galleries, and taste some of the best tamales served in the Americas right in the heart of Historic Downtown. Experience the community’s rich and diverse heritage: Folks have been living here and enjoying tamales for hundreds of years, so you can be sure the best traditional and modern tamal recipes will be on display!

RED DOT STUDIO TOUR & GALLERY WALK "Connect the Dots" is a celebration of art connecting Silver City's RED DOT Studios and Galleries. Spend Columbus Day Weekend exploring the fabulous studios and galleries that Silver City has to offer. Connect yourself to art being created and featured in exciting new ways with demonstrations, workshops, lectures, video events and Gala Gallery Openings.

CHOCOLATE FANTASIA A unique event just prior to Valentine’s Day, Chocolate Fantasia provides a great opportunity to visit the downtown galleries and shops 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.

THE SILVER CITY CLAY FESTIVAL Get down to earth at The Silver City CLAY Festival, August 2013. Enjoy CLAY workshops, demos, lectures, tours and more. www. clayfestival.com INDEPENDENCE DAY 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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Hearty Breakfast

Saturday 7am to 10:30pm • Sunday 8am to 2pm

Healthy Lunch Monday - Saturday 11am to 2:30pm

315 N. Texas St. @ Market St. Located in the Historic Elks Lodge in Downtown Silver City, NM

575.388.5430 SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 13

QUICK FACTS ADVENTURES FOR ALL AGES

PARKS & MONUMENTS City of Rocks State Park Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument The Catwalk National Recreation Trail: 65 miles NE US180,Glenwood

rant County and the surrounding area have 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. Mountain lakes and intriguing rock formations, the cliff dwellings of an ancient culture, a well-preserved fort manned by buffalo soldiers and a breath-taking open pit mine that has produced millions of pounds of copper over the last 200 years are among the sights that only begin to scratch the surface.

The Mimbres culture left their village ruins and unique pottery art and the nomadic Apache left a few intriguing petroglyphs 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.

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GHOST TOWNS Mogollon: 75 miles NE US180 Old Hachita: 81 miles SE at NM81 & NM9 Shakespeare: 46 miles SE NM90 Steins: 63 miles SE NM90/I-10

LAKES & OUTDOORS

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FOOTPRINTS IN TIME 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 LeAnne Knudsen

Nearby Lakes: 9 Bill Evans Lake, Lake Roberts, Ben Lilly, Elephant Butte, Quemado Lake, Caballo Lake, Bear Canyon Reservoir, Snow Lake U.S. Forest Service & Park Campgrounds: 25 Juniper, Pinon, El Caso, Armijo Spring, Valle Tio Vences & Public Corrals, Head of the Ditch, Pueblo Park, Cottonwood, Whitewater Picnic Area and Catwalk National Recreation Trail, Bighorn, Bursum, Ben Lilly, Willow Creek, Gilita, Dripping Vat, Scorpion, Upper Black Canyon, Lower Black Canyon, Rocky Canyon, Mesa, Upper End, Sapillo Group Area, McMillan, Cherry Creek, Iron Creek, Kingston FEDERAL & STATE DESIGNATIONS: Aldo Leopold Wilderness: 202,016 acres Gila Nat’l. Forest: 3.3 million acres Gila Wilderness Area: 557,873 acres Continental Divide Trail: 210 miles in Gila National Forest. Good segments for Dayhikes include Sapillo Group Campground from NM Hwy. 35 south to Forest Development Road 154 at Signal Peak. Twin Sisters Segment from FDR 154 south to NM Hwy. 15 at the Arrastra Interpretive Site.

Rocky Point Segment from State Road 150 to Aspen Mountain, and Bear Mountain Segment from Bear Mountain Road to Forest Development Road 506 at the end of Little Walnut.

Outer Loop: A 235 mile route known as the Outer Loop from Silver City through Glenwood, Reserve and Beaverhead to a junction with the Inner Loop near the village of Mimbres. You may enjoy the tall timber around Reserve or Willow Creek, the famous Catwalk National Recreation Trail in Whitewater Canyon near Glenwood, the historic Fort Bayard area, or the fabled gold mining ghost town of Mogollon. Trail of the Mountain Spirits Nar’l. Scenic Byway: A110-mile Inner Loop Scenic Byway; from Silver City to Mimbres Valley, down Sapillo Creek, across the Pinos Altos Mountains and back to Silver City, with a side trip to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.

Glenwood Fish Hatchery: Open year round, seven days a week, 8am-5pm. Allows fishing at the pond with valid NM Fishing License. Kids under 12 fish free and the limit per person is 5. Type of fish available at the hatchery is rainbow trout.

OUTDOOR OPTIONS: Fishing: (8 species) rainbow, brown and brook trout, catfish, crappie, largemouth bass and tiger muskie.

Big Game Hunting: elk, deer, antelope, bighorn & Barbary sheep, bear and cougar.

Birdwatching: Approximately 339 bird species have been sighted. Of these, 166 species are known to breed on the forest, 114 are more-orless regular non-breeders, and 57 are considered to be casual or accidental.

TREASURES OF THE SOUTHERN ROCKIES 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.

CITY OF ROCKS STATE PARK A collection of huge boulders scattered across a knoll provides hideand-seek trails and rock-climbing 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.

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.

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 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.

Silver City KOA Large RV Sites Deluxe Cabins Tenting, Pool K9 Pet Park Free WiFi & Cable TV 575-388-3351

Reservations: 1-800-562-7623 Make on line real-time reservations directly with us at www.silvercitykoa.com www.campsilvercity.com 11824 Hwy 180 E. Silver City, NM 88022 Located East of Silver City on Hwy 180 between mile marker 118 & 119.

