DISCOVER SOCORRO and Surrounding Areas

Home , Butch Cassidy, Elfego Baca, Gila Wilderness, Ladron Peak, Magdalena Mountains, Plains of San Agustin

El Defensor Chieftain 2019 DISCOVER SOCORRO and surrounding areas

City of Socorro Rodeo Arena & Sports Complex

New Mexico Tech

Trinity Site

BOSQUE DEL APACHE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

VERY LARGE ARRAY

SEVILLETA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

SAN MIGUEL MISSION

Historic MAGDALENA

Magdalena Ridge Observatory

Enchanted Skies

Historical Museums

Outdoor Adventures

Live Music • Art Galleries DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

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El Defensor Chieftain Cover Design by Pat Chavez 2019 DISCOVER Cover Photograph by Colleen Gino SOCORRO and surrounding areas Discover Socorro is a

City of Socorro Rodeo Arena & Sports Complex copyrighted publication New Mexico Tech of El Defensor Chieftain, Trinity Site BOSQUE DEL APACHE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE a part of Number Nine Media. VERY LARGE ARRAY

SEVILLETA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

SAN MIGUEL MISSION

Historic MAGDALENA Magdalena Ridge Observatory El Defensor Enchanted Skies

Historical Museums

Outdoor Adventures SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Live Music • Art Galleries Chieftain

John Larson, Senior Staff Writer DISCOVER SOCORRO Welcome to Socorro 4-7 [email protected] A Rich History 12-14 Catron County 46 Greg Byrd, Sports Editor Magdalena 8-9 [email protected] Socorro County Communities 17,36,37 Alamo Navajo Reservation 42 Stephanie McFadden, Advertising Sales [email protected] HERITAGE San Miguel Mission 15 Salinas Pueblo Missions 40 Denise Ortega, Customer Service Expert Hammel Museum 35 [email protected] Fort Craig 32 Geronimo Springs Museum 40 Ghost Town of Kelly 38

OUTDOOR RECREATION City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex 22-23 Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge 26-29 Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge 30 Outdoor Adventures 44-45 New Mexico Tech Golf Course 21

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Performing Arts Series 21 Art Galleries 43 Live Music 41 Garcia Opera House 33

SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Contact us at Mineral Museum 20 200 Winkler St., Socorro NM 87801 New Mexico Tech 18 Very Large Array 17 Telephone: 575-835-0520 3 Fax: 575-835-1837 Trinity Site 31 www.dchieftain.com Exploring Dark Skies 39 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain

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El Defensor Chieftain Adventure begins in Socorro County elcome to Socorro of 800, the rodeo arena has a full County, known schedule of events this year. for its friendly Many community events are Wspirit, incred- centered at the plaza, including the ible bird watching opportunities, community music parties such as world-class science and technology SocorroFest, car shows, the annual developments, fascinating cultural Christmas luminaria arts stroll, sev- attractions and year-round outdoor eral parade routes and the Socorro SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE recreation. From the mountains, to County Farmer’s Market. the desert, to the river valley — a Looking west, one finds a history diverse landscape offers everyone of mining and ranching as well as something to love. modern technological marvels. Socorro is a close-knit but wel- Visitors return to Magdalena each coming community. People here are year to celebrate the village’s glory never in too much of a hurry to stop days as a cattle railhead, just a few and chat for a moment, and always miles away on a 10,600-foot ridge have a smile and a wave – even for Photo submitted| El Defensor Chieftain in the Magdalena Mountains stands those they don’t know. Some fami- a state-of-the-art, rapid-response lies have been here for hundreds of ies, a historic mission church and 2.4-meter optical telescope — the years and some for only a few, but government buildings — bringing a Magdalena Ridge Observatory. The they all are willing to stop and lis- focus to the area rarely found in the MRO is joined on South Baldy by world today. ten. the Magdalena Ridge Observatory 5 The city boasts an active village It is now home to a new rodeo Interferometer, which will eventually plaza surrounded by shops, eater- arena at the City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex. With seating n See Adventure Page 6

