T R A I L S
Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum Playwright Mark Medoff Register for the $2000 Vacation Getaway... details on page 9
Gila Cliff Dwellings Ghost Towns
THE COMMUNITIES OF SILVER CITY, DEMING, LAS CRUCES, TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, SOCORRO, LORDSBURG, RESERVE
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum
Three thousand years of agricultural history are highlighted at New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum in Las Cruces.The bronze sculpture at the museum entrance titled "Sabe las Reatas – He Knows the Ropes", featured on the cover of Old West Trails, was sculpted by Bill Curry. The piece was donated to the museum by Phillip and Yetta Bidegain.
Old West T R A I L S
Published exclusively for Old West Country as a supplement to New Mexico Traveler
Old West Country P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062 1-800-290-8330 Website: www.oldwestcountry.com E-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com
Contents table of
President Rebecca Richens Lordsburg Chamber of Commerce
Executive Director Keith LeMay
Las Cruces 2 22 Silver City History, culture, technology, world-class entertainment and a beautiful valley invite both talent and industry to New Mexico’s second largest city.
Serving the communities of:
Fine and performing arts and history set against a backdrop of sprawling wilderness forests make Silver City one of the nation’s best small towns.
e-mail: cvb@lascruces.org www.lascrucescvb.org
Celebrity Profile 6 32 Pinos Altos &Glenwood Academy Award Playwright Nominee Mark Medoff continues to write, direct and act in southern New Mexico.
La Mesilla 12 The 1850’s regional headquarters for the Butterfield Stage maintains its charm as a shopping and dining destination.
Deming 18 Rockhound Roundup and the Great American Duck Race draw visitors to a land of clean water and ancient pottery.
Lordsburg 20 Authentic ghost towns keep American history alive in southwest New Mexico.
Published by: Zia Publishing Corp. 400 N. Arizona Street Silver City, NM 88061 505-388-3966 Fax: 505-388-8784 133 W. Booth Street Santa Fe, NM 87501 505-471-0110 Fax: 505-471-0777
President Joseph Burgess Managing Director Terri Menges Creative Director Todd Yocham Staff Accountant Arlyn Cooley Senior Designer Jeannette Alvo
Lordsburg 117 East 2nd Street. • Lordsburg, NM 88045 505-542-9864
Mountain villages that are full of surprises, excitement and scenic grandure.
www.gilanet.com/lordsburgcoc lordsburgcoc@gilanet.com
34 The Gila Ancient Indian Dwellings deep in the heart of the America’s first designated wilderness area.
36 Socorro Migrating birds on the Rio Grande and space age radiotelescopes of the Very Large Array keep man’s imagination in tune with Mother Nature... and beyond.
38 Truth or Consequences Hot mineral baths were frequented by Apache warrior Geronimo until the white man finally realized the value of the waters.
Designers Joseph Fischer Pamela Huerta Paul Ortega Photography Joseph Burgess Production Coordinator Cassandra Colley Art Intern Tanicia Ortega
Contributing Writers Joseph Burgess Erin Griffith S. Derrickson Moore Copy Editors Jim Madsen North Johnson Advertising Sales Judith Leyba Toni Wetzel
Deming 800 East Pine • Deming, NM 88031 1-800-848-4955 www.demingchamber.com chamber@zianet.com Las Cruces 211 N. Water Street • Las Cruces, NM 88001 1-800-FIESTAS • 505-541-2444
Glenwood PO Box 183 • Glenwood, NM 88039 505-539-2711 www.gilanet.com/glenwood.coc glenwoodcoc@gilanet.com Reserve P.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830 www.gilanet/reservecc reservecc@gilanet.com Silver City 201 N. Hudson Street Silver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378 www.silvercity.org scgcchamber@cybermesa.com
Socorro 101 Plaza, P. O. Box 743 Socorro, NM 87801 505-835-0424 www.socorro-nm.com chamber@socorro-nm.com
Truth or Consequences PO Box 31 Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 1-800-831-9487
http://village.globaldrum.com/sierra_newmexico/
Mountain Spirit Manager Richard Noyes Distribution Keith LeMay E-Mail: ziapublish@aol.com Websites: www.nmtraveler.com www.mtspirit.com
www.silvercity.cc www.ziadesign.com Old West Trails is a supplement to New Mexico Traveler and is manufactured and printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is prohibited. All submissions of editorial or photography are only accepted without risk to the publisher for loss or damage.
Old West Country Old West Country keeps the spirit of the 1800’s alive in southwestern New Mexico. Ghost towns and forts, historic plazas, ancient ruins, gunfightin' saloons and Apache strongholds are the scenes where it all began. Imagine yourself in a covered wagon or a gold rush setting, searching for fame, fortune and. . . love? Those were the days of diamond swindles, Confederate battles, outlaws bustin' out of jails, and romantic escapades. A hundred and fifty years later, life has eased up a bit, with the arrival of the railroad and the automobile. In fact, the favorite pastime has become eavesdropping on other planets and galaxies, with the space age "ears" of the Very Large Array. The state's largest recreational lakes, bird sanctuaries, and some of its best mountain streams and trails have offered a quality of life that was only in the dreams of early settlers. Come to Old West Country prepared to exit the freeways, to find the galleries and the art of the Southwest, to locate the origin of the nation's chile revolution (or any of the Southwest's tantalizing Mexican food restaurants), and to experience the rugged terrain that protected Indians and outlaws alike. Life just doesn't get any better than "livin' it up" in Old West Country. For more information, visit our website at www.oldwestcountry.com.
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March Border Book Festival. 388-8784. April Main Street Las Cruces Festival. 523-6403. May New Mexico Wine & Chile War Festival. 646-4543. June San Juan Fiesta. 526-8171. July Annual 4th of July Electric Light Parade, Celebration, Concert & Fireworks Display. 528-3149. Sept. New Mexico Wine Harvest Festival. 1-800-343-7827 Oct. The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. 524-6832. La Viña Wine Fiesta. 1-800-343-7827. Las Cruces Air Fair. 1-800-343-7827. Nov. Annual Renaissance Crafts/Fair. 523-6403. 6th Annual Intel Mariachi Concert. 525-1735. Dec. Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe. 526-8171.
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Las Cruces is a crossroads of interstate
east side of the Organ Mountains, Mesilla
highways and railroads, a crossroads of the
Valley fiestas and processions keep alive the
historic El Camino Real and the Butterfield
customs of bygone eras.
Trails and certainly a crossroads of many
Building the world’s largest enchilada at
cultures. New Mexico’s second largest city
The Whole Enchilada Fiesta draws over
spreads out before the rugged spires of the
200,000 people to cooking contests, music,
picturesque Organ Mountains and continues
dancing and a parade. The city’s largest fiesta
to provide support for its historic roles in
is held in the Downtown Mall in October.
tourism and trade.
The cultural aspects of the community
Today in Las Cruces, the rapidly grow-
have kept pace with the population growth.
ing manufacturing, farming, processing and
The lyric opera, symphony, ballet and com-
high tech community still maintains its
munity chorus have enhanced the expanding
Spanish, Mexican and Old West flavor.
development of the arts. Both the community
While New Mexico State University and
and university theaters reproduce full playbills
local Las Cruces businesses maintain close
each season. Academy Award playwright
ties with the technologically advanced opera-
nominee Mark Medoff (Children of a Lesser
tions at White Sands Missile Range on the
God) continuously works with productions
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Old West Trails
Come for the History... Stay for the Fun! HISTORY
&
• Visit Old Mesilla - an 1800’s village where Billy the Kid was tried for murder. • Pueblo Indians drive Spaniards southward to Southern New Mexico and Paso del Norte. (1680) • Visit Ft. Selden - the former home of the Buffalo Soldiers who protected the Mesilla Valley from Indian attacks. • Don Juan de Oñate reaches New Mexico territory. (1598) • Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed. (1848) • Las Cruces has long been known for its festive moods and friendly attitudes. Let us show you our hospitality.
FUN • Visit the many gift shops, restaurants, and galleries in Old Mesilla. • Visit the N.M. Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum to learn the 3,000 year old story of agriculture in New Mexico. See the antique farm equipment. At the dairy barn, see live cow milking demonstrations. • Great weather - 350 days of sunshine! • Great scenery - the rugged spires of the Organ Mountains form the perfect backdrop for a place where the legends of the Old West blend with today’s dreams. • The Las Cruces Farmers & Crafts Market - rated one of the top 10 open air markets in the U.S.A. Locally hand-crafted merchandise & home-grown produce is sold every Wed. & Sat. morning.