Celebrating 40 years of serving our campers!

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 15

QUICK FACTS GUIDES & OUTFITTERS Wilderness Guides: 9, Jeep Trips: 1 MOUNTAIN BIKING: All within 4 mile radius. Beginners Trails: Old CCC Trail, Outer Loop, C.D. Trail (North to Pinos Altos, South to Bear Mountain), Juniper Loop, Ponderosa Loop and Inner Loop.

Advanced Trails: Mountain Loop, Dragon Trail, Pinon Loop, Corkscrew Loop, Angel Loop and Gomez Trail.

OUTDOOR GEAR Hunting/Gunsmiths: 2, Biking: 2, Archery: 1

LICENSES Fishing (annual): $25.00, $56.00 non-resident Hunting: Non-Resident Elk $490, Mule Deer $270, Antelope $285, Bear $260, Turkey $100.

Residents of New Mexico: Elk and Antelope. You must be drawn and up to 4 names per application. Mule Deer $39, Bear $47, Turkey $28, Quail and Dove $20.

Adults: A valid Drivers License required.

Children from the age of 9 to 17: Hunters Safety Course card required. Offered throughout the year, only $5 per person, one week or a two day (weekend) intensive training available. Social Security card required.

PET FRIENDLY City Limit: 3 animals before a Kennel License is required. County Limit: Up to 10 dogs before a Kennel License is required.

License Fees: City: Intact animal M/F dog $10 Spayed/Neutered dog $2.50 Cats $1.00 County: Intact animal M/F dog $20 Spayed/Neutered dog $2.50 Cats N/A Leash Laws: When a dog is off of its premises, it must be on leash no more than eight feet long and shall not run at large in populated areas of Grant County, or create a nuisance on another’s property, including entering onto lawns, driveways, walkways.

In rural, sparsely populated areas of Grant County, dogs may be off leash; however, these dogs must be trained by a responsible person to respond to commands.

Vaccination Clinics: 2nd Sat. of each month from 9am-12 noon at Grant County Humane Society Humane Society: Volunteers welcomed to help at the shelter with walking the dogs to general care of the animals anytime between 8:30 am–5:30 pm Tues.-Fri. with the exception of Wed. and Fri. mornings or on Sat. from 8:30am-5 pm. Services offered: Vaccinations, Spay/Neuter and adoptions.

SNAP: Spay / Neuter Awareness Program is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization supported by generous donations and a few grants to help low income Grant County residents spay /neuter their pets for a small co-pay.

Pet Boarding: 6, Pet Sitters: 4 Pet Supplies & Food: 4, Pet Grooming: 4 Veterinarians: 4, Kennel Club: 1

VISITOR INFORMATION Murray Ryan Visitor Center 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 M-S 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm MST 575-538-5555 • www.SilverCityTourism.org Silver City Grant Co. Chamber of Commerce 3130 Hwy. 180 E. - Suite C • P.O. Box 1028 Silver City, NM 88062-1028 • 575-538-3785 800-538-9378 • www.SilverCity.org SWNM Green Chamber of Commerce 406 N. Bullard St. • P.O. Box 2020 Silver City, NM 88061 • 575-538-4332 scgreenchamber@gmail.com

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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.

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.

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 125 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.

TRAILS AND A BIT OF HISTORY BIG DITCH PARK below: 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 the 1890s and early 1900s gouged out a crevice 55 feet below the original street level.

O.S. WARREN HOUSE below: 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.

BILLY THE KID CABIN from top: 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.

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.

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 Gila Conservation Education Center.

FORT BAYARDA 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.

DIVERSE ATTRACTIONS 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.

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-foot deep canyon. Picnic grounds and the catwalk itself are undergoing changes in 2013.

Contact the Glenwood Ranger District – 575.539.2481 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.

SHAKESPEARE GHOST TOWN The Shakespeare National Historic Site by Lordsburg began construction in 1856, serving stagecoaches, Civil War troops, mining booms and a lot of unsavory characters. Hidalgo County also hosts unique birding opportunities, native culture experiences, galleries and nationally recognized museum collections of World War II POW memorabilia and even reptiles.

• Best Rate • Long Term Rates • Free WiFi • Pet Friendly • Micro-Fridge • Guest Laundry • Free Continental Breakfast • Cable TV with HBO-ESPN

(575) 538-3711 3420 HIGHWAY 180 E.

Photo by Bob Bryant

Photo by LeAnne Knudsen

SILVER CITY, NM 88061 FAX (575) 538-0696 www.rodewayinnsilvercity.com

RECREATION

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, 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.

Fabulous getaway nestled in the tall pines of Pinos Altos.

• • • • • • • • •

Crackling Fireplaces Secluded Balconies Relaxing Porches Telephone Satellite TV Barbeque Grill Hot Tub in Cabana Meeting Room Cabins with kitchens are available.

Conveniently located just 7 miles north of Silver City on NM Hwy. 15.

575.388.4501 888.388.4515 Make reservations & view availability online

www.BearCreekCabins.com 88 Main Street • Pinos Altos, NM 88053

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 17

SILVER CITY RATINGS

One of 20 Dream Towns...

