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Secrets Of New Mexico’s Weathered Desert Ghost Towns

Published:

by Coral Lucio

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Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden in New Mexico's weathered desert ghost towns? These abandoned places, once bustling with life, now stand as silent witnesses to history. Walking through these towns feels like stepping back in time. You can almost hear the echoes of miners, traders, and families who once called these places home. Each town has its own unique story, from the gold rush days to the rise and fall of the railroad. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good adventure, exploring these ghost towns offers a glimpse into a past long forgotten. Ready to uncover the mysteries of New Mexico's deserted treasures?

Secrets of New Mexico's Weathered Desert Ghost Towns

New Mexico's desert landscape hides many secrets, including ghost towns that whisper tales of the past. These abandoned places once thrived with life, now they stand as silent witnesses to history. Let's uncover some of these hidden gems.

1. Cerrillos

Cerrillos, once a bustling mining town, now offers a glimpse into the past with its old buildings and dusty streets.

  • History: Founded in the 1870s, Cerrillos was known for its rich deposits of turquoise and lead.
  • Attractions: Visit the Cerrillos Turquoise Mining Museum and the historic Saint Joseph Church.
  • Activities: Explore the nearby Cerrillos Hills State Park for hiking and wildlife spotting.

2. Madrid

Madrid, a former coal mining town, has reinvented itself as an artist's haven.

  • History: In the late 1800s, Madrid was a major coal producer for the Santa Fe Railroad.
  • Attractions: Check out the Madrid Old Coal Town Museum and the numerous art galleries.
  • Activities: Enjoy live music at the Mine Shaft Tavern or take a scenic drive along the Turquoise Trail.

3. Chloride

Chloride, a silver mining town, offers a peek into the rugged life of miners.

  • History: Established in 1881, Chloride boomed with the discovery of silver.
  • Attractions: Visit the Pioneer Store Museum, which has been preserved as it was in the 1880s.
  • Activities: Walk through the ghost town and see the old cabins and mining equipment.

4. Lake Valley

Lake Valley, once a silver mining hotspot, now stands as a quiet reminder of the past.

  • History: Founded in 1878, Lake Valley was famous for the Bridal Chamber, one of the richest silver deposits ever found.
  • Attractions: Explore the remains of the schoolhouse, church, and other buildings.
  • Activities: Take a self-guided tour to learn about the town's history and its eventual decline.

5. Steins

Steins, a railroad town, offers a unique look at life in the early 20th century.

  • History: Established in the late 1800s, Steins served as a stop for the Southern Pacific Railroad.
  • Attractions: Visit the Steins Railroad Ghost Town and see the preserved buildings and artifacts.
  • Activities: Take a guided tour to hear stories about the town's colorful past.

6. Shakespeare

Shakespeare, a town with a wild west history, is a must-see for history buffs.

  • History: Founded in the 1870s, Shakespeare was known for its lawlessness and rough characters.
  • Attractions: Explore the Shakespeare Ghost Town and see the old saloon, hotel, and other historic buildings.
  • Activities: Attend a reenactment of a gunfight or take a guided tour to learn about the town's notorious past.

7. Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown, once a gold mining town, now offers a glimpse into the gold rush era.

  • History: Established in 1866, Elizabethtown was New Mexico's first incorporated town.
  • Attractions: Visit the Elizabethtown Museum and see the remnants of the old buildings.
  • Activities: Explore the nearby Red River for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking.

8. Dawson

Dawson, a coal mining town, has a tragic history that still lingers.

  • History: Founded in 1901, Dawson was the site of two major mining disasters in 1913 and 1923.
  • Attractions: Visit the Dawson Cemetery, where many of the miners are buried.
  • Activities: Walk through the ruins of the town and reflect on its somber past.

9. Kelly

Kelly, a silver and lead mining town, offers a look at the boom and bust cycle of mining towns.

  • History: Established in the 1870s, Kelly was known for its rich deposits of silver and lead.
  • Attractions: See the remains of the Kelly Mine and the old smelter.
  • Activities: Hike the nearby Magdalena Mountains for stunning views and wildlife sightings.

10. Cuervo

Cuervo, a town that thrived during the Route 66 era, now stands as a ghostly reminder of the past.

  • History: Founded in the early 1900s, Cuervo grew with the rise of Route 66.
  • Attractions: Explore the abandoned buildings and the old church.
  • Activities: Drive along the historic Route 66 and imagine the town in its heyday.

Embracing the Mystique of Desert Ghost Towns

New Mexico's desert ghost towns offer a unique glimpse into the past. These abandoned places tell stories of boom-and-bust cycles, mining adventures, and the resilience of those who once called them home. Exploring towns like Chloride, Madrid, and Cerrillos reveals not just history but also the beauty of the desert landscape. Each town has its own charm, from weathered buildings to rusty relics. Visiting these sites provides a sense of adventure and a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage of the American Southwest. Whether you're a history buff, a photographer, or just someone looking for a unique experience, New Mexico's ghost towns are worth the trip. Pack your bags, grab a map, and set out to uncover the secrets of these fascinating places.