NEW MEXICO
premiering at the University Theater. The Fountain Theater shows classic, foreign and art films, while area museums detail the development of the valley. The log cabin museum near the downtown mall and Ft. Selden State Monument on the Rio Grande depict living conditions for settlers and soldiers in the 1800’s, including the famed Buffalo Soldiers who were stationed at the fort. The Farm and Ranch Heritage
(Above) Our Lady of Health Church typifies centuries of Spanish and Mexican influence on Las Cruces. (Left, top) Estampa de Mejico Ballet Folklorico performs at Court Youth Center. (Left, bottom) Horse drawn wagon rides are part of the New Mexico Wine and Chile War Festival.
Convention & Visitors Bureau • 211 N. Water Street, Dept. NMT1/01 • Las Cruces, NM 88001 1-800-FIESTAS • TTY (505) 541-2142 • Fax (505) 541-2164 www.lascrucescvb.org • cvb@lascruces.org
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Museum on Dripping Springs Road depicts the history of New Mexico’s farming community for the last 3000 years. Displays, demonstrations, animals and equipment make this 47-acre interactive museum one of the state’s most exciting. New Mexico’s Spanish colonists passed through the Mesilla Valley over 400 years ago. El Camino Real was established by the Spaniards and remained the link between New Mexico’s provincial capital of Santa Fe and Mexico’s northern trade center of Chihuahua City through periods of Spanish and Mexican rule. In 1830, Apache warriors attacked a group of travelers on El Camino Real
C A R E E R OPPORTUNITIES
and in 1849, the crosses that marked their graves became the basis of the community’s name, Las Cruces. Throughout the 1800’s settlers, adventurers and entrepreneurs crossed El Camino Real, on the Butterfield Trail, enroute to Arizona and California. Mining attracted a few
TOLL FREE JOB LINE: 877-505-6289
settlers to the Las Cruces area in the
FAX: 505-388-1127
late 1800’s, but it was the arrival of
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Our selection of Native American jewelry, pottery and kachinas is one of the largest and best in Las Cruces. We carry Navajo, Zuni and Hopi jewelry; Navajo and Acoma pottery & Navajo rugs. Oñate Gift Shop is the exclusive dealer for Lawrence Vargas “Blackware” pottery in Southern New Mexico.
the railroad in 1881 that ignited the development of the Mesilla Valley. For the visitor, scenic and
All jewelry is hand selected to bring you quality jewelry at affordable prices, including hard to find one-of-a-kind pieces.
challenging hiking trails abound in the Organ Mountains and La Mesilla’s historic plaza offers excellent shopping for southwestern wares. Las Cruces is
When in Las Cruces shop where the locals shop
centrally located for day trips to Juárez, Mexico; White Sands National Monument; Elephant Butte Lake State Park; the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and the historic community of Silver City.
(Above) Ft. Selden was established on the Rio Grande in 1865 to curb Indian raids. The state monument houses numerous artifacts of the era. (Left, top) Trails in the Dripping Springs Recreation Area take hikers into the heart of the Organ Mountains.
GIFT SHOP (Inside Hilton Hotel) 705 South Telshore Blvd. Las Cruces, NM 88011 505-532-4226 Fax: 505-526-1896
LOCATION Junction of I-10 and I-25 on the Rio Grande, 44 miles North of El Paso. TOUR Travel 59 miles west from Las Cruces on I-10 to Deming. MORE INFORMATION Las Cruces Convention and Visitors’ Bureau 505-541-2444
Stop by and visit the most famous Pecan Grove and Retail Outlet in New Mexico. 22500 S. Highway 28 • La Mesilla, NM • 505-526-8974 • 1-800-654-6887
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CELEBRITY PROFILE
Mark Medoff By S. Derrickson Moore
A funny thing happened to multi-award-winning playwright Mark Medoff when he was on his way to Paris. He got a job offer in Southern New Mexico. “I came to Las Cruces by accident. When I was finishing at Stanford in ’66, I planned to go to Europe for a year and seek out Jean Paul Sartre and Simone DeBouvoir, hang with them, discuss Existentialist philosophy, drink red wine early in the day, and smoke unfiltered French cigarettes,” Medoff quipped. “My mentor at the University of Miami, Fred Shaw, had taught at New Mexico State University. He told me I wasn’t going to Europe, I was going to get a teaching job, the only thing I could do where I could make a living AND continue my apprenticeship as a writer. Next thing I knew, I was coming to Las Cruces. I got off the highway and the first thing I saw was a herd of cattle. I knew it would never work.” Today, 34 years, eleven movies, 23 stage productions and two radio plays later, the Land of Enchantment is still home for the prolific writer who earned a Tony Award, and an Academy Award nomination (for Best Screenplay) for Children of a Lesser God. In 1999, he was one of seven outstanding leaders of the American theater to be recognized by the College of Fellows of the American Theatre at the Kennedy Center. He has accomplished his multi-media feats while remaining firmly based in the Mesilla Valley where he regularly continues to write, direct and produce his own plays, and accept occasional directing gigs for everything from musicals to operas. He has also maintained his status as Las Cruces’ own movie-making triple threat: he writes them, acts in them and produces them. He has proven that you don’t have to live in Los Angeles to be in the movie business. In fact, four of his films have been made in New 2001 New Mexico Traveler
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CELEBRITY PROFILE Mexico. Three were filmed in Las Cruces: 1995’s Homage and When You Comin’ Back Red, Ryder? (which also won an OBIE award after its presentation as a play in 1973) and a documentary, Who Fly On Angels’ Wings in 2000. Another, Santa Fe, was made in the City Different in 1996. He wrote the 1988 film Clara’s Heart, which starred Whoopi Goldberg and helped launch the career of New Mexican Neil Patrick “Doogie Howser” Harris. Other projects have ranged from City of Joy, starring Patrick Swayze, to the Meg Tily-Judge Reinhold comedy Off Beat and a film for HBO, Apology. His first film was a 1979 Chuck Norris vehicle: Good Guys Wear Black. Mark and his wife, Stephanie, have three daughters, Debbie, Rachel and Jessica, and the family has been active in community cultural activities and arts programs for kids. “What has kept us here all these years is the support and appreciation the university and community have displayed for its artists. Southern New Mexico has been a wonderful place to raise our children. The schools were good, the extracurricular activities plentiful, taught by Old West Trails
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The Theater Community Playwright Mark Medoff says, “There was a marvelous theater community just aborning when I arrived in Las Cruces and I was swept into it. All around me were talented actors and designers. I became connected to and deeply affected by some of the musical talent in the area. There were the poets Keith Wilson and Joe Somoza, the short story writer, Lee Abbott, the translator, Tom Hoeksema, and me, all of us chasing our muses to some pretty good recognition. Now, the writing community has expanded and, in my opinion, is extraordinary, maybe as extraordinary as the visual artistic community in Santa Fe. We still have Wilson, Somoza, Hoeksema, and Medoff; we have Abbott by connection; we have the prolific children’s playwright Ruth Cantrell; and we have that incredible group of prose writers in the NMSU English Department: Antonia Nelson, Robert Boswell, Denise Chavez, Kevin McIlvoy, and Don Kurtz.” (Above) Academy Award nominee Mark Medoff works with a University group at New Mexico State. (Left, bottom) Playwright Mark Medoff and wife Stephanie in their Mesilla home.
2001 New Mexico Traveler
CELEBRITY PROFILE
BIOGRAPHY FILMS Who Fly on Angels’ Wings (Memorial Medical Foundation, 2000) Santa Fe (Doradel, 1997) Homage (Skyline, 1995) Rio Road (AFI, 1993) City of Joy (TriStar, 1992) Clara’s Heart (Warner Brothers, 1987) Children of a Lesser God (Paramount, 1986) Apology (HBO Premiere Films, 1986) Off Beat (Touchstone, 1986) When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder (Columbia, 1979) Good Guys Wear Black (MarVista, 1978)
terrific people, and the diversity of the population enriched us all,” Medoff said. Movie industry people sometimes josh him about his affection for the region. “I write things all the time that I set in New Mexico. I think all of us who write might say that our environment here still has a kindness to it, a welcoming to it, and a willingness to embrace diversity not only in ethos but in ideas.” He has written a novel, Dreams of Long Lasting, (Warner Books, 1992) and has also contributed articles to newspapers and several magazines. In 2001, Doña Ana Lyric Opera Company will debut his first opera, Sara McKinnon, (with composer Randall Shin). A Kennedy Center-commissioned play, Tommy J. & Sally, premiered in 2000 in Washington, D.C. He is also working on Gunfighter: A Gulf War Chronicle, and said he’s writing a play set during World War II, several screenplays, and trying to finish a second novel, a thriller set between Las Cruces and El Paso. A new play, Road to the Revolution, will premiere in Los Angeles in 2001. (Above) Marionettes look down from heaven on Mark Medoff in his Mesilla home.