The New Best Places to Live & Play —Outside Magazine One of the 50 Healthiest Places to Live & Retire —Norman Ford One of the 50 Most Alive Places to Live —Modern Maturity One of the Hundred Best Small Towns in America —Norman Crampton One of the Best Small Towns in America —Modern Maturity One of the Top 11 Retirement Spots —Kiplinger Report Making Your Move to One of America’s Best Small Towns —Norman Crampton One of the Nation’s “Dozen Distinctive Destinations” —National Trust for Historic Preservation Outstanding Community —Searchers One of the 8 Great Towns for Art & Music Lovers —Where to Retire One of the 100 Best Small Art Towns in America —John Villani One of the Best SMALL TOWNS in America —Norman Crampton One of the Best American Cities You’ve Never Heard of —Cowboys and Indians Best Mining Town —True West Magazine

GRANT COUNTY DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE POPULATION 2012 City: 10,315 2012 County: 29,514 2011 Median Age: 44.9 2011 Median Household Income: $37,675 Median Household Income Growth: 2000-2011 29% Percentage of 2011 Population Ages 25-44: 19.5% 2011 High School Graduation Rate: 75% County Size: 4,356 sq. miles

GRANT COUNTY ECONOMIC PROFILE 2011 Labor Force: 11,638 November 2012 Unemployment Rate: 6.4% 2001-2011 Job Growth: -0.6% 2001-2011 Business Growth: 18.9% 2011 Average Annual Wage: $32,918 Largest Non-Farm Industry: Education & Healthcare Largest Employer: Freeport-McMoran

TOP EMPLOYERS Freeport-McMoRan: 1,400 Western NM University: 722 Gila Regional Medical Center: 700 Silver Consolidated Schools: 418 Wal-Mart Super Center: 334 James Hamilton Construction: 294 Cobre Consolidated Schools: 219 Town of Silver City: 157 U.S. Forest Service: 115 Grant County’s top five employers account for 3,459 jobs – 40% of the county’s total employment base and only span three industries: mining, public education and healthcare.

WORKERS BY INDUSTRY Education & Healthcare: 2,873 Retail Trade: 1,108 Arts, Accommodation & Food Services: 996 Natural Resources & Mining: 654 Public Administration: 578 Construction: 485 Management & Professional: 276 Finance & Insurance: 249 Manufacturing: 208 Wholesale Trade: 152 Transportation & Warehousing: 119 Information: 112 Utilities: 100

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HERITAGE A RICH CULTURAL SETTING The community-minded spirit, the driving force of the Silver City Grant County region, is the result of a diverse cultural experience, a thousand years in the making. The original prehistoric inhabitants, migratory Native American bands and early European and Mexican settlers helped create today’s rich environment. Large-scale mining and agriculture development provided the foundation for its momentum.

Mimbres 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 Tularosa 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.

Hispanic Culture 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.

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

Photo by LeAnne Knudsen

QUICK FACTS

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.

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-on-white geometric designs and unique figures preserved on centuries-old pottery have strongly influenced Southwest artwork. The recent addition of the world-class NAN Ranch Collection established Western New Mexico University Museum as a recognized center for prehistoric culture research.

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 National Monument Visitor Center.

“NOT JUST A PLACE...BUT A DESTINATION” One of the Largest Mimbres Pottery Exhibits Gem & Mineral Ranch & Farm • Doll Room Military Room • China & Glassware Main Street • Gift Shop

575-546-2382 • 301 S. SILVER AVE. • DEMING, NM W W W. L U N A C O U N T Y H I S T O R I C A L S O C I E T Y. C O M SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 19

QUICK FACTS HISTORIC SITES SILVER CITY HISTORIC BUSINESS DISTRICT H. B. Ailman House built in 1881 presently houses the Silver City Museum.

Bell Block constructed in 1897 and 1906 originally housed a saloon where straight drinks were sold for 12.5 cents Meredith and Ailman Bank built in 1882, renamed the Palace Hotel in 1900.

Silver City National Bank built in 1923, presently used as the City Hall.

O.S. Warren house built in 1885 is the only building on Main Street to survive the floods at the turn of the century.

Mrs. O.S. Warren Building built in 1900 was the former Colby’s.

El Sol Theatre building built in 1934 to show Spanish-language films.

W. H. White house built in 1901 was built of brick in the Hipped Box style for one of Silver City’s first dentists.

Dr. W. H. White dental office built in 1887.

Isaac N. Cohen house built in 1882 has the only remaining example of double-hung pocket shutters.

Big Ditch Park was Silver City’s Main Street before the floods at the turn of the century transformed it into an arroyo.

Bennett Block on W. Yankie built in 1882 of adobe construction with brick facades.

Max Schutz sample room on N. Texas built to provide a meeting room for traveling salesmen.

Goodell’s Feed Store on Yankie built in 1905 and 1911 remained a farmer’s supply outlet until the late 1970s.

Victorian Homes. This architectural era spans the period of roughly 1825-1900.

There are 31 homes still existing in the Silver City area.

Walking Tours (3). Offered by the Silver City Museum: Business District, Gospel Hill and La Capilla.

Billy the Kid Cabin. Located near the origin of his real home, this 1800’s style cabin was donated by Ron Howard’s movie The Missing.

La Capilla Chapel Replica. The chapel was a local landmark and served as a gathering place for the residents of a neighborhood built on a hill on the south side of Silver City.

PINOS ALTOS Fort Cobre Replica. A 3/4 scale replica of the Santa Rita Del Cobre Fort (circa 1804) which originally was located at the Santa Rita open pit copper mine site east of Silver City.

Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House. (circa 1860’s) This fine restaurant and saloon is authentically decorated with 1800’s memorabilia and photographs.

