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Old West Trails. Deming, Las Cruces, Lordsburg, Silver City, Socorro, Truth or Consequences & Catron County, New Mexico.
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Old West Country’s Best Waterways
Gila Cliff Dwellings
Ghost Towns
The Trail of the Mountain Spirits
T R A I L S
THE COMMUNITIES OF SILVER CITY, DEMING, LAS CRUCES, TRUTH OR CONSEQUENCES, SOCORRO, LORDSBURG, RESERVE
Contents
6 Old West Country’sBest WaterwaysElephant Butte Lake on the Rio
Grande is the largest body of water
New Mexico. Water plays a key
role in the beauty of Old West
Country and its numerous
recreational opportunities.
Truth or Consequences 2Hot mineral baths were frequented by Apache
warrior Geronimo until thewhite man finally realized the
value of the waters.
Socorro 4Migrating birds on theRio Grande and spaceage radiotelescopes of
the Very Large Array keepman’s imagination in tune
with Mother Nature...and beyond.
Glenwood 10The picturesque village
of Glenwood is the gatewayto an abundance of historic
and scenic attractions.
Silver City 12Fine arts, performing artsand history set against abackdrop of sprawlingwilderness forests makeSilver City one of the
nation’s best small towns.
Table of
Published by: Zia Publishing Corp.400 N. Arizona Street Silver City, NM 88061 505-388-3966Fax: 505-388-8784 3600 Cerillos Rd. #504Santa Fe, NM 87505 505-471-0777Fax: 505-471-0220
President Joseph Burgess Managing Director Terri MengesVice President ofMarketingJim MaterCreative Director Todd YochamStaff AccountantArlyn Cooley
Senior DesignerJeannette AlvoDesignersAmy EatonJoseph FischerPamela HuertaPhotographyJoseph BurgessArt InternDominique Dominguez
ProductionCoordinatorToni WetzelWriterJoseph Burgess Copy EditorsJim MadsenNorth JohnsonAdvertising Sales Judith LeybaToni Wetzel
Mountain SpiritCoordinatorCassandra ColleyDistributionKeith LeMayE-Mail:[email protected] Websites:www.nmtraveler.comwww.mtspirit.com
Published exclusively forOld West Country as a supplement to
New Mexico Traveler
Old West Country P.O. Box 884
Silver City, NM 880621-800-290-8330
Website: www.oldwestcountry.comE-mail: [email protected]
PresidentStella Dante
Las Cruces Convention & Visitors BureauExecutive DirectorKeith LeMay
Serving the communities of: Deming
800 East Pine • Deming, NM 880311-800-848-4955
Las Cruces211 N. Water Street • Las Cruces, NM 88001
1-800-FIESTAS • 505-541-2444e-mail: [email protected]
Lordsburg117 East 2nd Street. • Lordsburg, NM 88045
505-542-9864www.gilanet.com/[email protected]
GlenwoodP.O. Box 183 • Glenwood, NM 88039
ReserveP.O. Box 415 • Reserve, NM 87830
www.gilanet/[email protected]
Silver City201 N. Hudson StreetSilver City, NM 88061 1-800-548-9378www.silvercity.org
101 Plaza, P.O. Box 743Socorro, NM 87801505-835-0424
[email protected] or Consequences
P.O. Box 31 Truth or Consequences, NM 87901
1-800-831-9487http://village.globaldrum.com/sierra_newmexico/
Old WestT R A I L S
Old West
www.silvercity.ccwww.ziadesign.comOld West Trails is a supplement to NewMexico Traveler and is manufactured andprinted in the United States of America.All rights reserved. Reproduction in wholeor part without permission of the publisheris prohibited. All submissions of editorialor photography are only accepted withoutrisk to the publisher for loss or damage.
22 Pinos Altos A mountain village that isfull of surprises, excitementand scenic grandure.
24 LordsburgAuthentic ghost towns keepAmerican history alive insouthwest New Mexico.
26 DemingRockhound Roundup andthe Great American DuckRace draw visitors to aland of clean water andancient pottery.
28 La MesillaThe 1850’s regionalheadquarters for theButterfield Stage maintainsits charm as a shoppingand dining destination.
32 Las CrucesHistory, culture, technology,world-class entertainment anda beautiful valley invite bothtalent and industry to NewMexico’s second largest city.
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.
One 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 offer a quality of life that existed
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.
Old West Country
Old West Trails 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT1
Socorro is the intersection of space age technology and the
400-year-old El Camino Real, established by Spanish
Conquistadores. For researchers now involved in
conquering space, San Miguel Mission, dating back
to 1615, is the monument erected by conquerors
of the past, who laid the foundations for today's
achievements.
The National Radio Astronomy Observatory
has a large facility on the campus of the
New Mexico Institute of Mining and
Technology. The group operates the Very
Large Array, located 52 miles west of
Socorro. The VLA complex consists of 27
dish-shaped antennas spread across three 13-mile legs. It acts as
a single radio telescope, capturing sounds from deep space. It
can also link with radio telescopes around the world to form an
antenna the size of Earth. The high-tech unit has served as a
futuristic location for several movie settings.
About ten miles south of Socorro, on the Rio Grande,
the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge draws
thousands of visitors in November and December to
observe migrating cranes and snow geese. Tens of
thousands of honking geese may be present at the preserve
during the migratory period. A small flock of whooping
cranes winters at the 57,000-acre preserve. During the
migration, Socorro schedules its annual Festival of the Cranes.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/SocorroOWT2
Socorro“ A family getaway worth planning,...nature, outdoor, historical,... must see.”
Barbara M., Long Beach, CA
E V E N T S
LocationTruth or Consequences is located on I-25 byElephant Butte Lake State Park in the hot springsregion of the Rio Grande.tourTravel 72 miles north on I-25 to Socorro.More inforMationTruth or Consequences Sierra County Chamber 505-894-3536 or 800-831-9487
(Left) A warm mineral bath overlooks the Rio Grande.
Truth or Consequences is known for its hotmineral baths, museums. . . and a name thatgrabs people’s attention! The community struck adeal with Ralph Edwards in 1950, and namedthe town after his famous television show.