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PLAY LIST Sara McKinnon (opera-DALO premiere 2001) Tommy J & Sally (premiere Washington D.C. 2000) Crunch Time (with Phil Treon, 1998) Showdown On Rio Road (with Ross Marks, 1998) A Christmas Carousel (1997) Gunfighter—A Gulf War Chronicle (1997) Gila (1996) The Homage That Follows (1995 and 1987) Stefanie Hero (1990) Stumps (1989) The Heart Outright (1986) Kringle’s Window (1985) The Hands Of Its Enemy (1984) The Majestic Kid (1981) Children of a Lesser God (1980) The Last Chance Saloon (1979) Firekeeper (1978) The Conversion of Aaron Weis (1978) The Halloween Bandit (1978) When You Comin’ Back, Red Ryder (1974) The Kramer (1973) The Odyssey of Jeremy Jack (with Carleen Johnson, 1973) The Wager (1966) RADIO PLAYS The Last Chance Saloon (1980) The Disintegration of Aaron Weiss (1979)
You have a chance to win a
WEEKEND VACATION for two!
Win 2 nights lodging and four meals for two. You’ll have tickets to visit local attractions. Enjoy the largest lake in New Mexico, hike in the ponderosa pines at 7000-9000 feet. Explore unique gift shops and art galleries. With one-fourth of New Mexico, there’s millions of acres for playing! . . . and relaxing! We’re doing a survey of people who have requested information about our Old West Country region. We’d like your help with information to provide a better vacation experience. If you would take only 4 minutes to answer the survey card, you’ll be entered for one of the Weekend Vacations in the $2000 Old West Country Vacation Getaway. Complete the information card between pages 16 and 17 in this edition of Old West Trails . . . or register on our web site, www.oldwestcountry.com. Then, you’ll be in a drawing for a Weekend Vacation for two or a classic Mimbres Indian pot reproduction. Four drawings, one every 3 months!
An arts advocacy,
non-profit organization whose mission is to promote, foster and strengthen the
general welfare, knowledge and appreciation of
performing, visual and literary arts in southern New Mexico.
COURT YOUTH CENTER In a dizzying swirl of activities, the Court Youth Center in Las Cruces has a long list of artistic, performance and educational programs that attract thousands of young people from all age groups. Performing Arts, including theatre, music and dance; Culinary Arts, in partnership with the Doña Ana Branch Community College and the Las Cruces Public Schools; the Literary Arts, including a Youth Playwrights Program; chess; tennis; and much more are among the programs.
Resident performing groups include ballet folklórico, música mariáchi and a children’s theater. The facility includes a 500-seat performance space, a dance studio, a gallery, visual arts studios and multi-purpose rooms. At the center, youth discover and cultivate their individual talents to form lifelong learning opportunities in creativity, arts enrichment, arts production and they can participate in apprenticeship and entrepreneurial programs. Director Irene Oliver Lewis states that adult groups also utilize the facility. It can accommodate business and organizational functions from classroom sized meetings to auditorium performances. Contact Ms. Lewis for more information at (505) 541-0146. (Top Left) Youth learn air brush techniques at Court Youth Center. (Top Right) Director Irene Oliver-Lewis coordinates youth center programs.
Experience Southwestern Hospitality At Its Best
DOñA ANA ARTS COUNCIL
The Best Western Mesilla Valley Inn offers travelers warm southwestern hospitality, attentive customer service, a convenient location and comfortable accommodations, all at remarkably affordable prices.
505-523-6403
• Large heated outdoor pool and spa. • Casual dining at Eddie’s Bar & Grill • Outdoor Terrace Lounge • Live nightly entertainment • Banquet & meeting facilities for up to 700 • Easy access to historic Old Mesilla
Fax: 505-523-4760 224 N. Campo Street Las Cruces, NM 88001 PO Box 1721 Las Cruces, NM 88004 e-mail: daac@zianet.com
At our hotel you’ll find:
901 Avenida de Mesilla Las Cruces, New Mexico 88005 (505) 524-8603 • Fax (505) 526-8437
For Reservations Call Toll Free 1-800-327-3314
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT10 Old West Trails
Mesilla Valley Inn & Conference Center
Where Creativity and Success Flourish Daily The Court Youth Center nurtures an environment where the voices of our youth are heard, valued and celebrated in an atmosphere where the youth create their own destinies and are partners in shaping the world of tomorrow. At the Court Youth Center, youth experience life and learning through creative and physical activities. They discover and cultivate their individual talents to create lifelong learning opportunities in creativity, arts enrichment, arts production and apprenticeship and entrepreneurial programs as well as recreational and educational activities. The Court Youth Center programs are created by youth for youth.
P.O. BOX 7027 • LAS CRUCES, NM • 88006
(505) 541-0145 • www.courtyouthcenter.org
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Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally. 523-9206.
May
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. 525-1965.
Sept. The Diez y Seis de Septiembre Fiesta. 525-1965. Oct.
Dia de los Muertos. 1-800-343-7827.
Dec.
Christmas Carols and Luminarias. 525-1965.
(Right) Modern adobe construction continues to dominate La Mesilla architecture. (Below, top) Narrow sidewalks and portals line streets near the 1800’s plaza. (Below, bottom) San Albino Church dominates the plaza of La Mesilla.
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Located just minutes from Las Cruces, La Mesilla is a center for culture, art and fashion offering a festive Spanish/Old West atmosphere. The tree-shaded plaza with a traditional
Mexican bandstand is still the focal point for community activities. The white towers of San Albino Church dominate the plaza area. La Mesilla was a firmly established colony in 1850, and it was the most important community affected by the Gadsden Purchase from Mexico in 1854. La Mesilla in 1858 became the Regional Headquarters for the Butterfield Overland Mail and Stage Line. Some of the finest hotels and restaurants, including El Meson, flourished during this period. The Confederate army established a regional headquarters in La Mesilla in 1861, but fled the following year, just ahead of the arrival of the California Column. The community served as a commercial and transportation center for the region’s mining and agricultural industries and as a vital link for the West’s transportation network. La Mesilla was a lively (and wild) social center in the 1880’s with its dances, bullfights, cockfights,
and theater productions. It also attracted its share of unsavory characters. Billy the Kid was tried and sentenced to hang in La Mesilla in 1881, but escaped before the sentence could be carried out. In that same year, the railroad moved four miles east to Las Cruces, and along with it, the county seat. From that point until recently, La Mesilla experienced little growth and thus was able to maintain its 1800’s character. Today, visitors are attracted by the quaint shops along narrow streets, the relaxing atmosphere 2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT12 Old West Trails
LA POSTA A TRULY AUTHENTIC DINING & SHOPPING EXPERIENCE. Located on the plaza in historic Old Mesilla, and not far from the intersection of Interstate 10 at the Rio Grande, is a truly authentic southern New Mexico dining and shopping experience. Established in 1857 as a Butterfield Stagecoach stop, La Posta has felt the footprints of such notables as Kit Carson, Judge Roy Bean and Billy the Kid. The chile rellenos, enchiladas, tamales, and empanadas are a melding of the Mexican-Indian dishes uniquely influenced by the New Mexican culture. Their best kept secrets, however, may be their delicious steaks and refreshing tropical drinks. The warm, friendly service and consistently excellent cuisine make it not only popular among locals, but also a memorable stop for visiting national and international dignitaries. Don’t forget to visit our La Posta Chile Shop... The Hot, Hot spot in Old Mesilla.
