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Secrets Of New Mexico’s Ghost Gold Camps Mogollon Mountains

Published:

by Sidoney Earls

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Have you ever wondered about the hidden treasures of New Mexico's ghost gold camps in the Mogollon Mountains? These abandoned mining towns offer a glimpse into the past, where fortune seekers once flocked in search of gold. Imagine walking through deserted streets, exploring old buildings, and feeling the eerie silence that now fills these once-bustling places. The Mogollon Mountains hold stories of boom and bust, adventure, and mystery. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good ghost story, these ghost towns provide a unique adventure. Ready to step back in time and uncover the secrets of these forgotten places?

Secrets of New Mexico's Ghost Gold Camps Mogollon Mountains

New Mexico's Mogollon Mountains hide secrets of old gold camps. These ghost towns, once bustling with miners, now stand as eerie reminders of the past. Let's uncover some of these mysterious places.

1. Mogollon

Mogollon, once a thriving mining town, now whispers tales of its golden past. Nestled in the mountains, it offers a glimpse into the lives of those who sought fortune here.

  • Silver Creek Inn: This historic inn, still in operation, gives visitors a taste of the old days.
  • Bunkhouse: The old bunkhouse, now a museum, showcases artifacts from the mining era.
  • Old Mines: Explore the remnants of the mines that once produced vast amounts of gold and silver.

2. Glenwood

Glenwood, a gateway to the Mogollon Mountains, was once a bustling supply town for miners. Today, it serves as a serene spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

  • Catwalk Recreation Area: Walk along the historic catwalk, originally built to transport water to the mines.
  • Glenwood Ghost Town: Wander through the remains of old buildings and imagine life during the gold rush.
  • Whitewater Canyon: A beautiful canyon offering hiking trails and stunning views.

3. Alma

Alma, a small town with a rich history, played a significant role during the gold rush. Its quiet streets now echo with the stories of its past.

  • Alma Cemetery: Visit the cemetery where many miners were laid to rest.
  • Old Alma Schoolhouse: This preserved schoolhouse offers a peek into the education system of the time.
  • Mining Ruins: Scattered around the town, these ruins tell the tale of Alma's mining heritage.

4. Chloride

Chloride, once a bustling mining town, now stands as a ghostly reminder of its former glory. Its well-preserved buildings offer a unique window into the past.

  • Pioneer Store Museum: This museum, housed in an old general store, showcases artifacts from Chloride's heyday.
  • Grafton Cabin: A restored miner's cabin that provides insight into the daily life of a miner.
  • Chloride Bank: The old bank building, still standing, tells the story of the town's financial history.

5. Kingston

Kingston, once one of the largest towns in the area, now lies in ruins. Its history is rich with tales of fortune and hardship.

  • Percha Bank Museum: This museum, located in the old bank building, offers a glimpse into Kingston's past.
  • Victorian Homes: Several well-preserved Victorian homes still stand, showcasing the town's former wealth.
  • Kingston Cemetery: Wander through the cemetery and read the headstones of those who lived and died during the gold rush.

6. Hillsboro

Hillsboro, a town that survived the boom and bust of the gold rush, still retains much of its historic charm. Its streets are lined with buildings that tell the story of its past.

  • Black Range Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from Hillsboro's mining days.
  • Old Courthouse: The historic courthouse, now a museum, offers a glimpse into the town's legal history.
  • Hillsboro Cemetery: Visit the cemetery to see the final resting place of many of the town's early residents.

7. Lake Valley

Lake Valley, once a thriving mining town, now stands as a ghostly reminder of its past. Its well-preserved buildings offer a unique window into the life of a mining town.

  • Lake Valley Historic Townsite: Explore the remains of the town, including the old schoolhouse and church.
  • Old Mines: Visit the remnants of the mines that once produced vast amounts of silver.
  • Lake Valley Cemetery: Wander through the cemetery and read the headstones of those who lived and died during the town's heyday.

8. Pinos Altos

Pinos Altos, a town with a rich history, played a significant role during the gold rush. Its quiet streets now echo with the stories of its past.

  • Pinos Altos Opera House: This historic opera house still hosts performances and offers a glimpse into the town's cultural past.
  • Hearst Church: A beautifully preserved church that stands as a testament to the town's history.
  • Pinos Altos Museum: Housed in an old schoolhouse, this museum showcases artifacts from the town's mining days.

9. Shakespeare

Shakespeare, a ghost town with a colorful past, offers a unique glimpse into the life of a mining town. Its well-preserved buildings tell the story of its rise and fall.

  • Shakespeare Ghost Town Tours: Take a guided tour of the town and learn about its history.
  • Old Mines: Explore the remnants of the mines that once produced vast amounts of silver.
  • Shakespeare Cemetery: Visit the cemetery to see the final resting place of many of the town's early residents.

10. Steins

Steins, once a bustling railroad town, now stands as a ghostly reminder of its past. Its well-preserved buildings offer a unique window into the life of a mining town.

  • Steins Railroad Ghost Town: Take a guided tour of the town and learn about its history.
  • Old Mines: Visit the remnants of the mines that once produced vast amounts of silver.
  • Steins Cemetery: Wander through the cemetery and read the headstones of those who lived and died during the town's heyday.

Discovering New Mexico's Hidden Gems

Exploring New Mexico's ghost gold camps in the Mogollon Mountains offers a unique glimpse into the past. These abandoned sites, rich in history, tell stories of boom and bust, adventure, and hardship. Walking through places like Mogollon, you can almost hear the echoes of miners and see the remnants of a once-thriving community. Each camp has its own charm, from the preserved buildings to the artifacts left behind.

Visiting these ghost towns isn't just about history; it's about experiencing the rugged beauty of the Mogollon Mountains. The stunning landscapes, combined with the eerie silence of abandoned camps, create an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for something different, New Mexico's ghost gold camps offer a fascinating journey into the past. Pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and uncover these hidden gems.