But the city’s former name of Hot Springsmore accurately describes the community.Apaches and early settlers recognized the healthfulaspects of the hot mineral waters as far back asthe 1800’s. The Apache chief, Geronimo, is saidto have bathed in the hot springs, thus giving hisname to the Geronimo Springs Museum andGeronimo Days Fiesta. The recently renovatedGeronimo Springs site is next to the Museum,and at the edge of Ralph Edwards Park, visitorscan wander through some of the deepest matates(holes in the rocks where Indians ground corn) inthe Southwest.
Today, full-service bathhouses are open yearround. The relaxing and healing attributes of thebaths are combined with a full gamut of relatedservices including Swedish massage, energy thera-py, reflexology, ayurvedic science, ear coning, T’aiChi and yoga.
It is certainly the waters that make Truth orConsequences special. In addition to the hotmineral springs, full arrays of water sporting andcamping facilities are available at the area’s threestate parks.
April Easter Celebration. Elephant Butte Lake. 744-4708.Fiesta Golf Tournament. 744-4708New Mexico Old Time Fiddlers Contest. 744-5224
June Chile Challenge Cookoff. Elephant Butte Lake. 894-3264July 4th of July Celebration, Elephant Butte Lake.Oct. Sierra County Fair & FFA/4H. 894-7787.Nov. Veteran’s Day Car Show. 894-6900.Dec. Luminaria Display Foch Street & Elephant Butte Oasis
Golf Course. 744-4708.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Truth or ConsequencesOWT4
Truth or Consequences“ A place that wakes up my soul, my senses and heals my heart!!”
Diane S., El Paso, TX
ruth or onsequencesT CConvention and Visitor’s Bureau
We Mean Business• In House Catering & Housing
• 1000 Seat Ralph Edwards Auditorium • 5 Conference Rooms• A/V Equipment-Sound & Lightning • Business Center
Perfect Geographic Location 1-25
(505) 894-4400 • 1-888-784-7222 • Fax (505) 894-3194www.scedo.org
Where’s the best location to have a regional meeting? Truth or Consequences of course!
Why? Because we are perfectly located between major urban areas in South Central New Mexico along I-25.
OLD WEST Countryin
www.oldwestcountry.com
Paid for by Lodgers Tax
By Joe Burgess
Water is the asset that elevates Old West Country to a great placeto visit, live, work and retire. It is the cornerstone for desert activitiesand lifestyles, and has drawn visitors and settlers to the region forthousands of years. From the earliest of human survival to the latestin mineral water therapy, people undoubtedly come to Old WestCountry for its weather, rugged beauty, art. . . and water.
Following the presence of nomadic hunters and gatherers for sever-al millennia, the first settlements in Old West Country occurred onthe mesas and canyon walls overlooking its rivers and steams. TheMogollon culture that existed 800-1200 years ago built communitiesof pit houses and cliff dwellings. They farmed the flood plains andhunted the game that frequented these permanent sources of water.
The Rio Grande, New Mexico’s historic lifeline, provided suste-nance for Spanish Conquistadors, Mexican traders and Americansettlers for 400 years. Don Juan de Oñate originally established theCamino Real de Tierra Adentro that followed the Rio Grande Valleyfrom El Paso through Sunland Park, Las Cruces, Truth orConsequences, Socorro and on to the San Juan Pueblo. The Spanish,and later the Mexican traders utilized the highway to transportgoods and minerals from New Mexico to Chihuahua and MexicoCity. The route which continues to be used in modern times throughthe area’s fertile farming valleys has been designated a NationalScenic Byway by the United States Congress.
Today the Rio Grande contributes significantly to Old WestCountry’s recreational opportunities. The river supplies ElephantButte Lake, the state’s largest, and downstream facilities, includingCaballo Lake State Park, Percha Dam State Park, and Leasburg DamState Park. Elephant Butte provides boating marinas and jet ski,water ski, parasail, windsail, scuba, and fishing opportunities.
OLD WEST COUNTRY’SBest Waterways
OLD WES
T CO
UNTRY’S BE
ST W
ATER
WAY
S
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/WaterwaysOWT6
(Top left) A pack train carefully makes its way down a deepcanyon in the Gila Wilderness above Silver City.(Above) Carefully controlled access allows man to participatein the migratory spectacle at Bosque del Apache NationalWildlife Refuge near Socorro.(Top) The sun sets on the tranquil waters of ElephantButte, near Truth or Consequences, following a relaxingday of sailing.
“ Fascinating, beautiful,
restful, different.”
Mary T., Albuquerque, NM
Tens of thousands of migratory birds visit Old West Country waterwayseach year and create quite a spectacle at Bosque del Apache NationalWildlife Refuge. The waves of snow geese landing for the night are certainlythe most vocal of the overnight critters, but the Sandhill Cranes and an occa-sional heron are among the favorites of bird watchers and photographers.
The mountain streams of Old West Country feed its pine tree-lined troutlakes, including Quemado Lake, Snow Lake and Lake Roberts. All havewell-developed campgrounds and lodging is available at both QuemadoLake and Lake Roberts. Excellent hiking and horseback trails follow themountain streams deep into rugged wilderness areas.
Spring waters were essential to the nomadic Apaches and the westwardmoving American settlers of the 1800’s. Some of the area’s major springshave been turned into parks and historic sites. Aguirre Springs and DrippingSprings in the Organ Mountains of Las Cruces and Spring Canyon in theFlorida Mountains at Deming are popular hiking and picnic areas.
Hot springs have been relaxing muscles for centuries and are scatteredfrom the Rio Grande Valley to the nation’s first Wilderness. The hot springs inTruth or Consequences were frequented by Apaches, including Geronimo .Today the numerous mineral bath houses operated in Truth or Consequences
Old West Trails/Waterways 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT7
S I E R R A C O U N T Y
SIERRA COUNTY the
RECREATION PARADISE of New Mexico
HOT MINERAL SPRINGS,
FISHING, HUNTING,
BOATING, RAFTING,
SAILING, HIKING, GOLFING,
SWIMMING, BIKING
Sierra County/Truth orConsequences Chamber of
Commerce
P.O. Box 31Truth or Consequences, NM 879011-800-831-9487 505-894-3536
www.truthorconsequencesnm.net
PAID FOR IN PART BY TorC LODGERS TAX
Truth orConsequences
Phot
o by
Ger
ald
Gar
ner,
Jr.