Hearst Church. (circa 1898) built by the Hearst newspaper family and serves as the current home to the Grant County Art Guild. The gold used in decorating the Hearst Castle in California came from the Hearst Mine in Pinos Altos.

FORT BAYARD Buffalo Soldiers: In 1866 Congress authorized the organization of four black regiments to help with the “pacification” of the West.

The Indians christened these men with their short curly hair, the Buffalo Soldiers, a name which the Tenth Calvary proudly bore on its military crest.

Fort Bayard National Historic Landmark/ National Cemetery. Established as a territorial post dating back to 1863, the fort has served as a military center of operations, army and VA hospital and continues today as a State Medical Center. The first cemetery burial was in 1866.

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COMMERCE & PRESERVATION It was indeed a bold breed of individuals that was first attracted to the rugged, complex terrain of Grant County. Visionaries accustomed to difficult challenges and treacherous work became the founders of a diverse community.

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, fullscale 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 has produced copper for over 200 years, with over a hundred years as an open pit operation. Mining has been 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.

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, a renowned big game hunter and accomplished houndsman, from 1911 to 1936. He is buried in Memory Lane Cemetery.

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. 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, 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.

Celebrating 115 Years

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RV Park

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www.manzanosrvpark.com

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 21

QUICK FACTS FNANCIAL INSTITUTIONS BANKS

Regionally Owned: AmBank, 1st New Mexico Bank, Western Bank National: Wells Fargo, Bank of America First Savings Bank Mortgage Companies: 7 Financial Planning: Edward Jones 2, Raymond James Financial Services Credit Unions: 2, Loan Companies: 8

HOUSING FACTS

MEDIAN SALE PRICE Inside Silver City $120,000 Outside Silver City $240,000 Mimbres Valley $138,500 Burro Mountains $242,500

REAL ESTATE COMPANIES

Action Realty LLC 535-2286 (Cliff) Century 21 Thompson Realty 538-0021 Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realty 538-2931 Garland Real Estate SC, LLC 388-1788 Grant County Realty 388-2595 Prudential Silver City Properties 538-0404 Real Living Hacienda Realty 388-1921 Re/Max Silver Advantage 538-3847 Smith Real Estate Inc. 534-0441 Smith RE Mimbres Branch 536-3870 Stinar Realty 574-5451 United Country Mimbres Realty 538-3789 Wagon Wheel Realty Inc. 388-2692 Western Realty 538-3000

COMMUNITY SERVICES

TRANSPORTATION Interstate 10: 44 mi. So. of Silver City Interstate 25: 75 mi. East of Silver City US 180, State Roads 90, 52, 15 Air, Commercial: Great Lakes Airlines service to Phoenix.

Air, Charter: Whiskey Creek Airport City Transit: Corre Caminos Transit Shuttle Service: 2 To Deming, Las Cruces and El Paso Airport. Las Cruces Shuttle & Silver Stage Lines COMMUNICATION Telephone: CenturyLink, WNM Communications Cellular: Verizon, Sprint, AT&T Internet Access Providers: AZNEX, Comcast, Cyber Mesa, CenturyLink, Dish Exede, HughesNet, Satellite Kings, Satellite Solutions, WildBlue, WNM Communications Television: Community Access Television (CATS), Dish Network, DirectTV, Comcast, CenturyLink NEWSPAPERS Silver City Daily Press Daily Silver City Sun News Daily Desert Exposure Monthly MAGAZINES Silver City Life Bi-annual The Source Bi-annual Old West Traveler Annual Scenic Tours Annual New Mexico Traveler Annual RADIO STATIONS: Top 40: KSCQ 92.9 FM, KNUW 95.1 FM Country: KNFT 950 AM, KNFT 102.9 FM

VISITOR INFORMATION Murray Ryan Visitor Center 201 N. Hudson St. • Silver City, NM 88061 M-S 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-2pm MST 575-538-5555 • www.SilverCityTourism.org Silver City Grant Co.Chamber of Commerce 3130 Hwy. 180 E. - Suite C • P.O. Box 1028 Silver City, NM 88062-1028 • 575-538-3785 800-538-9378 • www.SilverCity.org SWNM Green Chamber of Commerce 406 N. Bullard St. • P.O. Box 2020 Silver City, NM 88061 • 575-538-4332 scgreenchamber@gmail.com

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GRANT COUNTY

COMMUNITIES GREAT QUALITY OF LIFE Silver City and Grant County are recognized as the Best in numerous 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 array 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. Curbside recycling in-town and the 360 days of sunshine has fostered more solar and renewable designs, making Silver City a mecca for sustainable living.

Bargains are plentiful on existing homes, developed properties and raw acreage. Many of the major and small independent realty companies are available throughout the county.

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.

Cissy McAndrew

Georgia Bearup

EcoBroker ® & GREEN Realtor ® 575-538-1337 CissyMcAndrew@gmail.com www.SilverCityTour.com

Qualifying Broker/Owner 575-388-8556 GeorgiaBearup17@msn.com www.MimbresRealty.com

Lucy Tully

Rodger Koest

Associate Broker, REALTOR® 575-654-5546 LucyTully.Realtor@gmail.com www.MimbresRealty.com

Associate Broker, REALTOR®, Property Manager 575-313-3208 Rodger@silvercityrentals.com www.MoveToSilverCity.com

No One Knows The Country Like We Do! ®

Pat Bearup Qualified Broker, REALTOR® 575-534-5030 Pat.Bearup@hotmail.com www.MimbresRealty.com

575-538-3789

Property Management

Open Weekends!