LA POSTA DE MESILLA
Famed for Mexican Food and Steaks Since 1939 2410 Calle De San Albino Mesilla, NM 88046
505-524-3524
around the plaza, and of course, the mouth watering aroma of roasting chile, enchiladas and thick steaks from nationally recognized restaurants. Every door opens to galleries, antique shops, bookstores, coffeehouses, dress shops and jewelry stores. The charm and serenity of La Mesilla may well transform one’s hectic, modern outlook on life to a calmer, more rational state . . . and it may linger for years to come. Traditional fiestas are held in La Mesilla the weekends just prior to México’s two independence days, Cinco de Mayo (May 5th) and Diez y Seis de Septiembre (September 16). Women dressed in colorful skirts and
C U L I N A R Y
men in the silver-studded suits of the Old West Trails OWT13 2001 New Mexico Traveler
A R T S
TOWN OF MESILLA LODGING
Boutique Resort Hotel & Gourmet Restaurant • 15 rooms & suites with private baths, some with fireplaces • Full gourmet breakfast included • Tranquil setting and magnificent views • Seasonal swimming pool • Lounge Banquet Facility • Award-winning chef, excellent continental menu and wine list
Mesón de Mesilla 1803 Avenida de Mesilla • PO Box 1212 • Mesilla, NM 88046
(505) 525 2380 • (800) 732 6025 • Fax (505) 527-4196 caballero grace the plaza as the music
www.mesondemesilla.com
of the Mariachi fill the air. Blindfolded children try to break piñatas full of candy, and vendors sell their arts and crafts. If you are in the area on December 24th, the traditional Christmas Carols and Luminarias on the Plaza are an impressive display of holiday spirit. The adobe and red brick buildings and homes of La Mesilla have been
3 Suites all with private baths and fully stocked wet bars • Sunroom • Swimming Pool & Jacuzzi in the inner courtyard • Full Breakfast prepared to order
Happy Trails Bed & Breakfast
carefully restored to provide visitors a glimpse of southwest communities of a hundred years ago. Tile work, colorful
Located in Old Mesilla Mailing Address: 1857 Paisano • Las Cruces, NM 88005 (505) 527-8471 • Sylvia Byrnes - proprietor www.las-cruces-new-mexico.com
doors, and beds of every variety of cacti imaginable enhance the architecture throughout the village. Adobe
Convention Services las cruces & la mesilla dining
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LAS CRUCES Cattle Baron 790 S. Telshor 522-7533 Farley’s Corner Foothills & Nacho Dr. 522-0466 Mesilla Valley Inn 901 Avenida de Mesilla 524-8603 New Mexico Farm & Ranch Museum (Purple Sage) 4100 Dripping Springs Rd. 532-1765
Steak Seafood
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LA MESILLA Double Eagle 308 Calle de Guadalupe 523-6700 La Posta de Mesilla 2410 Calle de San Alvino 524-3524 Mesón de Mesilla 1803 Avenida de Mesilla 525-2380 • 1-800-732-6025
New Mexican/Steak Continental
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CASUAL LUNCH, DINNER FINE DINING, SUNDAY BRUNCH LUNCH, DINNER CASUAL BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER FINE DINING
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Best Western Mesilla Valley Inn 901 Avenida de Mesilla Las Cruces, NM 88005 Convention Max. Occupancy: 70 Meeting Space: 800 sq. ft. (505) 524-8603 FAX (505) 526-8437
Las Cruces Convention & Visitors Bureau 211 N. Water Las Cruces, NM 88001 Convention Space: 98,665 city wide (505) 541-2444
Court Youth Center 402 W. Court Las Cruces,NM 88005 Convention Space: 7,723 sq. ft. Ballroom: 5,309 sq. ft. (505) 541-0145
New Mexico Farm And Ranch Hertage Museum 4100 Dripping Springs Road Las Cruces,NM 88011 Convention Space: 5,000 sq. ft. Ballroom: 1,500 sq. ft. Outdoor Patio:3,000 sq.ft. (505) 532-1765
Double Eagle OUR EXTENSIVE WINE LIST COMPLEMENTS YOUR MEAL.
architecture was an indigenous response to the region’s desert weather and the lack of building materials. Fields of chile border the roadways of La Mesilla, and are especially colorful as they ripen in early fall. Nearly
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Dept. of the Interior, the historic building now houses one of Southern New Mexico’s finest restaurants. Dinners such as Bourbon Pepper Steak, Chicken Mesilla, featuring the area’s famous green chile, or Grilled Halibut on Seasoned Spinach with Capers and Hollandaise are customer favorites. Our extensive wine list complements your meal. Casual luncheons of chile rellenos or enchiladas on a cool, casual plant-filled patio are memorable. Open seven days a week.
DOUBLE EAGLE On the Plaza, Historic Old Mesilla
505-523-6700
doubleeagledining.com
half of New Mexico’s chile is grown in the Mesilla Valley. New Mexico’s state vegetable, which is actually the fruit of the pepper plant, is a basic ingredient for most New Mexican dishes. Red or green chile smothers enchiladas, chimichangas and burritos. Chile is added to tacos and quesadillas, and green chile cheeseburgers are common throughout the state. Thousands of acres of pecans, cotton, grapes and other produce also fill the Mesilla Valley. The Stahmann Farms Store is located in the pecan orchards just beyond La Mesilla. (Above, left) A new fountain marks the entry of the historic district of La Mesilla. (Top) Light filters through pecan orchards in the Mesilla Valley.
LOCATION La Mesilla borders I-10 on the south side of Las Cruces. MORE INFORMATION Old Mesilla Association (505) 526-6220.
C U L I N A R Y Old West Trails OWT15 2001 New Mexico Traveler
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New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum Between the lush irrigated farmlands of the Rio Grande Valley and the cattle ranches on the slopes of the magnificent Organ Mountains lies the 47-acre Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum. Exhibitions, New Mexico food, beer and wine, live milking demonstrations, farm animals and machinery, are all part of the experience to be shared at the Heritage Museum. A historical perspective, of course, is one of the main focal points of the museum. A pithouse from the ancient Mogollon culture, built in the Main Gallery, and a replicated Anasazi grain storage room from Chaco Canyon demonstrate the mid-point of New Mexico’s agricultural history. Visitors are able to work their way through the eras of horse-drawn plows and early mechanized farm equipment into the computerized, laser leveling implements of the modern, well-educated agricultural specialist. The museum includes 25,000 square feet of exhibition space, both permanent and temporary. The first permanent exhibit, “Generations,” utilizes biographies, interactive displays and hundreds of artifacts and photographs to relate New Mexico’s agricultural history. Changing exhibits have included “Wine-making” and “From the Attic.” Outdoor exhibits include the adobe blacksmith shop, a log cabin relocated from northern New Mexico, a windmill with a 20 foot fan, and “Watering Place,” a huge steel sculpture by Gallup artist Armando Alvarez. Regular demonstrations include blacksmithing, sewing, weaving, quilting, and butter churning. The milking demonstration in the dairy barn, however, is the most popular among old and young alike. A brief film and a modern milking demonstration, followed by feeding milk to
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calves, is a real treat for those who have never spent time on the farm. Other animals on the grounds include Belgian draft horses, used for pulling wagons; longhorn cattle; Jerusalem donkeys; churro sheep and goats. Classes sponsored by the museum include cooking, adobe making, gardening, roping and other cowboy skills, photography and wool spinning. The courtyard and amphitheater are the center for special events from concerts to weddings. La Fiesta de San Ysidro, patron saint of agriculture, is held mid-May and Cowboy Days are scheduled for October. Both festive events include music, food and demonstrations. Plan to have lunch at the Purple Sage Restaurant and purchase your produce, garden supplies, cowboy gear and more at Stahmanns Museum Mercantile.
(Below) The 47-acre New Mexico Farm & Ranch Heritage Museum is dominated by the majestic Organ Mountains. (Far left, top) Water Place was created by Gallup artist Armando Alvarez and utilized 80,000 pounds of steel. (Far left, center) Children watch a modern milking demonstration at Heritage Museum. (Far left, center) The Courtyard of the Heritage Museum is utilized for performances and weddings. (Far left, bottom) Feeding a calf highlights museum tour.
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Feb. Old West Gun Show. 546-3727. March Rockhound Roundup. 546-0348. Spring Jamboree. 546-0393. April Old Timers’ Celebration. 546-9074 or 546-9406. August Great American Golf Tournament. 1-888-345-1125. Great American Duck Race. 1-888-345-1125. Old West Gun Show. 546-3727. Antiques and collectible show. 546-3726. Oct. S.W. New Mexico State Fair. 546-4890. Czechoslovakian Klobase Festival. 546-9074. Nov. Welcome Back Winter Visitors’ Dance. 546-2674. Dec. Green Tea. Luna Mimbres Museum. 546-2832. Annual Tin Street Luminaria Display. 546-9535. Snowbird Gathering & Potluck Dinner. 546-2674.
Rockhounding, duck racing, ancient cultures, and an unbeatable quality of life makes Deming a great choice.