Truth orConsequencesS I E R R A C O U N T Y
Explore Ghost Towns
offer a wide variety of therapudic services. On the other side of theContinental Divide, hikers and packers in the Gila Wilderness sel-dom pass up the chance to soak in hot water pools protected bythe towering canyon walls. The Faywood Hot Springs near City ofRock State Park and the Gila Hot Springs near the Gila CliffDwellings National Monument are developed sites.
Large underground water basins support growing golf and retire-ment communities throughout Old West Country. The mild climateand affordable cost of living are attractive to visitors, retirees andpeople relocating from northern locales, the humid southeast andthe harsh Arizona and Southern California deserts.
Coupled with the established art communities, rigorous perform-ing arts programs, year round festivities and community educationalopportunities, the quality of life made possible by the abundance ofwater in Old West Country makes the region a prime destinationfor vacations, business relocation and retirement.
For more information, visit www.oldwestcountry.com. OLD WES
T CO
UNTRY’S BE
ST W
ATER
WAY
S
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/WaterwaysOWT8
(Above) Lake Roberts in the Gila National Forest near Deming and Silver City.
BiLL eVanS LaKeNear the Gila River north of Silver City off US 180. Fishing andprimitive camping.BoSQue DeL aPacHe refuGeOn the Rio Grande south of Socorro, controlled public access allowsyear round observation of 377 species and thousands of birds during migratory seasons. Educational programs are scheduled.caBaLLo LaKeAn 11,000 acre warm water lake on the Rio Grande south ofTruth or Consequences. Camping facilities are available belowthe dam.eLePHant Butte LaKeA 40,000 acre warm water lake on the Rio Grande north of Truthor Consequences. Two marinas and numerous water sporting activi-ties. Camping and hotel facilities.GiLa r iVerThe river originates in the Gila Wilderness area . It is accessednorth of Silver City by State Road 15 near the Gila Cliff Dwellingsand by US 180 at Cliff.LaKe roBertSA 71 acre trout lake on State Road 35 north of Silver City. Campingand lodging facilities. Boat use with oars or electric motors.LeaSBurG DaMOne of New Mexico’s oldest diversion dams north of Las Cruces onthe Rio Grande. Camping facilities on both sides of river. Fishing,canoeing and kayaking. Ft. Selden is nearby.MiMBreS r iVerFollows NM 61 north of Deming and is crossed by NM152between Silver City and Truth or Conquences.Per cHa DaMA park with large shade trees and a playground on the Rio Grandesouth of Truth or Consequences. Camping facilities. Fishing, rafting,swimming, hiking and bird watching.QueMaDo LaKeA 130 acre trout lake south of Quemado on NM 32 and 103.Camping and lodging facilities. Boat use with oars and electric motors.r io GranDeThe largest source of water in Old West Country supplying ElephantButte and Caballo Lakes and flowing through the communities ofSocorro, Truth or Consequences, and Las Cruces.San franc iSco r iVerThe river flows through the communities of Luna, Reserve andGlenwood and is crossed by US 180 north of Glenwood and NM12 at Reserve.SnoW LaKeA 72 acre trout lake that can be accessed in warmer months bylogging roads from Reserve and Glenwood. Camping facilities. Boatuse with oars or electric motors.
L O C A T I O N S
GeronimoTrail Scenic
BywayA trip through time, from desert lakes to mountain forests.
211 Main StreetTruth or Consequences, NM
87901(505) 894-1968www.geronimotrail.com
Paid in part by T or C lodgers tax.
(Top) Seven caves contain over 40 rooms.(Above Top) The Gila Cliff Dwellings are adramatic example of ancient culture.(Above) Cliff dwelling walls were built oflimestone slabs and served to protect theinhabitants from weather and other dangers.(Left) A majestic elk awakens the wilderness.
the GilaCliff dwellings
A quiet, gentle trail meanders upa lush, secluded canyon. Onewonders at the size of theponderosa vying for room betweenthe narrow limestone cliffs. Ashady brook runs year round fromthe heart of a vast mountainwilderness which an ancientpeople once called home. The trailmakes a sharp cutback revealing aspectacular view of the walledcaves previously camouflaged bythe thick tree canopy. Tracing thefootsteps of the Mogollon culturethat lived, farmed and thrived inthe high sheltered dwellings nearly700 years ago, one can quicklysurmise why the ancient farmerschose the canyon as their home. Itafforded protection from both theelements and enemies, andprovided quick access to the fertileGila River valley for growing cornand squash. Game in thesurrounding wilderness was also plentiful.
In the late 13th century the tribeconstructed 42 rooms inside 6natural caves. Uses includedceremonial, living and storage ofcorn. The walls were constructed of
limestone slabs and some of theoriginal wooden vigas remain inplace. The ten to fifteen familiesthat originally occupied thedwellings disappeared just twogenerations after moving into thecaves.
The area surrounding three sidesof the cliff dwellings is part of thenation's first wilderness. Congressset aside the area in 1924 toallow people to “step back in time”to an era preceding humandevelopment and mechanization.Spectacular pack trips cross widemeadows bordered by sheer cliffs1500 feet high. Streams full ofnative trout and hot springs tuckedaway in wooded seclusionenhance the dramatic wildernessexperience.
The Gila Cliff Dwellings NationalMonument, which includes a visitorcenter, campgrounds, and a smallinterpretive center, is located at thenorthern end of a 100 mile pavedloop road beginning in Silver City.Take NM 15 north directly to thedwellings. Plan on allowing twohours to enjoy the scenic drive.
the GilaCliff dwellings
Old West Trails 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT9
(Left) Steel catwalks cling to the narrowcanyon walls at The Catwalk NationalRecreation Trail.(Top) The mining ghost town of Mogollon isnestled in the bottom of a picturesque GilaForest canyon.
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.
April Ranch Days. 539-2711.May Chile Cook-Off 539-2711.
Arts and Crafts Fair.539-2711.
Oct. Fall Festival. 539-2711.