575-313-3208 SilverCityRentals.com

Monday-Friday 9 to 5 • Saturday-Sunday 10 to 4 •

800-827-9198 • www.MimbresRealty.com

Office in Historic Downtown Silver City • 414 N. Bullard St., Silver City, NM 88061

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.

Looking for a rental? www.SilverCityRentals.com

View available rentals, download a printable long term and vacation rental list, and download a rental application.

Rodger Koest,

Property Manager, Associate Broker, REALTOR®

575.313.3208 • 575.534.4616 Rodger@SilverCityRentals.com

Property Management Division 414 N.Bullard St. • Silver City, NM 88061

...the building block used to create a comfortable, time-tested, beautiful, southwestern home or patio. Cool in summer, warm in winter, rounded walls naturally embrace your life like no other building material.

Adobe is the perfect passive solar partner.

Stop by our new showroom at

258 Old Arenas Valley Road, Arenas Valley, NM

(just south of Silver City on Hwy. 180 East).

Or call to arrange a visit to our production yard in Mule Creek.

547 Highway 78, Mule Creek, NM

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 23

Unless otherwise indicated, prices shown are the low and high prices for properties sold based on the most recently available data for the respective areas. Some data may be more than one year old. Numbers in brackets indicate the number of sales reported for each area in the most recent one-year period at press time.

■ ◆ ●

Birding

Catwalk/Mogollon Trip

Hiking

Cliff Dwellings Trip Lower Mimbres Trip

Fishing Point of Interest

4

Sight-seeing Destinations

Miles accumulated City to City.

4

Miles accumulated City to junction, junction to junction.

City or Town

Mimbres Culture Heritage Site

Offered by United Country Mimbres Realty, Inc.

HISTORIC DISTRICT Downtown Area Elegant older homes, some Victorian style.

Close to galleries, shops and restaurants.

Homesites: N/A Res: $112-$350k [6]

Gila Regional Medical Center

Grant County Airport

Offered by Prudential Silver Ciy Properties

UNIVERSITY DISTRICT University Area Well-built older homes surrounding WNMU, often of brick or adobe with mature yards.

Homesites: N/A Res: $62-$300k [11]

Offered by Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realtly Offered by Prudential Silver City Properties

INDIAN HILLS COTTAGE SAN North Northwest A large subdivision Older homes near St. located in the juniper Mary’s Academy, newer and oak-covered hills on custom-built homes the north side. above Bear Mountain Homesites: $24-53k [2] Lodge.

Residences: $173Homesites: $24-62k [3] $325k. [13] Res: $41.3-310k [9] PINON PARK BRANDING IRON North Northwest Foothills Homes designed espeGreat wooded views. 1/2 cially for seniors living acre lots. All City utilities. independently. Close to Paved roads and protec- medical facilities. tive covenants.

55+ flex lease. Rent Homesites: N/A $900-$1200/mo.

Residences: $330k [1] Homesites: N/A Res: $162-195k [2]

SKYVIEW ESTATES North Moderately-priced newer homes in the vicinity of hospital and schools.

Homesites: N/A[0] Residences: $170-175k

DOS GRIEGOS Northern Mountains Custom-built homes on wooded lots with views overlooking Silver City.

Homesites: $91.4 [2] Res: $307-450k[2]

Offered by United Country Mimbres Realty, Inc.

SILVER HEIGHTS LA GILA ENCANTADA North Northwest Foothills An earlier subdivision Spacious homes with just north of the schools. spectacular Mountain Moderate and higher Views off Little Walnut Rd. priced homes.

Homesites: N/A [0] Homesites: N/A Res: $235-320k [3] Residences: $55-$190k

SANCTUARY ROAD Northern Mountains Custom designed homes on forested lots. Some with vistas, others secluded.

Homesites: $70k [1] Residences: $160 [1]

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Offered by United Country Mimbres Realty

Offered by Real LIving Hacienda Realty

ARENAS VALLEY East, Highway 180 Older and custom-built homes in grasslands bordering an elk preserve to the north.

Homesites: N/A [0] Res: $78-$277 [8]

BAYARD East, Mining District Moderately-priced homes in a progressive community with its own school district.

Homesites: $9-12k [2] Res: $8.5-$150k [12]

Offered by XYZ Ranch Estates

Offered by United Country Mimbres Realty, Inc.

Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

Offered by United Country Mimbres Realty, Inc.

Offered by Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realty

Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

PINOS ALTOS Northern Mountains Homes scattered through the ponderosa forest surrounding a quaint historic village.

Homesites: $50k Residences: N/A [0]

Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

SUNRISE ESTATES East Moderately-priced homes in lightly wooded rolling foothills.

Homesites: $35k [0] Residences: $210k [0] CANYON COUNTRY ESTATES East 10-acre lots just minutes from town.

Wells, electric and phone on property.

Homesites: $60k [0] Residence: N/A [0]

XYZ RANCH ESTATES Northeast 5-acre lots, 3 miles from Silver City. Rolling hills, wooded lots, site built homes or new manufactured housing-subject to covenants.

Homesites: $75k [1] Residences: $440 [1] SANTA CLARA East, Mining District Homes and building sites in Manhattan Park and on Old Race Track Road.

Homesites: $30-113 [7] Res: $20-$118k [6]

HURLEY East, Mining District Originally a company town; new development in progress. Near Grant County Airport.

Homesites: N/A [0] Residences: $12-$82k

Offered by Prudential Silver City Properties

CLIFF, GILA Northwest Homes and sites along the Gila River and Turkey Creek. Schools and a county fair.

