Secrets Of New Mexico’s Ghost Towns In The Jicarilla Mountains
Have you ever wondered what secrets lie hidden in New Mexico's ghost towns? The Jicarilla Mountains hold many stories waiting to be told. These abandoned places once buzzed with life during the gold rush but now stand silent, offering a glimpse into the past. Walking through these ghost towns, you can almost hear echoes of miners' picks and the chatter of townsfolk. Each building, now weathered and worn, has its own tale. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good mystery, exploring these ghost towns is like stepping into a time machine. Ready to uncover the secrets of New Mexico's ghost towns? Let's go!
Hidden Gems of the Jicarilla Mountains
New Mexico's Jicarilla Mountains hold secrets of ghost towns that once thrived. These places, now abandoned, offer a glimpse into the past. Each town has its own story, waiting to be uncovered.
1. Elizabethtown
Elizabethtown, founded in 1866, was the first incorporated town in New Mexico. Gold brought miners, but the boom didn't last. Today, remnants of buildings and a cemetery tell tales of its brief glory.
2. Dawson
Dawson was a bustling coal mining town in the early 1900s. Tragedy struck with two mining disasters, leading to its decline. Visitors can find the cemetery with rows of white crosses marking the graves of miners.
3. Chloride
Chloride started as a silver mining town in 1881. It thrived for a decade before the silver market crashed. Now, it's a ghost town with preserved buildings, including the Pioneer Store Museum, offering a peek into its past.
4. Mogollon
Mogollon, once a gold and silver mining hub, is now a ghost town with a few residents. Its well-preserved structures, like the old schoolhouse and the Silver Creek Inn, make it a fascinating place to explore.
5. Shakespeare
Shakespeare, named after the famous playwright, was a silver mining town. It saw its share of outlaws and gunfights. Today, guided tours take visitors through restored buildings, sharing stories of its wild past.
6. Steins
Steins was a railroad town that thrived in the late 1800s. Abandoned after the railroad moved, it now stands as a ghost town. Visitors can explore the ruins and imagine life during its heyday.
7. Lake Valley
Lake Valley, founded in 1878, was known for its rich silver deposits. The town declined after a fire and the silver market crash. Today, visitors can see the old schoolhouse and other structures that remain.
8. Golden
Golden, established during the gold rush of the late 1800s, was New Mexico's first gold mining district. The town dwindled after the gold ran out. Now, the old church and a few buildings stand as reminders of its past.
9. Kingston
Kingston was once the largest town in New Mexico, thanks to its silver mines. It boasted hotels, saloons, and even an opera house. Today, it's a quiet ghost town with a few remaining buildings and a rich history.
10. White Oaks
White Oaks, a gold mining town, attracted many during its peak. It had a newspaper, opera house, and several businesses. Now, it's a ghost town with a few preserved buildings and a cemetery that tells its story.
Hidden Gems Await
New Mexico's ghost towns in the Jicarilla Mountains offer a unique glimpse into the past. Exploring these abandoned places reveals stories of miners, settlers, and dreamers who once called these towns home. Each location, from Dawson to Elizabethtown, has its own charm and history. Walking through these historic sites, you can almost hear the echoes of the past.
These ghost towns are not just relics; they are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a history buff, an adventurer, or just curious, the Jicarilla Mountains have something special. Pack your bags, grab a map, and set out on an adventure to uncover the secrets of New Mexico's ghost towns. You won't be disappointed.