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Deming is a community of festivities,
August includes parades, outhouse races(!),
impressive collections from ancient cultures,
costume contests, arts and crafts, dances and a
some of the Southwest's best rockhounding, a
cash prize for owners of the winning ducks.
dry climate, and abundant water. The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum
In Columbus, just south of Deming, a museum and state park preserve details of the
collections include displays of pottery from the
only attack on American soil in the continental
Mimbres culture and from early settlers. The
United States. Mexican revolutionary
museum complex includes the historic Armory
Generalíssimo Pancho Villa stormed across the
building and the old Customs House.
U.S. border in retaliation for U.S. support of
Rock specimens literally litter the ground at
the Mexican government. Subsequently,
Rockhound State Park, just southeast of
General John J. Pershing invaded Mexico in
Deming. Each year, rockhound events include
pursuit of Villa. He was unsuccessful in
guided rockhound trips, rock auctions, and
apprehending the elusive enemy, but gained
judging seminars.
valuable experience with the first use of planes
If you have never been to a duck race, you have missed one of Deming's most unique
and ground support vehicles for military purposes prior to the war in Europe.
events. This unforgettable annual event in 2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT18 Old West Trails
Additional day trips from Deming include
DESTINATION
DEMING
NEW MEXICO, USA • Mild Seasons • 362 Days of Sunshine • On I-10 Between Tucson and El Paso • 18-hole golf course •Rockhounding • 4 State Parks • Historic Museum • Hub for touring the “Old West” in SW New Mexico & Northern Mexico
shopping and dining in Palomas, Mexico, just across the border from Columbus, picnicking and hiking in
Info packet: Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 8 (NMT), Deming, NM 88031. Ph: 1-800-848-4955. Internet: www.zianet.com/deming
City of Rocks State Park, and scenic (Above) The Luna County Court House strikes an impressive stance in Deming. (Left, top) Join the Deming Duck Race for a hilarious weekend and a large purse. (Left, bottom) Prickley Pear cactus blossoms at Rockhound State Park.
F M rom id -8 th 0’ e s
drives into the Gila National Forest.
LOCATION Deming is located on I-10, near Rockhound State Park, 59 miles west of Las Cruces TOUR Travel 60 miles west on I-10 to Lordsburg. MORE INFORMATION Deming Luna County Chamber of Commerce 505-546-2674
COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES Country Club Estates provides Santa Fe style designs at values no other adult community can match!
1-800-368-9058 505-544-4254
Premier Adult Community
2901 Country Club Road Deming, New Mexico 2 miles south of the Country Club www.santafestyle.com e-mail: shanal@zianet.com
Old West Trails OWT19 2001 New Mexico Traveler
LORDSBURG
TourBreak Ghost Towns The ghost towns of Shakespeare and Steins, New Mexico, located south and west of Lordsburg, are not commercialized caricatures of the past, but the genuine articles. Gift shops and amusement rides take a back seat to history, with pasts as colorful and distinct as any in the West. Shakespeare is a community that, in 1870, was a boom town, boasting a population of 3,000. According to court records, hanging seemed to be the fastest solution to many problems. Regular tours of the town are scheduled bi-monthly on Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm. Guides dressed in the authentic garb of the Old West offer tours of the Shakespeare ghost town and provide exciting reenactments of historic events. Steins is a railroad ghost town, though it started not as a stop for the railroad, but as a station for the Butterfield Stage. Built in 1858, Steins eventually served east and westbound wagon trains, and boasted a population of more than 1,000 people, with two saloons. Open daily, Steins has much to offer.
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Lordsburg’s ghost towns and rockhounding grab the imaginations of southwest
New Mexico travelers. Lordsburg and the surrounding area had their beginnings in the 1800's as a stopover for the Butterfield Stage. Shakespeare, just south of Lordsburg, grew to about 3000 people following a silver strike and a diamond swindle. Shakespeare's reconstructed Main Street is a showcase for authenticity, and is listed in the National Historic Register. Tours are available every other weekend, and quarterly reenactments including old west shoot outs and hangings are worth a special trip. The laying of train rails in the early 1900's gave rise to the village of Steins, west of Lordsburg, which grew to about 1000 people. The railroad ghost town is now open daily to the public, and is filled with pioneer housewares, old railroad tools
and artifacts, a variety of friendly farm animals, and plenty of Old West tales. "Rockamania" is Lordsburg's contribution to the world of rockhounding. The midwinter annual event includes classes, workshops, tours and outings. Lordsburg has been more successful than any community in New Mexico at planning and infrastructure development, leading to new shops, truck stops, motels and restaurants. Daytrips from Lordsburg lead to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument in the Gila National Forest, and to the Chiricahua bird 2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT20 Old West Trails
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Jan.
Lion’s Club Gun Show. 542-9864.
Feb.
Rockamania. 542-9864. Lion’s Club Gun Show. 542-9864.
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March Kite Flying Contest. 542-9864. April
Lordsburg HIDALGO COUNTY
Landsail Contest. 542-9864.
Aug. Hidalgo County Fair and Ranch Rodeo. 542-9864. Sept. Tejano Fiesta. 542-9864.
The Lordsburg area had its beginnings as a stopover for the Butterfield Stage.
Oct.
Gem & Mineral Show. 542-9864. Sunset Limited Days (RR reunion). 542 9864.
Dec.
Christmas Parade, Moonlight Madness. 542-9864.
A Full Service Community • Rockhounding • Bird Watching • Ghost Towns • 2 National Forests Nearby
watch area in the Coronado National Forest. Make Lordsburg your Old West stopover. (Above) Sun sets on the Old West ghost town of Shakespeare. (Right) Old West reenactments reveal quick justice in a leather tough community.
LOCATION Lordsburg is located on I-10, next to Shakespeare ghost town, 60 miles west of Deming
Lordsburg, located on the old Butterfield Stage Route, was a stop on Charles Lindbergh’s 1927 transcontinental flight, and is the birthplace of New Mexico’s state song. Lordsburg Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce 117 East 2nd Street Lordsburg, NM 88045-1926 www.gilanet.com/lordsburgcoc
(505) 542-9864
TOUR Travel 44 miles northeast on US 70 and NM 90 to Silver City. MORE INFORMATION Lordsburg Hidalgo County Chamber of Commerce 505-542-9864
Days Inn & Suites
City of Lordsburg
1100 West Motel Drive Lordsburg, New Mexico 88045
206 South Main Lordsburg, NM 88045
(505) 542-3600
(505) 542-3421
Old West Trails OWT21 2001 New Mexico Traveler
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Tour of the Gila. 1-800-548-9378. Gila Bird and Nature Festival. 1-800-548-9378. Annual Blues Festival. 538-2505. June Rodeo and Parade. 538-3731. Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo. 388-2586. Rodeo Golf Tournament. 538-3785. Mimbres-Paquimé Experience. 538-2505. July 4th of July Celebration. 1-800-548 9378. Billy Casper Golf Tournament. 538-3785. Sept. Gem and Mineral Show. 1-800-548-9378. Grant County Fest. 1-800-548-9378. Ft. Bayard Centennial. 388-1281. Oct. Weekend at Galleries. 538-2505. Nov. Lighted Christmas Parade. 538-3731. Dec. Victorian Christmas, Silver City Museum. 538-5921. May
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Indeed, Silver City is one of the nation’s
Drawn to southwestern New Mexico by the
best. More and more writers, visitors and
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and
retirees are reaching that conclusion every year.
three million acres of national forest in a dry,
Modern Maturity Magazine chose Silver City as
southerly climate, visitors are frequently
the #3 Small Town in America. It was based on
astounded by the fact that the community itself
such factors as neighborliness, restaurants, ease
has so much to offer. Silver City’s renovated
of getting around on foot, ethnic diversity,
downtown shopping district, historic Victorian
recreational options, “and most important, cul-
homes and a well-established art community
tural vitality.” The listing was part of Modern
that is attracting world class buyers have become
Maturity Magazine’s “50 Most Alive Places to
strong attractions in themselves. Visitors will
Live in the United States.”
find southwestern and fine art in the galleries,
Also featured in Norman Crampton’s
the pottery of the ancient Mimbres culture in
book, The 100 Best Small Towns In America,
the museums and entertainment in renovated
this community of distinctive cultures and
historic movie and performance theaters. One-
natural beauty attracts visitors and those seek-
of-a-kind merchandise from around the world is
ing to relocate from across the nation. Silver
found in the historic district.