Homesites: $15-47k [2] Res: $95-144k [4] Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

LAKE ROBERTS Northeast Homes and forested sites below the lake and broad, open vistas above.

Homesites: N/A [0] Res: $82-103k [2]

BUCKHORN Northwest Rolling grasslands, cottonwood trees and views of the Mogollon Mountains.

Homesites: $31.5k [1] Residences: $184k [1] MOGOLLON VISTA Northwest A development near Cliff. Views of the Mogollon mountain range.

Homesites: $40k [0] Residences: N/A [0]

Top Selling #1 Office in Silver City/Grant County for 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 Exceptional Service available at 2 Locations to meet your Real Estate needs.

Patrick Conlin, Broker/Owner 120 E. 11th St. • Silver City, NM 88061 2991 Hwy. 35 • Mimbres, NM 88049 Office Toll Free

575-538-0404 866-538-0404

REPRESENTING

Dos Griegos Subdivision

info@prudentialsilvercity.com www.prudentialsilvercity.com

SUBDIVISION

Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realty "Call the Enchantment Team for all your Real Estate Needs." email: contactus@silvercity-realestate.com

SAN LORENZO Northeast A rustic village with a historic mission church in the Mimbres Valley farming region.

Homesites: $50k [1] Residences: $300k [1]

OAKWOOD ESTATES West Affordable housing in a grassland development five minutes from downtown.

Homesites: N/A [0] Residences: $79k [1]

Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

WIND CANYON ESTATES West A spacious development with wooded areas.

Westward views of the Burro Mountains.

Homesites: $48 [1] Residences: $649k [1]

1-800-456-3132

Offered by Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realty

SILVER ACRES South Higher-end homes near the country club and golf course, affordable housing along the ridges.

Homesites: $3.5-47k [2] Res: $40-385k [6]

501 Silver Heights Blvd. • Silver City, NM 88061 SEPTIC SYSTEM INSPECTIONS

Our professional technicians have been serving Silver City, Grant and Hidalgo Counties for 40+ years.

Offered by Re/Max Silver Advantage

MIMBRES VALLEY Northeast Homes, building sites and an airstrip. Farming valley becomes forested near the Continental Divide.

Homesites: $8-$74k [7] Res: $45-328.2k [15]

www.silvercity-realestate.com

575-538-2931

Offered by Smith Real Estate

in the Mimbres Valley

575-574-8798

- Nationally Certified

SEPTIC SYSTEM PUMPING - State Qualified

EXCAVATIONS - UNCOVER SEPTIC SYSTEMS

Offered by Coldwell Banker Enchantment Realty

TYRONE South Affordable housing, picturesque townsite with parks.

Homesites: $75-240 [2] Res: $50-$140k [11] OAK COUNTRY South 10-acre lots, 7 miles from Silver City. Rolling hills, many oak trees.

Homesites: N/A [0] Residences: N/A [0] WHITE SIGNAL Southwest Homesites: $48 [1] Residences: $300k [1] BURRO MOUNTAINS Southwest Homes and sites also located in bear grass and lightly wooded foothills of the Burro Mountains.

Homesites: $30-65k [2] Homes: $44-525k [3] Silver City, New Mexico ©2014. Stats provided by the Silver City Regional Multiple Listing Service. www.silvercityrealtors.org

PORTABLE RESTROOMS AND HAND-WASH STATIONS

Locally owned, licensed, insured, and certified by the National Association of Wastewater Transporters, Inc.

- ADA-Compliant

575-538-2152 • 1-888-538-2152 www.HEI-Humphreys.com • Fax: 575-534-4976 4007 HWY 90 SOUTH • SILVER CITY, NM 88061

Helene Holguin Associate Broker, REALTOR®

cell

(575) 313-6799

office

(575) 519-1856

212 East 12th Street • Silver City, NM 88061

email hholguin4@gmail.com

find me on

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 25

QUICK FACTS PRIMARY & SECONDARY EDUCATION PUBLIC SCHOOLS ELEMENTARY Cliff K-6, 117 Students G.W. Stout PK-5, 398 Students Harrison Schmitt PK-5, 535 Students Jose Barrios K-5, 274 Students Sixth Street K-5, 135 Students Bayard K-6, 232 Students Hurley K-6,131 Students San Lorenzo K-6, 74 Students Central PK-6, 379 Students MIDDLE La Plata 6-8, 643 Students Cliff High 7-12, 123 Students Homebound/Hospital 7-11, 6 Students C.C. Snell 6-8, 198 Students HIGH SCHOOL Silver High 9-12, 754 Students Cobre High School 9-12, 367 Students Cliff High 7-12, 123 Students Silver City Opportunity 9-12, 84 Students Homebound/Hospital 7-11, 6 Students Aldo Leopold Charter 9-12, 92 Students PRIVATE SCHOOLS Agape Academy: K-12, 35 Students Down to Earth: K-11, 24 Students Guadalupe Montessori: PK-6, 62 Students Calvary Christian Academy: PK-11, 47 Students

HIGHER EDUCATION WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY Total Students 3200 Associate Degrees 27 Graduate Degrees10 Bachelor Degrees 41

DAY CARE Fulltime Child Care Centers 8 Specialized Programs 8 Family/Group Child Care Homes 7