Dec. Christmas Eve Live Nativity and Town Lighting. 539-2711.
E V E N T S
LocationGlenwood is located on US 180 atthe convergence of White WaterCreek and the San Francisco River.tourTravel 62 miles Southeast on US 180 to Silver City.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/GlenwoodOWT10
Glenwood“Wild and great,...untouched!”
Robert M., Tucson, AZ
GlenwoodIn Old West CountryDiscover the unparalleled beauty of
Glenwood. • Explore the Gila Wilderness • Enjoy friendly people• Visit the Catwalk and the ghost town of Mogollon
Explore Old West Country!• Go back into history where it all began.• See beautiful mountain lakes and clear mountain streams.
www.oldwestcountry.com
P.O. Box 183Glenwood, NM 88039
www.gilanet.com/glenwoodcoc
505-539-2711
Call for full details and information package
505-539-2426
Wildhorse Road. in Southwest NM • P.O. Box 66, Glenwood, NM 88039
• Daily Trail Riding Adventures
• Wilderness Horseback Pack Trips
U-TrailU-Trailwebsite: www.utrail.com
e-mail: [email protected][email protected]
• Overnight Lodging/Horseback Packages
• Ancient Indian Cliff Dwelling Trips
• Fishing Trips • Hiking With Pack Stock
• Photography Trips • Nature & Wildlife Trips
“a Horseback Vacation friends & family can enjoy”“a HorsebackVacation friends & family can enjoy”H
ors
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2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Silver CityOWT12
Indeed, Silver City is one of the nation’s best.
More and more writers, visitors and retirees are reach-
ing that conclusion every year. Modern Maturity
Magazine chose Silver City as the #3 Small Town in
America. It was based on such factors as
neighborliness, restaurants, ease of get-
ting around on foot, ethnic diversity,
recreational options, “and most
important, cultural vitality.” The
listing was part of Modern Maturity
Magazine’s “50 Most Alive Places to
Live in the United States.”
Also featured in Norman
Crampton’s book, The 100 Best
Small Towns In America, this
community of distinctive cultures and natural beauty
attracts visitors and those seeking to relocate from across
the nation. Silver City also achieved the top 1% of
Norman Ford’s Healthiest Places to Live and Retire in
the United States.
Drawn to southwestern New Mexico by the
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument and
three million acres of national forest in a dry,
southerly climate, visitors are frequently
astounded by the fact that the community
itself has so much to offer. Silver City’s ren-
ovated downtown shopping district, his-
toric Victorian homes and a well-estab-
lished art community that is attracting
world class buyers have become strong
(Top) A walking bridgespans Big Ditch Park,which was once SilverCity’s Main Street.(Top Right) St. Vincentde Paul Catholic Churchbuilt in 1874.(Far Right) Victorianarchitecture gives Silver City a specialatmosphere.
Silver City“The Best in the West: history, culture, arts and visually gorgeous.”
Michael B., Sonora, CA
attractions in themselves. Visitors will find
southwestern and fine art in the galleries, the
pottery of the ancient Mimbres culture in
the museums and entertainment in renovat-
ed historic movie and performance theaters.
One-of-a-kind merchandise from around the
world is found in the historic district.
Visitors can take a relaxing stroll
through Big Ditch Park, behind the visitor’s
center which is located on the site of Billy
the Kid’s former childhood home. There are
May Tour of the Gila Bicycle Race. 388-3222Silver City Blues Fesitval.538-2505.Wild Wild West Pro Rodeo and Parade.538-3785.
June Annual Gila Thunder Bike Run.388-2427.
July Mimbres Paquime and More - Pottery of the Southwest. 538-2505.Hummingbird Festival. 536-3206
Aug. Annual Gun Show. 388-2360Sept. Gem and Mineral Show. 538-3216
Billy Casper Benefit Golf Classic. 538-4067.Gila Inner Loop Bicycle Tour. 388-3351.Renaissance Fair. 534-1481.
Oct. Weekend at the Galleries. 538-2505.Nov. Lighted Christmas Parade. 538-3731.Dec. Victorian Christmas,
Silver City Museum. 538-5921.
E V E N T S
Old West Trails/Silver City 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT13
Silver City's cultural expansion has outpaced even its
rapid population and economic growth. 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 the Mimbres
Region Arts Council and the San Vicente Artists, which
have contributed to the establishment of Silver City's
impressive art scene.
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.
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) The Shangri-La Chinese Acrobats, their multi-faceted and multi-culturalproduction features dazzling acrobatic displays, Kung Fu, brillant costumes, andeven a touch of Chinese comedy.
THE ART OF S I LVER C I T YPromoting 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 Pottery
Symposium in July.• Weekend at the Galleries Columbus
Day Weekend. • Tours to Mata Ortiz - October
Mimbres Region Arts council
Houses the largest permanent displayof Mimbres pottery and culture in theworld. Located in Fleming Hall on the
WNMU campus.Open Mon.-Fri. 9:00-4:30
Sat.- Sun. 10:00-4:00Free Admission Handicap Accessible
fax: 538-6385505-538-6386
www.wnmu.edu/univ/museum.htm
Western New MexicoUniversity Museum
106 West Yankie StreetSilver City, NM 88061
505-388-3414Thurs. - Mon. 10:00-5:00
Sun. 10:00 - 2:00www.christinesartgallery.com
Multimedia works embodying diversity, beauty and harmony.
CHRISTINE’SSILVER CITY GALLERY
In the H.B. Ailman House
Books & Regional GiftsTues.-Fri. 9:00-4:30 Sat.-Sun. 10:00-4:00
Closed Monday
Silver City Museum Gift Shop
312 W. Broadway, Silver City, NM
505-388-5721
1201 Pope St. • Silver City, NM505-538-2505888-758-7289
www.mrac.cc
Oil: A View From Bear Wallow Lookout Artist: Sandy Urban
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Silver CityOWT14
for casual eleganceEKLEKTIKAS
703 N. Black StreetSilver City, NM 88061
EKLEKTIKAS II104 Yankie Street
Silver City, NM 88061www.eklektikas.com505-538-8081
E K L E K T I K A S
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 collec-
tions 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.