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1439226-01 0001440355-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Adventure from page 5 combine 10 smaller domed telescopes. to attend the annual Festival of the When complete, the 10 telescopes of Cranes at Bosque del Apache National MROI will be arrayed in a Y-shape Wildlife Refuge. Sevilleta National and is expected to achieve a resolu- Wildlife Refuge also provides many tion 100 times greater than the Hubble birding and wildlife opportunities. Telescope on distant objects. Hundreds more come to visit ruins A few more miles west on the of the 165-year-old Fort Craig, one Plains of San Agustin lies the impres- of the most important Civil War-era sive National Radio Astronomy Union forts in the West. Observatory’s Karl P. Jansky Very Socorro is a place to get away from Large Array. The self-guided tour and the big city hustle yet still participate gift shop is popular with visitors. in a variety of community activities While much of the county is — everything is here. Whatever your rural, it also plays host to one of the mood, there is a place in the county to nation’s premier research universities, John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain satisfy your hankering. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Whether you feel like hiking in the golfers of all levels. Technology. mountains or sitting in a tavern listen- Flowing through the heart of The campus is also home to the ing to the blues, we have it. You can Socorro County, the Rio Grande is the New Mexico Bureau of Geology and go places to hang out with people, to center of the agricultural community Mineral Resources, where a state-of- enrich your mind or be alone with and also affords numerous opportuni- the-art mineral museum attracts visi- nature. It’s a free and open county, ties for nature lovers to explore unique tors from around the world. But sci- uncrowded and friendly. environments. Tens of thousands of ence and technology are not the only We offer this guide as a gateway to visitors come to see the two wild- draws to the New Mexico Tech cam- your Socorro County adventure. pus; the 18-hole golf course attracts life refuges in the county — many

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El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain

NewMexico Tech OLDSAN MIGUEL Performing Arts Series MISSION Oneofthe oldestCatholicChurches in theUnitedStates —founded 1598 MissionStatement: We strive to bringpeopleclosertoGod

Church builtbetween 1615-1621

403ElCaminoReal Socorro,NM87801 Phone:(575) 835-2891 Fax: (575)835-1620 Email: [email protected] www.sdc.org/~smiguel/ 1439511-01 nmtpas.org facebook.com/NMTPAS (575)835-5688 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

Photo submitted | El Defensor Chieftain Magdalena: A bustling Old West Town

he combination of a grow- frontier families that lived in the area. ing art scene, star gazing Cattle rustling, shootouts on Main events and western culture Street and barroom brawls are part of Tare making Magdalena a the town’s legendary history. In fact, destination spot for visitors. Several WS Ranch manager Capt. William fine art galleries in this mountain vil- French relates that Butch Cassidy and lage bring art lovers back every year. the Sundance Kid once worked at La Posada Art Gallery and Gifts on least one cattle drive into Magdalena, First Street and Hills Snyder’s “kind saying they were two of most well- of a small array” on North Main are behaved cowboys he knew. the newest additions to Magdalena’s Nicknamed “Trail’s End,” burgeoning art community, which Magdalena was the destination for includes Warehouse 110 on North cattle drives on the “Hoof Highway.” Main, Blue Canyon Gallery on The Stock Driveway was the route Highway 60, and Village Press Print used by ranchers and cowboys to Studio, which also houses an espres- drive cattle and sheep from as far so/cappuccino bar, at 500 First Street. away as Springerville, Arizona, across The 26th Annual Enchanted Skies the San Agustín Plains to the stock- Star Party, held over four days in yards in Magdalena. The driveway October, attracts star-gazers from Photo submitted | El Defensor Chieftain was used annually from 1885 when around the county. One visiting to the present day with its growing a railroad spur was built connecting astronomer was quoted as saying it reputation as a destination for amateur Magdalena to Socorro, and became a has arguably one of the darkest sites astronomers seeking dark skies. designated driveway by the Grazing in the continental US, as well as one Serving both the ranching and min- Homestead Act of 1916. The cattle of the driest. ing industries, Magdalena was once drive trail was 5 to 10 miles wide The history of Magdalena, New a bustling Old West town in the most and extended about 125 miles west Mexico, begins with the discovery traditional sense. Saloons and hotels from Springerville. In 1971, truck and of lead and zinc in the 1860s in the catered to the cowboys, miners and semis supplanted transport by train Magdalena Mountains all the way up n See Magdalena Page 9

