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Secrets Of New Mexico’s Caballo Mountains Ghost Towns

Published:

by Sibyl Eberhardt

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Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden in the Caballo Mountains of New Mexico? This rugged region is home to several ghost towns that once buzzed with life during the mining boom. Today, these abandoned places offer a glimpse into the past, with crumbling buildings and forgotten stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good adventure, exploring these ghost towns can be a thrilling experience. Imagine walking through deserted streets, peeking into old saloons, and feeling the echoes of a bygone era. Ready to uncover the mysteries of New Mexico's Caballo Mountains ghost towns? Let's get started!

Secrets of New Mexico's Caballo Mountains Ghost Towns

New Mexico's Caballo Mountains hold secrets of ghost towns that once thrived. These abandoned places tell stories of boom and bust, of dreams and despair. Let's uncover these hidden gems.

1. Lake Valley

Lake Valley, once a bustling silver mining town, now stands silent. Founded in 1878, it saw its peak in the 1880s with the discovery of the Bridal Chamber, one of the richest silver deposits ever found.

  • Historic Schoolhouse: The old schoolhouse still stands, offering a glimpse into the past.
  • St. Joseph's Church: This church, though weathered, remains a testament to the town's once-thriving community.
  • Mining Ruins: Scattered mining equipment and structures tell tales of the town's industrious past.

2. Hillsboro

Hillsboro, established in 1877, was a gold mining town. It survived longer than many ghost towns, thanks to its strategic location and rich resources.

  • Main Street: Walk down Main Street to see historic buildings, some still in use.
  • Black Range Museum: This museum offers artifacts and stories from Hillsboro's golden days.
  • Old Courthouse: The courthouse, built in 1892, stands as a symbol of the town's former importance.

3. Kingston

Kingston, once known as the "Paris of the West," was a silver mining boomtown. Founded in 1882, it quickly grew to a population of 7,000 before the silver market crashed.

  • Percha Bank: This historic bank building now serves as a museum.
  • Victorian Homes: Many Victorian-style homes still stand, showcasing the town's former wealth.
  • Grafton Cabin: This cabin, one of the oldest structures, offers a peek into early settler life.

4. Chloride

Chloride, founded in 1881, was a silver mining town that saw rapid growth and decline. Today, it offers a well-preserved glimpse into the past.

  • Pioneer Store Museum: This museum, housed in an old general store, is filled with artifacts from Chloride's heyday.
  • Grafton Cabin: Another Grafton Cabin, similar to Kingston's, stands here, adding to the historical charm.
  • Old Cemetery: The cemetery tells stories of the town's former residents, with gravestones dating back to the 1800s.

5. Monticello

Monticello, established in 1856, is one of the oldest settlements in the Caballo Mountains. It served as a farming and ranching community, with a rich history of Native American and Spanish influences.

  • San Ignacio Church: This adobe church, built in 1867, remains a focal point of the town.
  • Historic Plaza: The plaza, surrounded by old adobe buildings, offers a glimpse into the town's past.
  • Hot Springs: Nearby hot springs were once a popular attraction for settlers and travelers.

6. Cuchillo

Cuchillo, named after the nearby Cuchillo Negro Creek, was a stage stop and trading post. It thrived in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

  • Cuchillo Bar: This historic bar, still in operation, offers a taste of the Old West.
  • Old Post Office: The post office, now abandoned, stands as a reminder of the town's bustling past.
  • Trading Post: The trading post, once a hub of activity, now serves as a museum.

7. Engle

Engle, founded in 1879, was a railroad town that served as a supply point for nearby ranches and mines. It saw a decline with the advent of modern transportation.

  • Railroad Depot: The old depot, though abandoned, still stands as a testament to the town's former importance.
  • Engle Cemetery: The cemetery offers a somber reminder of the town's past residents.
  • Historic Homes: Several old homes, now empty, tell stories of the people who once lived there.

8. Winston

Winston, originally known as Fairview, was a silver mining town established in the 1880s. It was renamed in honor of Frank Winston, a prominent local figure.

  • Old Schoolhouse: The schoolhouse, now a museum, offers a glimpse into the town's educational past.
  • General Store: The general store, still in operation, provides a link to the town's history.
  • Mining Ruins: Scattered ruins of mining operations tell tales of the town's industrious past.

Hidden Gems of the Caballo Mountains

New Mexico's Caballo Mountains hold hidden gems waiting to be explored. The ghost towns scattered throughout this region offer a glimpse into the past, with their abandoned buildings and rich history. Each town tells a unique story, from the bustling days of mining to the quiet, eerie silence of today.

Visiting these ghost towns is like stepping back in time. The rustic charm and untouched beauty make them a must-see for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're hiking through the rugged terrain or simply soaking in the scenic views, the Caballo Mountains provide an unforgettable experience.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and set out on an adventure to uncover the secrets of New Mexico's ghost towns. You won't be disappointed by the mystery and beauty that await.