Secrets Of New Mexico’s Desert Ghost Towns
Have you ever wondered what lies hidden in the vast deserts of New Mexico? New Mexico's desert ghost towns hold stories of the past, waiting to be told. These abandoned places once thrived with life during the gold and silver rushes. Now, they stand as silent witnesses to history. Walking through these towns, you can almost hear the echoes of miners, merchants, and families who once called them home. From crumbling buildings to old mines, each site offers a glimpse into a bygone era. Ready to step back in time and uncover the secrets of these forgotten places? Let's explore the allure of New Mexico's desert ghost towns.
Secrets of New Mexico's Desert Ghost Towns
New Mexico's desert ghost towns hold stories of the past, echoing with the whispers of miners, settlers, and adventurers. These abandoned places offer a glimpse into history, where time seems to stand still. Let's explore some of these hauntingly beautiful locations.
1. Chloride
Chloride, once a bustling silver mining town, now stands as a quiet reminder of the past. Founded in 1881, it thrived for a decade before the silver market crashed. Today, visitors can wander through the old buildings and visit the Pioneer Store Museum, which showcases artifacts from the town's heyday.
2. Shakespeare
Shakespeare, near Lordsburg, was a Wild West town that saw its fair share of outlaws and gunfights. Established in the 1870s, it was a hotspot for silver mining. The town's preserved buildings, including the Stratford Hotel and the Grant House, offer a peek into its rough-and-tumble past.
3. Steins
Steins, located along the Southern Pacific Railroad, was a vital stop for trains in the late 1800s. The town flourished until the railroad moved its operations. Today, Steins is a privately owned ghost town, where visitors can take guided tours to see the remnants of the old general store, post office, and other structures.
4. Lake Valley
Lake Valley, once a thriving silver mining town, is now a ghost town managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Founded in 1878, it was home to the famous Bridal Chamber mine, one of the richest silver deposits ever discovered. Visitors can explore the old schoolhouse, the chapel, and other historic buildings.
5. Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown, or E-Town, was New Mexico's first incorporated town. Established in 1866 during the gold rush, it quickly grew to a population of 7,000. However, the gold eventually ran out, and the town was abandoned. Today, only a few buildings remain, but the town's cemetery and museum offer a glimpse into its golden past.
6. Cerrillos
Cerrillos, once a bustling mining town, is now a quiet village with a rich history. Founded in the late 1800s, it was known for its turquoise and lead mines. Visitors can stroll through the historic district, visit the Cerrillos Turquoise Mining Museum, and see the old church and other preserved buildings.
7. Madrid
Madrid, a former coal mining town, has transformed into an artist's haven. In the early 1900s, it was a company town with a thriving community. After the mines closed, it became a ghost town until artists and craftspeople revived it in the 1970s. Today, Madrid is known for its galleries, shops, and vibrant arts scene.
8. Kelly
Kelly, near Magdalena, was a significant mining town in the late 1800s. Known for its lead, zinc, and silver mines, it once had a population of over 3,000. The town was abandoned in the 1940s, but visitors can still see the remains of the Kelly Mine, the old schoolhouse, and other structures.
9. Dawson
Dawson, a coal mining town, experienced two tragic mining disasters in the early 1900s. Established in 1901, it grew rapidly but was abandoned after the mines closed in 1950. Today, the town's cemetery, with its rows of white crosses, serves as a poignant reminder of its history.
10. White Oaks
White Oaks, once a thriving gold mining town, is now a ghost town with a few residents. Founded in 1879, it was known for its rich gold deposits. Visitors can explore the old schoolhouse, the Cedarvale Cemetery, and the No Scum Allowed Saloon, which still operates today.
Discovering New Mexico's Desert Ghost Towns
Exploring New Mexico's desert ghost towns offers a unique glimpse into the past. These abandoned places tell stories of boom and bust, resilience, and change. Walking through ruins and deserted streets, you can almost hear echoes of the lives once lived there. Each town has its own charm, from the mining remnants of Chloride to the eerie silence of Steins. Visiting these sites isn't just about history; it's about experiencing a different side of New Mexico's beauty. The desert landscape adds a dramatic backdrop, making each visit memorable. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just curious, these ghost towns are worth the trip. They remind us of the impermanence of human endeavors and the enduring power of nature. So pack your bags, grab a map, and set out to uncover the secrets of New Mexico's desert ghost towns.