We’ll Give You Some Great
G R A N T C O U N T YSilver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce
201 N. Hudson Street • Silver City, NM 88061 • www.silvercity.org
1-800-548-93781-800-548-9378
Reasons To Get To Know Us.
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 spon-
sorships. 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 sister
community of Casas Grandes, Mexico. The primary
links for the two communities is the Gila Cliff
Dwellings of the Mogollon Culture near Silver City
and the Paquimé Ruins of the Casas Grandes Culture
in Mexico. Both cultures produced pottery painted
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Silver CityOWT18
Serving Southwest
New Mexico
with commercial
service for
18 years.
1-800-MESA-AIR1-505-388-4115
501 Silver Heights Blvd.Silver City, NM 88061
1-800-456-3132505-538-2931
www.zianet.com/cber
Let Beauty & Peacefulness Surround You
WIND CANYONESTATES
WIND CANYONESTATES
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, writers work-
shops, the Tour of the Gila bicycle race, the Signal
Peak mountain bike race, the Wild Wild West Pro
Rodeo, and numerous activities associated with
Western New Mexico University.
In addition to the Gila Cliff Dwellings, day trips
from Silver City include Lake 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.
(Top) Copper Cowbelles during 4th of July activities.
Old West Trails/Silver City
Lunch: Tues.-Fri. 11:00 am - 2:00 pmDinner: Tues.-Sat. 5:30 - 9:00 pm
Breakfast: Sat. & Sun. 9 am - 2:00 pm
Nestled in Silver City’s Historic Downtown District alongside specialty shops, importers and art galleries.
505-538-8722
510 North Bullard Silver City, NM 88061
Will charm you withits friendliness and tempt
you with its cuisine.
OWT19 2002 New Mexico Traveler
People have visited the Silver City Grant County areafor centuries because of the gentle seasons andmountainous surroundings. Excellent shopping, lodgingand entertainment now bolster the list, making GrantCounty an exciting destination in southwest NewMexico. The relaxed atmosphere, walking tours,Victorian buildings, and elevations of 5-7000 feet makethe county the preferred getaway for finding that perfecthandmade gift or painting, and enjoying a fine dinnerand an evening of entertainment.
The growing arts community in Silver City and GrantCounty has given rise to prominent galleries and art tours,as well as gift shops with crafts from local and southwestartisans. Handmade rough or finished furniture has alsobecome a popular area item, since it can be built andfinished to individual specifications.
A full array of entertainment is now found in the SilverCity area, from symphony to blues, from ballet toflamenco, from noted bicycle races to the Wild Wild WestPro Rodeo and festivals, from traditional Mexican fiestas tobird and nature outings. Cowboy poetry, melodrama andtheatre productions are regularly featured on area stages.On Friday and Saturday evenings in the summer, take yourfamily to the popular old-fashioned chuck wagon dinnersand western sing along shows.
Memorable lodging experiences that fit into areasettings can vary from a renovated downtown Victorianhotel to elegant cabins in the tall pines. Modern motelfacilities featuring jacuzzis, swimming pools and finedining are also available.
DINING, LODGING & ENTERTAINMENTDINING, LODGING & ENTERTAINMENTFine dining is now a tradmark of Silver City.
Copper Creek Wranglers
Spectacular Views • Incredible QuietBrilliant Night Skies
Spend a night, a week or longer in thesewonderful southwestern guesthouses. Full
kitchens, porches, fireplaces, wildlife, hiking trails, hot tub, 10-inch telescope.
30 minutes NW of Silver City
310 Hooker Loop • Gila, NM 88038
TOLL1-877-923-4827FREE
505-535-4455www.casitasdegila.com
Casitas de GilaGuesthouses
The PalaceHotel
Celebrating 100 YearsLocated 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
505-388-1811www.zianet.com/palacehotel
CopperCreek 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 InnExpress
The Holiday Inn Express in beautiful Silver City is your ticket to aSouthwest adventure. Let our friendly
staff aid you in exploring the wonders ofthe Silver City area from a convenienthomebase that features a fully equipped
fitness center and spa facilities.
1103 Superior StreetSilver City, NM 88061
1-800-HOLIDAY538-2525
www.hiexpress.com
2001 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Silver CityOWT20
TYPEOF
CUISINE
ENTERTAINM
ENT
PATIODINI
NG
RESERVATION
S
DESCRIPTION
CREDITCAR
DS
COCKTAILSSILVER CITY DINING
The Buckhorn Steak • • • • DINNERPinos Altos, NM 538-9911 SeafoodCopper Creek Ranch BBQ • • FAMILY DINING 20 Flury Lane 538-2971 FRI. & SAT. NIGHTDiane’s Restaurant California • • BW
LUNCH,DINNER510 North Bullard 388-8722 Pacific Rim SAT. & SUN. BRUNCHPiñon Cafe & Bakery Gourmet Breakfast • • • BREAKFAST, LUNCH602 North Bullard 534-9168 & Sandwiches & DINNERCafé Saveur at Cienega Spa Low Sugar, Low Fat • • • BW
BREAKFAST, LUNCH 101 North Cooper Gourmet Cuisine DINNER & AFTER HOURS
S I L V E R C I T Y
LocationSilver City is at the junction of US 180 and NM 90, near theGila Cliff Dwellings National Monument.tourTravel 44 miles southwest on NM 90 and US 70 to Lordsburg.More inforMationSilver City Grant County Chamber of Commerce. 505-538-3785 or 1-800-548-9378
MELANIE ZIPINLocal recording artistMelanie Zipin brings herheartfelt vocals to theOpera House and othersouthwest stages.
MAXIMO BANDThe Maximo Band beltsout a tune duringIndependence Day festivities and is a localnightclub favorite.
AFTER SCHOOLDRAMA“After School Drama” isan important segment ofthe Mimbres RegionArts Council’s perform-ing arts program.
COPPER CREEKRANCHEnjoy the cowboy antics and melodies of this west-ern show. Bring the young-sters and come early to loadup on chuckwagon grub.
Old West Trails/Silver City 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT21
WARD ARTHURRUDICKWard Arthur Rudick a 4thgeneration Silver CitianPerforms and SingsBroadway music for localcharities and fundraisers.