City also achieved the top 1% of Norman
Visitors can take a relaxing stroll through
Ford’s Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in the
Big Ditch Park, behind the visitor’s center
United States.
which is located on the site of Billy the Kid’s
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT22 Old West Trails
Modern Maturity Magazine chose Silver City as the #3 Small Town in America. It was based on such factors as neighborliness, restaurants, ease of getting around on foot, ethnic diversity, recreational options, “and most important, cultural vitality.” former childhood home. There are walking tours through the historic district, beginning and ending at the H.B. Ailman House, home of the Silver City Museum. Silver City prides itself in the number of gallery openings, exhibits and cultural events it produces each year. The area claims a strong Arts Council and Film Society, a community concert series and several local Art Guilds. A monthly art walk and annual gallery weekend are featured events. The growing list of activities are made possible by a broad base of individual memberships and strong corporate sponsorships. Support has also been forthcoming from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Kennedy Center Partners in Education and the New Mexico Arts Commission. The Mimbres Paquimé Experience, sponsored by the local Arts Council, is an outgrowth of the cultural and economic ties between Silver City and its
(Top, left) Victorian architecture gives Silver City a special atmosphere. (Far left) Colorful restaurants and galleries line the Yankie Street Art District. (Right) Bronze statue of a Buffalo Soldier reflects the group’s involvement at Ft. Bayard.
Old West Trails OWT23 2001 New Mexico Traveler
We’ll Give You Some Great Discover the colorful history dating back to 1870 when silver was discovered. Tales from those early days tell of characters like Billy the Kid, Geronimo, Judge Roy Bean, and the Hearst family. Explore the ancient cultures and see collections of the distinctive black on white pottery that was developed one thousand years ago by Mimbres Indians. Visit the Gila National Forest and wilderness area,
and discover a region of wildlife, wildflowers, and endless outdoor activities. Shop for unique Southwestern art and souvenirs, and enjoy authentic Mexican food. Stroll down historic Victorian streets to coffee houses, museums, galleries, theaters or parks to complete the day. Choose any season, there’s always a reason to come to Silver City.
Reasons To Get To Know Us.
G R A N T
C O U N T Y
Silver City/Grant County Chamber of Commerce 201 N. Hudson Street • Silver City, NM 88061 • www.silvercity.org
1-800-548-9378
Western New Mexico University Small enough to know you large enough to serve you. For information please contact Admissions:
1-800-872-WNMU (9668) www.wnmu.edu
Serving Southwest New Mexico
A walking bridge spans Big Ditch Park, which was once Silver City’s Main Street.
sister community of Casas Grandes, Mexico. The primary links for the two commu-
with commercial
nities is the Gila Cliff Dwellings of the Mogollon Culture near Silver City and the
service for
PaquimĂŠ Ruins of the Casas Grandes Culture in Mexico. Both cultures produced
17 years.
pottery painted with geometric designs and figures. A National Artist of Mexico, Juan Quesada, continues to produce his acclaimed Mata Ortiz pottery in Casas Grandes, and has demonstrated his techniques at Western New Mexico University in Silver City. The result is a growing pottery industry in both locations, adding to the rapidly expanding arts communities. Entertainment scheduled throughout the year includes the Silver City Blues Festival, the Gila Bird and Nature Festival, writers workshops, a kite festival, the Tour of the Gila bicycle race, the Signal Peak mountain bike race, the Wild Wild West Pro
1-800-MESA-AIR 1-505-388-4115
Rodeo, and numerous activities associated with Western New Mexico University. In addition to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, day trips from Silver City include Lake
Let Beauty & Peacefulness Surround You
Roberts, the historic village of Pinos Altos, City of Rocks State Park, The Catwalk National Recreation Trail, the Chino Mines copper mine tour and the ghost towns of Mogollon and Shakespeare. Silver City is well known for its friendly atmosphere, creativity and perfect climate. You can read it for yourself in Modern Maturity.
Wind Canyon Estates is located approximately three miles from Silver City on Highway 180 west. It features 10 acre parcels with breathtaking panoramic views and is bordered by the Gila National Forest to the north. 501 Silver Heights Blvd. Silver City, NM 88061
WIND CANYON ESTATES
LOCATION Silver City is at the junction of US 180 and NM 90, near the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument. TOUR Travel 62 miles northwest on US 180 to Glenwood. MORE INFORMATION Silver City/Grant County Chamber of Commerce. 505-538-3785 or 1-800-548-9378
505-538-2931
1-800-456-3132 www.zianet.com/cber
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT26 Old West Trails
E K L E K T I K A S
EKLEKTIKAS FP AD ZIA DESIGN
for casual elegance
EKLEKTIKAS 703 N. Black Street Silver City, NM 88061
505-538-8081 www.eklektikas.com
EKLEKTIKAS II 104 Yankie Street Silver City, NM 88061
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Yankie Creek Gallery An eclectic collection of fine art by local artists and craftspeople. 300 N. Bullard Street Silver City, NM 88061
505-538-5232
800-286-3661 Monday - Saturday 10 - 9 p.m. Sunday 10 - 5 p.m.
CHRISTINE’S SILVER CITY GALLERY
Multimedia works embodying diversity, beauty and harmony. 106 West Yankie Street Silver City, NM 88061
505-388-3414 “Diamond Earring” by Garth Gerstein
Thurs. - Mon. 10:00-5:00 Sun. 10:00 - 2:00 www.christinesartgallery.com
Galleries, Museums & Performing Arts Silver City's cultural expansion has outpaced even its rapid population and economic growth.
Gifted Hands Gallery Giving emphasis to the beautiful Southwest and authentic Native American art.
Open daily 314 N. Bullard Street Silver City, NM 88061
The annual “Weekend at the Galleries” now claims thirty participating locations, and there are two prominent, burgeoning museums. The strength of Silver City's art community is made evident by its increasing number of galleries and openings. Juried state-wide exhibitions and regularly scheduled art tours have been sponsored by
505-534-2104 www.giftedhands.org
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT28 Old West Trails
L V E R
C I T Y Silver City
Museum gift shop In the H.B. Ailman House Books & Regional Gifts Tues.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.-Sun. 10:00-4:00 Closed Monday
312 W. Broadway Silver City, NM
505-388-5721
Western New Mexico
University Museum Houses the largest permanent display of Mimbres pottery and culture in the world. Located in Fleming Hall on the WNMU campus. Open Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri. 9:00-4:30 Wed. 1:00-4:00 Sat.& Sun. 10:00-4:00
the Mimbres Region Arts Council and the San Vicente Artists, which have contributed to the establishment of Silver City's impressive art scene.
Free Admission Handicap Accessible
505-538-6386 www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm
The Western New Mexico University Museum houses the largest permanent exhibit of prehistoric Mimbres pottery and culture in the U.S. Casas Grandes pottery, ancient tools and jewelry, and historic artifacts are also featured.
Mimbres Region
Arts council
The Silver City Museum is the beautifully restored former home of H.B. Ailman, built in 1881. It also features the ancient Mimbres pottery, and houses artifacts from the silver mining boom era, early settlers and business ventures, and the establishment of the copper and cattle industries. (Above) Local festivals and celebrations utilize the grounds of the picturesque Silver City Museum.
Old West Trails OWT29 2001 New Mexico Traveler
Promoting all the arts in their richness to people of all ages. • Performance series September thru May. • Silver City Blues Festival Memorial Day Weekend. • Mimbres Paquime & More Mata Ortiz Symposium in July. • Weekend at the Galleries Columbus Day Weekend. 1201 Pope St. • Silver City, NM
505-538-2505
888-758-7289 www.mrac.cc
The Palace Hotel Celebrating 100 Years Located in the historic district of downtown Silver City... Reminiscent of a small hotel in the European Tradition
• Affordable Rates • 18 Rooms & Suites • Continental Breakfast 106 W. Broadway Silver City, NM 88061
505-388-1811 www.zianet.com/palacehotel
Casitas de Gila
Guesthouses Kiva Fireplaces • Hot Tub Kitchens • Seclusion Southwestern guesthouses on 70 acres overlooking Bear Creek and the Gila Wilderness. Daily/weekly rates. 30 minutes northwest of Silver City. A Very Special Place! 310 Hooker Loop • Gila, NM 88038 TOLL FREE
1-877-923-4827 505-535-4455
www.casitasdegila.com
Copper
Creek Ranch Chuck Wagon Supper & Western Show Family Dining Friday & Saturday Nights Memorial Day thru Labor Day Reservations Appreciated
20 Flury Lane • Silver City, NM
505-538-2971
Holiday Inn Express The Holiday Inn Express in beautiful Silver City is your ticket to a Southwest adventure. Let our friendly staff aid you in exploring the wonders of the Silver City area from a convenient homebase that features a fully equipped fitness center and spa facilities. 1103 Superior Street Silver City, NM 88061
1-800-HOLIDAY
DINING, LODGING & People have visited the Silver City Grant County area for centuries because of the gentle seasons and mountainous surroundings. Excellent shopping, lodging and entertainment now bolster the list, making Grant County an exciting destination in southwest New Mexico. The relaxed atmosphere, walking tours, Victorian buildings, and elevations of 5-7000 feet make the county the preferred getaway for finding that perfect handmade gift or painting, and enjoying a fine dinner and an evening of entertainment. The growing arts community in Silver City and Grant County has given rise to prominent galleries and art tours, as well as gift shops with crafts from local and southwest artisans. Handmade rough or finished furniture has also become a popular area item, since it can be built and finished to individual specifications. A full array of entertainment is now found in the Silver City area, from symphony to blues, from ballet to flamenco, from noted bicycle races to the Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo and festivals, from traditional Mexican fiestas to bird and nature outings. Cowboy poetry,
538-2525
www.hiexpress.com
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT30 Old West Trails
DIANE’S RESTAURANT 1/2P AD
ZIA DESIGN
ENTERTAINMENT melodrama and theatre productions are regularly featured on area stages. On Friday and Saturday evenings in the summer, take your family to the popular old-fashioned chuck wagon dinners and western sing along shows. Memorable lodging experiences that fit into area settings can vary from a renovated downtown Victorian hotel to elegant cabins in the tall pines. Modern motel facilities featuring jacuzzis, swimming pools and fine dining are also available.