AREA LIBRARIES SILVER CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY Book and Serial Volumes: 43,963 Subscriptions: 99 Video Materials: 1,536 Audio Materials: 1,805 Total Circulation: 124,300 Childrens Mat. Circulation: 26,686 Library Visits: 62,000 Childrens Program Attendance: 7,704 Turnover Rate: 2.22 Access to Electronic Services: yes Access to Internet: yes WNMU LIBRARY Book Volumes: 112,860 Magazines: 900 Microforms: 44,000 Variety of audio-visual equipment and media

SPORTS & RECREATION City Parks: 11 Bowling Alley: 1 Golf Course: 1 Ball Fields: 6 Swimming Pools: 3 Tennis Courts: 5 City Intramural Sports Program: 1 Country Club: 1 Historic Walking Tours: 3 Adult Softball Mens & Womens: 2 Leagues

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EDUCATION A FULL RANGE OF OPPORTUNITY he strength of education has always been understood by the communities of Grant County. Silver City garnered the first public school system in New Mexico and one of the state’s first institutions of higher learning. Silver City and Cliff schools, originally governed by Western New Mexico University, became an independent system in 1960. Additional school options in Silver City now 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.

T

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 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 2012 enrollment included a total of 3,584 at the University's five campuses including Silver City, Lordsburg, Truth or Consequences, Deming and Gallup. Nearly 700 students attend the university exclusively 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.

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.

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.

THE WESTERN INSTITUTE FOR LIFELONG LEARNING (WILL) offers over a hundred courses each year, including an artist lecture series and a “Lunch & Learn Program.”

THE WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY MUSEUM exhibit of Mimbres artifacts, including the recently acquired NAN Ranch collection, provides in-depth insight into an intriguing ancient culture.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 27

QUICK FACTS HEALTH CARE MEDICAL

Gila Regional Medical Center: 68 Beds, 650 Staff, 100 Physicians Optometrists: 3 Dentists: 13 Clinics: 12 Chiropractors: 7 Fort Bayard Medical Center: A licensed and certified, 200-bed, long-term Intermediate and skilled care facility. FBMC also offers chemical dependency treatment at Yucca Lodge Chemical Dependency Treatment Center.

Fort Bayard State Veterans Home: A licensed and certified, 40-bed neighborhood specific for honorably discharged veterans with 90 days or more of service and their spouses as well as Gold Star Parents, who have lost children in the service of their country.

Pharmacies: 5 Acupuncturists: 2 EMERGENCY SERVICES Ambulance, Air Ambulance, Search and Rescue MEDICAL SUPPLIERS Arroyo Medical Supply Melinda’s Medical Supply Silver City Medical Supply Silver Rexall Drug SENIOR SERVICES Assisted Living Facilities: 4 Senior Programs: 2 Case Management: 1 Nursing Homes: 2 Home Health Services: 4 Hospice Services: 2

AREA CHURCHES Anglican Episcopal: 1 Apostolic: 1 Assembly of God: 2 Independent Baptist: 2 Southern Baptist: 5 Buddhist: 1 Charismatic: 2 Christian: 2 Church of Christ: 2 Church of God: 2 Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints: 4 Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd: 1 Foursquare Gospel: 1 Ginzan-Ji Temple: 1 Jehovah’s Witnesses: 2 Lutheran: 2 Church of the Nazarene: 1 Non-Denominational: 3 Presbyterian: 1 Quaker-Religous Society of Friends: 1 Roman Catholic: 7 Seventh Day Adventist: 1 United Church of Christ: 1 United Methodist: 1

VOLUNTEER ORGANIZATIONS EF Foundation for Foreign Study Friends of the Library Gila Regional Medical Center Habitat for Humanity - Gila Region Homebound Library Program (Leamos) Silver City MainStreet Project Mimbres Region Arts Council Multiple Sclerosis Assn. of America Potential Tutor Training Session (Leamos) Silver City Museum Silver City Grant Co. Chamber of Commerce Silver City Green Chamber of Commerce Silver City Library The Volunteer Center of Grant County

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HEALTH ONE OF AMERICA’S BEST CHOICES

A

great climate for outdoor activities, low-stress lifestyles and impressive medical options are among the reasons that Norman Crampton includes Silver City and Grant County in the 50 Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in the United States. The 6000-foot elevation (7,000 in Pinos Altos) and the usually dry southwest air translate to plenty of sunshine and temperatures that are not too cold and not too hot – often touted as one of the best climates in the United States.

With over three million acres of forest in Silver City’s backyard, crisscrossed by 1500 miles of hiking trails and 310 species of birds, the opportunity for outdoor activity is a major stress beater. 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 nothing less than inspiring.

For those preferring indoor routines, there are a host of gyms; classes for exercise, dance, yoga and water aerobics; health food stores and restaurant menus; and, of course, the healthy art of shopping in the historic district.

Silver City’s attributes are also a major attraction for excellent medical professionals, both general practitioners and specialists. Cancer treatment, obstetrics and gynecology care, options for bariatric patients, delivery choices, elderly care and even the availability of trained hospice personnel exceed the opportunities usually reserved for much larger communities. Quality care for every age group in a four-county region is centrally located in Silver City. Should guidance be required, you’ll be equally impressed by the genuine concern expressed at every step along the way – a major benefit of small-town living.

GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER In 1884, a Silver City sewing club set their sights on establishing quality health care in a regional hospital. Ladies Hospital was born. From these humble roots grew today’s Grant County-owned Gila Regional Medical Center (GRMC), a 68-bed, not-for-profit, acute care hospital accredited by The Joint Commission and is Medicare certified.