2002 New Mexico Traveler OWT22
E V E N T S
June Pinos Altos Art Fair. 505-388-5202.
tourPinos Altos is 6 miles north of Silver City onNM 15 to the Gila Cliff DwellingsNational Monument. Return to Silver City.
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 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.
(Top) The Hearst Church now serves as an art gallery.(Left) The Buckhorn Saloon and Opera House offerauthentic fine dining.
Old West Trails/Pinos Altos
Pinos Altos“An old town with heritage and relaxation written all over it.
Julie B., Erie PA
TourBreak
trail of the mountain spirits scenic byway
Brilliant sunsets, starlit night skies and uniqueplaces to visit are the treasures you will find alongthe "Trail of the Mountain Spirits." Imagine the spiritsthat walk these mountain trails: ancient Mogollon,Mimbreno and Apache native Americans . . . theConquistadors, Mountain Men and Buffalo Soldiers . . .the Miners and Cattlemen of the old west.
The magic of this country is the beauty and boun-ty of the valleys and mountains; the elk, deer, cougarand other creatures of the wilderness. Fill your spiritwith the magic and take it with you.
Come travel this beautiful historic byway, eithernorth on NM 15 to the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Or choosethe southeast approach, north through the MimbresValley via US 180 and NM 152 to NM 35 (for vehi-cles over 20' in length, it’s the recommended route)
Gateway to the Gila WildernessBefore you start on your journey there may
be 3-4 stops in Silver City, "Gateway to the GilaWilderness," you may wish to checkout first. Thevisitors center’s trained volunteer staff willanswer your questions and help you enjoy yourvisit. WNMU Museum has the largest permanent dis-play of prehistoric Mimbres bowls in the U.S., as wellas a display on the Gila National Forest. Your routewill expose you to both. The Silver City Museum alsowould provide excellent orientation. The US ForestService has the latest trail and forest information.
Old West Trails/Pinos Altos 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT23
(Top) Lake Roberts adds to the scenic beauty along theTrail of the Mountain Spirits.
Get An Old West Country CD Featuring:
• Over 60, 360 degree Virtual Tour MoviesJust click and rotate the high resolutionpictures.
• Visit. Las Cruces, Silver City, Deming,Socorro, Truth or Consequences,Lordsburg, Glenwood/Reserve.
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Check, if you would like a FREE 16 page Old West Country.
Send To: Old West CountryPO Box 884Silver City, NM 88062
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the Buckhorn
Saloon & Opera Housein historic pinos altos
Authentic 1860’s Old West Decor FineDining & Spirits
• Saloon open 3:00pm• Bar Menu Available 4pm• Entertainment in Saloon• Dinner served 6:00 -10:00pm• Closed Sundays
Seven miles north of Silver City on Highway 15
For Reservations
505-538-9911
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 watch area in the
Coronado National Forest.
Make Lordsburg your Old West stopover.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/LordsburgOWT24
Lordsburg“A trip back into the wide open spaces of the old west.”
Daniel W., San Diego, CA
TourBreak
Jan. Lion’s Club Gun Show. 542-9864.Feb. Cowboy Poetry Fiesta. 542-9864.April Gunfighters Reunion and Wild West Days. 542-9864.
Shakespeare Ghost Town Re-enactment. 542-9864.July July 4th Activities and 5K Run. 542-9864.Aug. Hidalgo County Fair. 542-9864.Sept. Tejano Fiesta. 542-9864.Oct. Rodeo Chile Festival 542-9864.
Air Show. 542 9864.Dec. Christmas Parade, Moonlight Madness. 542-9864.
E V E N T S
Ghost TownsThe ghost towns of Shakespeare and Steins, New
Mexico, located south and west of Lordsburg, are notcommercialized caricatures of the past, but the genuinearticles. Gift shops and amusement rides take a backseat to history, which is as colorful and distinct as anyin the West.
Shakespeare is a community that, in 1870, was aboom town, boasting a population of 3,000. Accordingto court records, hanging seemed to be the fastestsolution to many problems.
Regular tours of the town are scheduled bi-monthlyon Saturdays and Sundays at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm.
Guides dressed in the authentic garb of the Old Westoffer tours of the Shakespeare ghost town and provideexciting reenactments of historic events.
Steins is a railroad ghost town, though it started notas a stop for the railroad, but as a station for theButterfield Stage. Built in 1858, Steins eventually servedeast and westbound wagon trains, and boasted apopulation of more than 1,000 people, with two saloons.
Open daily, Steins has much to offer.
LocationLordsburg is located onI-10, with Shakespeareghost town nearby.
tourTravel 60 miles east onI-10 to Deming.
MoreinforMationLordsburg HidalgoCounty Chamber ofCommerce 505-542-9864
(Top Right) Steins railroad ghosttown is full of stories and relics.(Above) Tours, reenactments anddetailed reconstruction arefeatures of the Old West ghosttown of Shakespeare.
LordsburgHIDALGO COUNTY
A Full Service Community
• Rockhounding • Bird Watching • Ghost Towns • 2 National Forests Nearby
Lordsburg, located on the old Butterfield Stage Route,
was a stop on Charles Lindbergh’s1927 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
Days Inn & Suites1100 West Motel DriveLordsburg, NM 88045(505) 542-3600
City of Lordsburg206 South Main
Lordsburg, NM 88045(505) 542-3421
HIDALGO COUNTY
Lordsburg
Old West Trails/Lordsburg 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT25
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/DemingOWT26
(Above) The LunaCounty Court Housestrikes an impressivestance in Deming. (Top Right) City ofRocks is a gatheringof huge monoliths.(Lower Right) TheDeming Duck Race isa hilarious romp.Rent-a-duck servicesare available.
Deming is a community of festivities, impressive
collections from ancient cultures, some of the
Southwest's best rockhounding, a dry climate, and
abundant water.
The Deming Luna Mimbres Museum
collections include displays of pottery from the
Mimbres culture and from early settlers. The
museum complex includes the historic Armory
building and the old Customs House.
Rock specimens literally litter the ground
at Rockhound State Park, just southeast of
Deming. Each year, rockhound events
include guided rockhound trips, rock auctions, and
judging seminars.