(Above) Theater and civic groups utilize the newly renovated Silco Theater.
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SILVER CITY The Buckhorn Pinos Altos, NM 538-9911 Copper Creek Ranch 20 Flury Lane 538-2971 Diane’s Restaurant 510 North Bullard 388-8722
Steak Seafood BBQ
• •
California Pacific Rim
Nestled in Silver City’s Historic Downtown District alongside specialty shops, importers and art galleries. Diane’s will charm you with its friendliness and tempt you with its cuisine.
silver city dining E TYP
Diane’s Restaurant
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DINNER
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FAMILY DINING FRI. & SAT. NIGHT LUNCH,DINNER SAT. & SUN. BRUNCH
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Old West Trails OWT31 2001 New Mexico Traveler
Lunch: Tues.-Fri. - 11:00 am - 2:00 pm Dinner: Wed.-Sat. - 5:30 - 9:00 pm Brunch: Sat. & Sun. - 9 am - 2:00 pm 510 North Bullard Silver City, NM 88061
505-538-8722
PINOS ALTOS
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Pinos Altos, in the "tall pines" above Silver City, is the
place to turn loose, carry on a conversation with Indian Joe in the saloon, or throw popcorn at the actors in the Opera House. Search for that special gift in the old one-room schoolhouse, and stop by the art show in the Hearst Church Gallery. Enjoy old fashioned ice cream or a candlelight dinner, and spend the night in an elegantly furnished mountain cabin. Gold was discovered in 1859, and the boom town of Pinos Altos became the first county seat. Memorabilia and artifacts of gun fighters, Apache warriors, and the ancient Mimbres culture can be seen in the Buckhorn Saloon and Restaurant. Historic Pinos Altos sits on top of the world on the road to Lake Roberts, the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, and the nation’s first designated wilderness, in the three million acre Gila National Forest. (Left) Fort Cobre still stands to guard our memories against the wear of time. (Far Left) The Hearst Church in Pinos Altos has eased the souls of gamblers and miners, and more recently, to all those who look upon it.
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the
BMOTEL EAR CREEK & CABINS
Buckhorn Saloon & Opera House
limited company
in historic pinos altos Authentic 1860’s Old West Decor Fine Dining & Spirits • Saloon open 3pm • Bar Menu Available 4pm • Entertainment in Saloon • Dinner served 6pm-10pm • Closed Sundays
Under the pines in historic Pinos Altos. Gateway to the Gila Wilderness. • Complete kitchens • Color TV’s • Phones • Barbeque grills • Fireplaces Seven miles north of Silver City on Highway 15
Seven miles north of Silver City on Highway 15
505-388-4501
888-388-4515
For Reservations
505-538-9911
www.bearcreekcabins.com 2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT32 Old West Trails
TourBreak
CAREER
OPPORTUNITIES
Glenwood Glenwood opens the door to wilderness trails, trout streams, lakes nestled in pine trees, and a picturesque ghost town. The village itself consists of shops, lodges, restaurants and a state fish hatchery. Local horseback riding and wilderness pack trips are available. Five miles from Glenwood lies The Catwalk National Recreation Trail. Picnic grounds among huge cottonwoods, and long steel walkways that cling to the sides of narrow bluffs in the lower canyon combine views of historic gold mining with rugged mountain beauty. From US 180 just north of Glenwood, travelers can take a side trip on NM 159, a narrow paved road that winds into the mountains to the mining ghost town of Mogollon. A well maintained dirt road from Mogollon skirts along the northern edge of the vast Gila Wilderness, and leads on into the high country for excellent fishing and camping opportunities. (Above) Steel catwalks cling to the narrow canyon walls at The Catwalk National Recreation Trail.
GLENWOOD EVENTS May Annual Chile Cook-Off. 539-2711. July Frisco Cowbells Annual BBQ/Dance. 539-2733. 4th of July Fireworks. 539-2711. Ice Cream Social. 539-2527. Sept. Scorpion Sting Horse Endurance Ride. 539-2371. Dec. Christmas Lighting Contest. 539-2711.
TOLL FREE JOB LINE: 877-505-6289 FAX: 505-388-1127
Old West Trails OWT33 2001 New Mexico Traveler
the Gila Cliff dwellings A quiet, gentle trail meanders up a lush, secluded canyon. One wonders at the size of the ponderosa vying for room between the narrow limestone cliffs. A shady brook runs year round from the heart of a vast mountain wilderness which an ancient people once called home. The trail makes a sharp cutback revealing a spectacular view of the walled caves previously camouflaged by the thick tree canopy. Tracing the footsteps of the Mogollon culture that lived, farmed and thrived in the high sheltered dwellings nearly 700 years ago, one can quickly surmise why the ancient farmers chose the canyon as their home. It afforded protection from both the elements and enemies, and provided quick access to the fertile Gila River valley for growing corn and squash. Game in the surrounding wilderness was also plentiful. In the late 13th century the tribe constructed 42 rooms inside 6 natural caves. Uses included ceremonial, living and storage of corn. The walls were constructed of limestone slabs and some of the original wooden vigas remain in place. The ten to fifteen families that originally occupied the dwellings disappeared just two generations after moving into the caves. The area surrounding three sides of the cliff dwellings is part of the nation's first wilderness. Congress set aside the area in 1924 to allow people to “step back in time” to an era preceding human development and mechanization. Spectacular pack trips cross wide meadows bordered by sheer cliffs 1500 feet high. Streams full of native trout and hot springs tucked away in wooded seclusion enhance the dramatic wilderness experience. The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument, which includes a visitor center, campgrounds, and a small interpretive center, is located at the northern end of a 100 mile paved loop road beginning in Silver City. Take NM 15 north directly to the dwellings. Plan on allowing two hours to enjoy the scenic drive. (Right) The Gila Cliff Dwellings are a dramatic example of ancient culture. (Top Left) Fall’s many colors splash across the Gila Wilderness. (Top Center) A majestic elk awakens the wilderness. (Top Right) The Middle Fork of the Gila River feeds the lush growth along the canyon floor.
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT34 Old West Trails
Explore The Exotic! Experience The Awe! Energize Your Spirit! “Beyond our expectations”...that’s the phrase we hear again and again from our riding friends who journey with us in the Gila Wilderness. • A horseback, pack trip adventure in the Gila is a genuine wilderness experience - a riding journey that takes one into the heart of America’s first and largest wilderness area. • Beauty and majesty beyond words, vastness beyond understanding, and diversity beyond belief. • Rugged and unusual canyon walls, picturesque meadows, breathtaking vista’s all add to a journey that re-energizes the heart and the body. • Seasoned and experienced riding animals, wonderful home-cooked food and an enjoyable and fun staff all add to the beauty of the Gila Wilderness. • We’re located in Glenwood on the western edge of the Gila Wilderness, in southwest New Mexico. • Give us a call and we’ll give you all the details of riding, adventure programs - 2-6 pack trips, family and group rides, base camp ride-outs, daily and hourly rides and more.