GRMC provides a comprehensive range of emergency, medical, diagnostic and surgical services. As home to the Gila Regional Cancer Center and the Surgical Center, its patient-centered approach serves southwestern New Mexico and eastern Arizona. Care at GRMC includes a behavioral health unit, a preventative cardiologist, an interventional pain specialist and a fully-equipped wellness center.

Photo by Laura Howell

GILA REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER GILA REGIONAL’S COMMITMENT Gila Regional is committed to building the best rural hospital to work, receive care and practice medicine in the country. This approach is built on high quality, high service, and patient-centered care. That translates into more home-like rooms, patient access to their electronic health records, a patient liaison – everything focused on providing a more positive healing environment.

Services include: Annual Examinations Contraception Treatment or Fertility

CASSIE HEALTH CENTER FOR WOMEN COMPREHENSIVE ASSISTANCE Dealing with issues from puberty to menopause, knowledgeable and experienced caregivers respond to their patient’s concerns. The Center maintains an upbeat atmosphere for both staff and patients. “We care about our patient’s heath and our staff is accessible when medical attention is needed,” Victor Nwachuku, M.D.

Problems related to Menstruation Pre-menstrual Syndrome

Complete Obstetrics and Gynecology Care for women of all ages.

and Menopause

Victor A. Nwachuku, M.D.

Gynecare Thermachoice

Michelle A. Diaz, M.D.

Care during Pregnancy and Childbirth

Gail Stamler, C.N.M.

essure® Permanent Birth Control

1618 E. Pine St. • Silver City, NM 88061

Medicare, Medicaid and Most Insurance Accepted.

We Have a Sliding Fee Scale.

Friendly Bilingual Staff.

Accepting New Patients.

CassieHealthCenter.com 575-388-1561 • 888-388-1562 toll free

• Oxygen & Respiratory Equipment • Incontinent Supplies • Power Lift Recliners • Hospital Mattresses & Beds • Bathroom Safety Aids • Motorized Scooters 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE

Medicare, Medicaid & Private Insurance Accepted

• Koi & Ecko Scrubs for Men & Women • Diabetic Care Supplies • Orthopedic Supports • All Natural Supplements • Sanita Nursing Shoes • Mastectomy Products

Medicare accredited through The Compliance Team. Inc.

WE DELIVER

910 East 32nd Street • Silver City, New Mexico

575.534.4013 • 866.534.4013 SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 29

nursing visits medications delivered ♥ medical equipment ♥ emotional support ♥ respite ♥ 24 hour availability ♥ ADL assistance

bereavement support experience ♥ compassion ♥ medical supplies ♥ confidentiality ♥ volunteers ♥ local cultural knowledge

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Open 8am to 4pm Monday - Friday Serving Grant & Hidalgo Counties

Medicare, Medicaid, VA, private insurance & self-pay accepted

Medicare Hospice Benefits cover all services

“Taking care of you in the comfort of your own home.”

High Quality, Experienced and Compassionate Care.

575-534-1800 • Toll Free: 877-534-1801

Joint Fx: 575-388-1768 • www.horizonhospicenm.com Commission Accredited 2584 N. Silver St., Bldg. A • Silver City, NM 88061

Small Home, Millie’s Big Heart Assisted Living Community A small, family-owned and operated assisted living center serving Grant County for over 10 years. Residents are valued and loved in a healthy, nurturing and stimulating environment.

600 N. Hudson St. Extensive community involvement and Silver City, NM 88061 daily activities. Small pets welcome.

575.534.9172 • admin@milliesassistedliving.com 30 – www.ZiaPublishing.com

ELDERLY, INCAPACITATION & RECOVERY ASSISTANCE When the activities of daily living (ADLs), either for ourselves or a relative, require additional help, it is comforting to know that resources are readily available.

Certified home health care providers, assisted living and nursing home facilities and hospice groups are located within the Silver City/Grant County area. Individuals in the various entities are qualified to guide you toward the best program for your needs and through available financial options including Medicare and Medicaid.

Area Map

HIDALGO MEDICAL SERVICE (HMS)

FORT BAYARD MEDICAL CENTER STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY The medical center and veterans home operated by the State of New Mexico moved into new buildings opposite Santa Clara offering skilled nursing and long-term care for its residents. “Recent physical and management changes have balanced compassion and competency in an environment that has allowed us to achieve excellence,” Adrian Duran.

Silver City Map HORIZON HOSPICE Photo by LeAnne Knudsen

END-OF-LIFE ASSISTANCE A local family-owned hospice provider, Horizon fills the needs of terminal individuals living at home, in assisted-living facilities and nursing homes. “Our focus is improving quality of life while facilitating a comfortable, peaceful and dignified death in surroundings chosen by the client,” Wanda Hall.

OPPORTUNITIES AND SERVICES FOR SENIORS In additional to the excellent medical and assistance 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 of the local lifestyle and extremely important for art and performance openings and celebrations, operation of the hospital, museum and visitor center and programs for needy individuals, to mention only a few.

Maps courtesy Jackie Blurton

Photos by Adrian Duran

COMPREHENSIVE ASSISTANCE The non-profit health care and community development organization provides preventive, medical and dental primary care services, as well as inpatient options including deliveries. Family support is a critical part of the HMS program. Clinics are located throughout southwest New Mexico, including a new state-of-theart facility in downtown Silver City.

SILVER CITY GRANT COUNTY VISITOR & RELOCATION GUIDE – 31

Manufactured Home Subdivision

5 Acre Lots with Roads and Power

Highway 180 East off XYZ Ranch Road • Silver City, New Mexico • 575-388-1951