If you have never been to a duck race, you have missed
one of Deming's most unique events. This unforgettable
annual event in August includes parades, outhouse
races(!), costume contests, arts and crafts, dances and a
cash prize for owners of the winning ducks.
In Columbus, just south of Deming, a museum and
state park preserve details of the only assault on the
continental United States prior to the September 11
terrorist attack. Mexican revolutionary General
Pancho Villa stormed across the U.S. border in
retaliation for U.S. support of the Mexican
government. Subsequently, General John J.
Pershing invaded Mexico in pursuit of Villa.
He was unsuccessful in apprehending the elusive
enemy, but gained valuable experience with the
first use of planes and ground support vehicles
for military purposes prior to the war in Europe.
Additional day trips from Deming include
shopping and dining in Palomas, Mexico, just across
the border from Columbus, picnicking and hiking in
City of Rocks State Park, and scenic drives into the
Gila National Forest.
Deming“If you are interested in history, beautiful country, and friendly people, this is the place to visit.”
Jane B., Tularosa, NM
Feb. Old West Gun Show. 546-3727.Feb. Winter Duck Race. 544-0469.March Rockhound Roundup. 546-0348.
Spring Gemboree. 546-0393.April Old Timers’ Celebration.
546-9074 or 546-9406.July Wine Festival. 5469324.August 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.Wine Festival St. Clair Winery. 546-9324.
Nov. Annual Gemboree. 546-0393.Dec. Green Tea. Luna Mimbres
Museum. 546-2832.Annual Tin Street Luminaria Display. 546-9535.
LocationDeming is located on I-10, near RockhoundState Park, 59 miles west of Las Cruces
tourTravel 59 miles east from Deming on I-10 toLas Cruces.
More inforMationDeming Luna County Chamber of Commerce505-546-2674
E V E N T S
DESTINATION
DEMINGNEW 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
Info packet: Deming-Luna County Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 8 (NMT),
Deming, NM 88031. Ph: 1-800-848-4955. Internet: www.demingchamber.com
Old West Trails/Deming 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT27
COUNTRY CLUB ESTATES
Premier Retirement Living
2901 Country Club Road Deming, New Mexico
2 miles south of theCountry Club
1-800-368-9058505-544-4254
Country Club Estates provides Santa Festyle designs at values no other adult
community can match!
From
the
Mid-8
0’s
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 unsa-
vory 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 around the plaza,
and of course, the mouth watering aroma of roasting chile,
(Above) The oldSpanish architectureand festiveatmosphere of LaMesilla contrasts theadjacent bustlingcity of Las Cruces.(Right) San AlbinoChurch dominatesthe plaza of La Mesilla.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/La MesillaOWT28
La Mesilla“Offers a unique opportunity to go back and forth in time. It is one of our favorite areas of the state for pure diversity.”
Mr. and Mrs. William H., Rio Rancho, NM
Jan. Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally. 526-7528.
May Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. 525-1965.Sept. The Diez y Seis de Septiembre
Fiesta. 525-2933.Oct. Dia de los Muertos. 1-800-343-7827.Dec. Christmas Carols and
Luminarias. 523-1654
E V E N T S
Old West Trails/La Mesilla 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT29
Located on the plaza in historic Old Mesilla, and not far from the intersectionof 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 theMexican-Indian dishes uniquely influenced by the New Mexican culture. Their bestkept secrets, however, may be their delicious steaks and refreshing tropical drinks.
The warm, friendly service and consistently excellent cuisine make it not onlypopular 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.
A TRULY AUTHENTIC DINING & SHOPPING EXPERIENCE.
LA POSTA DE MESILLAFamed for Mexican Food and Steaks Since 1939
2410 Calle De San AlbinoMesilla, NM 88046505-524-3524
LA POSTALA POSTA
C U L I N A R Y A R T S
enchiladas and thick steaks from nationally
recognized restaurants. Every door opens to
galleries, antique shops, bookstores, coffee-
houses, 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 men in the
silver-studded suits of the caballero grace
the plaza as the music 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 24, the traditional Christmas
An arts advocacy,
non-profit organizationwhose mission is to promote,foster and strengthen the
general welfare, knowledgeand appreciation of
performing, visual andliterary arts in southern
New Mexico.
DOÑA ANA ARTS COUNCIL
505-523-6403Fax: 505-523-4760
224 N. Campo StreetLas Cruces, NM 88001
PO Box 1721Las Cruces, NM 88004e-mail: [email protected]
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/La MesillaOWT30
Double Eagle Southwestern, casual Lunch, dinner 308 Calle de Guadalupe 523-6700 Steak, Seafood • • • • fine diningLa Posta de Mesilla New Mexican Lunch, Dinner2410 Calle de San Alvino 524-3524 Steak • • • CasualMesón de Mesilla Breakfast, Lunch,1803 Avenida de Mesilla 525-2380
Continental • • • • • Dinner fine dining
LA MESILLA DINING TYPE OF
CUISINE
ENTERTAINMENT
PATIODIN
INGRES
ERVATIONS
CREDITCAR
DSCOC
KTAILS
DESCRIPTION
TOWN OF MESILLA LODGING
Boutique Resort Hoteland Gourmet Restaurant
• 15 rooms and suites with privatebaths, some with fireplaces • Full gourmet breakfast
included • Tranquil setting and magnificent views
• Seasonal swimming pool • LoungeBanquet Facility • Award-winningchef, excellent continental menu
and wine list
Meson de Mesilla1803 Avenida de Mesilla
PO Box 1212 Mesilla, NM 88046(505) 525 2380 (800) 732 6025
Fax (505) 527-4196www.mesondemesilla.com
3 Suites all with private baths and fully stocked wet bars
• Sunroom • Swimming Pool and Jacuzzi in the inner courtyard • Full Breakfast prepared to order
Happy Trails Bed and Breakfast
Located in Old MesillaMailing Address: 1857 Paisano
Las Cruces, NM 88005(505) 527-8471
Sylvia Byrnes - proprietorwww.las-cruces-new-mexico.com
Top: The Organ Mountains rise abruptly from the floor ofthe Mesilla Valley, protecting the orchards and farms alongthe Rio Grande.