Jim M ater
U-Trail
™
The Gila Wilderness
Scenic Hwy. 180 & San Francisco River P.O. Box 66 • Glenwood, NM 88039
1-800-U-TRAIL-3 or 1-505-539-2426
SOCORRO E
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Feb. Civil War Days. 835-0424. March M� Mountain Duathlon. 835-0424. Annual Rockhounding Days. 835-0424. April Trinity Site Tour. 835-0424. June Conrad HIlton Golf Tournament. 835-0424. July Concerts and Fireworks, NM Tech. 835-0424. 4th Annual Socorro Sprint Triathlon. 835-0424. Sept. Socorro County Fair and Rodeo. 835-0424. Annual Fat Tire Fiesta. 835-0424. Oct. San Miguel Fiesta. 835-7097. Trinity Site Tour. 835-0424. Oktoberfest. Hammel Museum. 835-0424. Enchanted Skies Star Party (6th Annual). 835-0424. ‘49ers Celebration. 835-5525. Nov. Festival of the Cranes. Bosque del Apache. 835-0424. Dec. Christmas Candy Cane Electric Light Parade. 835-0424. Socorro Balloon Rally. 835-0424.
Spanish history and space age technology intersect along the Rio Grande at Socorro.
S
Socorro is the intersection of space age
single radio telescope, capturing sounds from
technology and the 400-year-old El Camino
deep space. It can also link with radio tele-
Real, established by Spanish Conquistadores.
scopes around the world to form an antenna the
For researchers now involved in conquering
size of Earth. The high-tech unit has served as a
space, San Miguel Mission, dating back to
futuristic location for several movie settings.
1615, is the monument erected by conquerors
About ten miles south of Socorro, on the Rio
of the past, who laid the foundations for today's
Grande, the Bosque del Apache National
achievements.
Wildlife Refuge draws thousands of visitors in
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory
November and December to observe migrating
has a large facility on the campus of the New
cranes and snow geese. Tens of thousands of
Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology.
honking geese may be present at the preserve
The group operates the Very Large Array,
during the migratory period. A small flock of
located 52 miles west of Socorro. The VLA
whooping cranes winters at the 57,000-acre
complex consists of 27 dish-shaped antennas
preserve. During the migration, Socorro
spread across three 13-mile legs. It acts as a
schedules its annual Festival of the Cranes.
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT36 Old West Trails
Visit Socorro COUNTY Where History & High-Tech meet! • Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge • Championship Golf course • Ghost Towns • NRAO Very Large Array Radio Telescope • Historic District • El Camino Real
Socorro County chAmbEr oF commErcE
(Above) The gazebo in Socorro’s plaza is a center for festivities. (Left, top) Snow Geese get off to an early start from Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. (Left, bottom) Historic San Miguel Mission was established by the Spanish Conquistadores.
Socorro County Chamber of Commerce 101 Plaza P.O. Box 743 • Socorro, NM 87801 505•835•0424 www.socorro-nm.com
LOCATION Socorro is located at the junction of US 60 and I-25, near Bosque del Apache Refuge. TOUR Travel 72 miles south on I-25 to Truth or Consequences. MORE INFORMATION Socorro Chamber of Commerce 505-835-0424
This Millennium Drum is just one of the many products that await you in the Mountain Spirit Catalog. Specializing in New Mexico inspired products.
1-877-mtspirit Old West Trails OWT37 2001 New Mexico Traveler
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April
Old Time Fiddlers Contest. 894-2847. Truth or Consequences Fiesta. 894-2946. Easter Celebration. Elephant Butte Lake. 894-9066.
July
Fireworks at Elephant Butte. Truth or Consequences. 1-800-831-9487.
Oct.
Geronimo Peace Days Celebration. 894-2181. NM Old-Time Fiddlers' Contest. 894-2847.
Dec.
Christmas Jubilee Crafts Sale. 1-800-831-9487. Luminaria Display. 1-800-831-9487.
T
Truth or Consequences is known for its hot
the edge of Ralph Edwards Park, visitors can
mineral baths, museums. . . and a name that
wander through some of the deepest matates
grabs people’s attention! The community struck
(holes in the rocks where Indians ground
a deal with Ralph Edwards in 1950, and named
corn) in the Southwest.
the town after his famous television show. But the city’s former name of Hot Springs
Today, full-service bathhouses are open year round. The relaxing and healing attributes
more accurately describes the community.
of the baths are combined with a full gamut of
Apaches and early settlers recognized the
related services including Swedish massage,
healthful aspects of the hot mineral waters as
energy therapy, reflexology, ayurvedic science,
far back as the 1800’s. The Apache chief,
ear coning, T’ai Chi and yoga.
Geronimo, is said to have bathed in the hot
It is certainly the waters that make Truth
springs, thus giving his name to the Geronimo
or Consequences special. In addition to the
Springs Museum and Geronimo Days Fiesta.
hot mineral springs, full arrays of water sport-
The Geronimo Springs site just received
ing and camping facilities are available at the
attractive new tile next to the Museum, and at
area’s three state parks.
2001 New Mexico Traveler OWT38 Old West Trails
Apaches and early settlers recognized the healthful aspects of hot mineral water.
TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES
CONVENTION-VISITORS’ BUREAU WE MEAN BUSINESS
• • • • • (Above) A pond near the Rio Grande provides a relaxing setting for an early stroll through Ralph Edwards Park. (Left, top) A warm mineral bath overlooks the Rio Grande. (Left, bottom) Fishing off the pier at the Damsite Marina.
1000 Seat Ralph Edwards Auditorium 5 Conference Rooms A/V Equipment-Sound & Lighting Business Center In House Catering & Housing
Perfect Geographic Location on I-25 (505) 894-4400 1-888-784-7222 Fax (505) 894-3194 www.geronimohotsprings.com
Geronimo Trail Scenic Byway
LOCATION Truth or Consequences is located on I-25 by Elephant Butte Lake State Park in the hot springs region fo the Rio Grande.
A trip through time, from desert lakes to mountain forests.
TOUR Travel 75 miles south on I-25 to Las Cruces. MORE INFORMATION Truth or Consequences Sierra County Chamber 505-894-3536 or 800-831-9487
211 Main Street Truth or Consequences, NM 87901
(505) 894-1968 www.geronimotrail.com Paid in part by T or C lodgers tax.
Old West Trails OWT39 2001 New Mexico Traveler
Reminiscent of the days of the Old West, the Sierra Grande Lodge and Spa retains the atmosphere of a time lost in history - capitalizing on the mystique of the period while cultivating an ambience of casual comfort. Imaginations will soar as guests enter their rooms for the first time. Each room is named for a legendary personality of the region: Billy-the-Kid, Doc Holiday, Annie Oakley, Kit Carson and Geronimo, Pancho Villa and Chief Victorio, to name only a few. While each guest unwinds in an herbal wrap, relaxes with a Swedish massage, rejuvenates in the baths, savors exceptional Regional French and Southwestern food, contemplates the mountains, fishes in the Rio Grande, or sails on Elephant Butte Lake, one can only wonder how the famed characters of our history books would have enjoyed such a total and complete surrendering of the senses.
Geothermal Mineral Springs • Massage & Spa Treatments • Alternative Therapies • Guest Rooms & Suites • World Class Cheff • Concierge • Historical County Tours • Abundant Local Recreation
To make reservations or for more information, Please Call 1-888-745-6343 501 McAdoo • Truth or Consequences, New Mexico 87901 e-mail: raoul@raouls.com
Epics rich with gold and silver. Chronicles of gunfighters, miners, conquistadors, cowboys, Apaches
OLD WEST y r t n u o C SOUTHWEST NEW MEXICO
and prehistoric Mimbreno Indians. This is where it
ming • De ruces C • Las sburg ood d • Lor rve/Glenw e • Res r City e • Silv rro o • Soc or th s • Tru sequence Con
began. Those days have faded into our beautiful sunsets and what remains are friendly communities, majestic mountains, hidden valleys, cobalt blue skies, cool clean water and fresh air. OLD WEST COUNTRY offers you the opportunity to step back in history to a time... when handclasps were a little stronger and the smiles dwelled a little longer. Open space and freedom invite you to travel the trails where stage coaches and wagon trains challenged the hostilities of time. Discover Old West Country, where history is your companion.
OLD WEST COUNTRY (Southwest Region 2)
P.O. Box 884 Silver City, NM 88062
1-800-290-8330 www.oldwestcountry.com e-mail: info@oldwestcountry.com
d eeken w E RE in a F y contest. w o t a er regist n Getaw om d n a y.c ite atio webs 00 Vac tcountr r u o s Visit our $2,0 dwe l o . in w
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