LocationLa Mesilla borders I-10 on the Don Juande Oñate Trail, just south of Las Cruces.More inforMationOld Mesilla Association (505) 526-6220.
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 carefully
restored to provide visitors a glimpse of south-
west communities of a hundred years ago. Tile
work, colorful doors, and beds of every variety
of cacti imaginable enhance the architecture
throughout the village. Adobe 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 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.
Old West Trails/La Mesilla 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT31
DOUBLE EAGLEOn the Plaza, Historic Old Mesilla
505-523-6700www.doubleeagledining.com
The Gadsden Room shown above is one of 8 different dining roomsin this 150 year old home listed on the National Historic Register.
Filled with art and antiques, the Double Eagle offers steaks andseafood, veal and poultry, lobster and pastas plus an extensive wine list.
For casual lunches or elegant dinners, choose the Double Eagle.
THE CROWN JEWEL OF HISTORIC OLD MESILLA
Double Eagle
Las Cruces is a crossroads of interstate highways and rail-
roads, a crossroads of the historic El Camino Real and the
Butterfield Trails and certainly a crossroads of many cultures.
New Mexico's second largest city spreads out before
the rugged spires of the picturesque Organ
Mountains and continues to provide support
for its historic roles in tourism and trade.
Today in Las Cruces, the rapidly
growing manufacturing, farming, processing
and high tech community still maintains its
Spanish, Mexican and Old West flavor. While
New Mexico State University and local Las Cruces
businesses maintain close ties with the technologically
advanced operations at White Sands Missile Range on the
east side of the Organ Mountains, Mesilla Valley fiestas and
processions keep alive the customs of bygone eras.
The cultural aspects of the community have kept pace with
the population growth. The lyric opera, symphony, ballet
and community chorus have enhanced the expanding
development of the arts. Both the community and
university theaters reproduce full playbills
each season.
Area museums and Ft. Selden State
Monument on the Rio Grande depict living
conditions for settlers and soldiers in the 1800's.
The Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum on Dripping Springs
Road depicts the history of New Mexico’s farming community
for the last 3000 years. Displays, demonstrations, animals and
Top: The yucca, whichis the New MexicoState Flower, is apopular plant forzeriscape landscapingin the southwest.Right: The BicentennialLog Cabin, locatednear the downtownmall, houses artifactsand furnishings of thepioneer era.
2002 New Mexico Traveler Old West Trails/Las CrucesOWT32
Las Cruces“An unusual and beautiful area in the United States. The landscape and people are like no other.”
Karen M., Lander, WY
Jan. Annual Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally. 526-7528.March Border Book Festival. 524-1499.April 14th Annual Frontier Days. 1-800-429-9488.May Annual La Fiesta de San Ysidro. 522-4100.June Rio Grande Festival de Arts. 522-7611.July Las Cruces Farmers and Crafts Market,
Christmas in July. 528-3276.Aug. New Mexico Wine Harvest Festival. 525-4543.Sept. The Whole Enchilada Fiesta. 524-6832.Oct. Cowboy Days. 522-4100.
Southern New Mexico Sate Fair. 524-8602.Las Cruces Air Fair 2002. 524-2762.
Nov. International Mariachi Conference. 525-1735.31st Annual Renaissance Craftfaire. 523-6403.
Dec. Fiesta of Our Lady of Guadalupe. 526-8171.Christmas Carols and the Luminarias on the Plaza. 523-1654.
E V E N T S
LOCATIONJunction of I-10 and I-25 on the Rio Grande,44 miles North of El Paso.
TOURTravel 75 miles north from Las Cruces onI-25 to Truth or Consequences.
MORE INFORMATIONLas Cruces Convention and Visitors’ Bureau505-541-2444
Old West Trails/Las Cruces 2002 New Mexico TravelerOWT33
Ourselectionof NativeAmericanjewelry, potteryand kachinas isone of the largestand best in LasCruces. We carryNavajo, Zuni and Hopijewelry; Navajo and Acomapottery & Navajo rugs.
Oñate Gift Shop is the exclusivedealer for Lawrence Vargas“Blackware” pottery in southernNew Mexico.
All jewelry is hand selected tobring you quality jewelry ataffordable prices, includinghard to find one-of-a-kindpieces.
When in Las Cruces shop where the locals shop
(Inside Hilton Hotel)705 South Telshore Blvd.Las Cruces, NM 88011505-532-4226Fax: 505-526-1896
GIFT SHOP
Las Cruces Convention and Visitors Bureau
In Old West Country• Visit Old Mesilla • Visit Fort Selden
• Visit NM Farm & Ranch Heritage MuseumExplore Old West Country!
• Great Weather and Scenery
www.oldwestcountry.com www.lascrucescvb.org
211 N. Water Street • Las Cruces, NM 88001
1-800-FIESTAS
equipment make this 47-acre interactive muse-
um one of the state’s most exciting.
For the visitor, scenic and challenging
hiking trails abound in the Organ
Mountains, and La Mesilla's historic plaza
offers excellent shopping for southwest wares.
Las Cruces is centrally located for day trips to
Juárez, México, White Sands National
Monument, the International Space Hall of
Fame, Carlsbad Caverns National Park,
Elephant Butte Lake State Park, Bosque del
Apache National Wildlife Refuge and the
Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument .
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OLD WEST COUNTRYSouthwest Region 2
P.O. Box 884 • Silver City, NM 880621-800-290-8330www.oldwestcountry.com
e-mail: [email protected]
OLDWEST OLD
WEST Country
SOUTHWESTNEW MEXICO
• Deming • Las Cruces • Lordsburg • Reserve/Glenwood • Silver City • Socorro • Truth or Consequences
Ste
ins
Mer
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ant B
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Duc
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Cat
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of H
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Chu
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VLA
Lake
Rob
erts
Des
ert B
loom
ShakespeareMineral Hot SpringsOregon MountainsWillow Creek Cliff DwellingsP
ainted Desert
Golf C
ourseS
ilver City M
useumFarm
& H
eritage Museum
Elephant B
utteM
ogollonP
ainted Desert
Bosque del A
pache