El Defensor Chieftain Magdalena from page 8 and the last cattle drive was in 1972. Another branch of the trail extended from the sprawling WS Ranch in Alma and merged with the main trail at Datil. Cowboys could drive cattle about 10 miles a day, while herders moved their sheep about 5 miles a day, allowing them to graze along the way. Wells were SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE drilled every 10 miles to accommodate the herds. In 1919, as many as 150,000 sheep and 21,000 cattle used the trail to reach the stockyard. The original stockyards still stand intact on North Ash St. in Magdalena, although the railroad tracks have long since been removed. But Magdalena also owes its origins to the mining industry. The ghost town of Kelly, three and a half miles south of Magdalena, was once the center of mining in the area, and boasted a population of 2,000, sup- ported by the numerous mines in the Magdalena Mountains. The Kelly Mine, named after Andy Kelly when the town was not much more than a mining camp, was the most produc- tive, and its headframe still stands. Much of the town’s history is preserved at the Box Car Museum, located at the loading dock of the restored Santa Fe Railroad depot, John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain which now serves as the Magdalena Public Library. The museum collection holds photographs, memorabilia accommodations from two motels, as an Old West mining and cattle- and artifacts donated by residents as well as nicely furnished B&Bs. shipping center with the Frontier that tell the story of miners and There’s plenty to see and do Festival, held over the weekend of cowboys, as well as the homestead- within easy driving distance of Saturday and Sunday, June 1-2. The ers and Navajo natives who settled Magdalena. event features two full days of his- the area. The National Radio Astronomy torical exhibits, kids’ games, horno Many of the town’s historic build- Observatory’s Very Large Array baking, Dutch oven cooking and ings are still in use, either as private is just 19 miles west on U.S. 60. much more, including live music and homes or businesses. Unfortunately, The Alamo Navajo Indian reserva- a faux gunfight, Old West style. A fire has claimed most of the hotels, tion is a half-hour drive north on highlight would naturally be a walk bars and mercantiles that once lined Highway 169. There are numerous through Magdalena’s past in the the main thoroughfares. hiking trails and camping sites in Box Car Museum, accessed from Today, Magdalena is a quiet vil- the surrounding Cibola National the original Santa Fe Railroad load- lage of roughly 900 residents. Its Forest. Deer and elk hunters also are ing dock at the Magdalena Public history, galleries, dark skies and out- attracted to the area during hunting Library. door recreation opportunities make season. The Cibola National Forest For more information on it a popular tourist destination. Ranger Station on First Street has Magdalena, visit www.magdalena- 9 There are several eateries from information and maps. nm.com. which to choose and overnight Magdalena celebrates its history DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 El Defensor Chieftain

1439890-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Socorro County is rich with history ore than two centuries before Christopher Columbus’ fabled sojourn to the New World from Spain, Piro Indians — the southern- Mmost Pueblo tribe — inhabited nearly two Karolyn Rolston dozen villages along the Rio Grande from San Marcial Qualifying Broker Lic# 20002 to La Joya. The Piros, living in pueblos since at least the 505.850.8225|[email protected] 1200s, weren’t the only Indians to call this land home — We arethe one!! Apache Indians also inhabited much of the area that today is called the Middle Rio Grande Valley. Serving all of your needs in Socorro and Catron Counties Residential l Farm&Ranch l Land l Commercial As the Spanish explorers in the mid-16th century began to make their way north from Mexico, they followed the Rio Grande and established El Camino Real — the Royal Road into “New Spain.” As a result, they were frequent visitors at the Piro villages. Socorro got its name in 1598 from explorer Juan de Oñate, whose tired and hungry men were given food and shelter by the Piros. He renamed the Pilabo pueblo “Socorro,” which means “help” or “succor” in Spanish. In the early 1600s, Franciscan friars built missions at Socorro, Senecú, near San Marcial, and Sevilleta, near La Joya. In 1680, when the Pueblo Indians of northern New Mexico staged their revolt against the Spaniards, the people of Socorro and surrounding areas fled. The Piros did not participate in the revolt and headed south to El Paso, Texas, with the Spanish troops and settlers. When the Spaniards came back up the valley, they found that the abandoned pueblos from Senecú to Sevilleta had been pillaged by the Apaches. For the next 100 years, there were few settlers in the area. The resettlement of Socorro began in the early 1800s. In 1815, 21 families were given land grants to settle here. Socorro flourished because of the fertile farm land and grazing along the river; however, occasional attacks by the Apaches remained a constant threat. When New Mexico became a territory of the U.S. in 1848, the region saw some relief as the military established a series of forts for protection against the Apaches. In Socorro County, the Army established Fort Conrad in 1851, but found it indefensible and relocated to the newly-built Fort Craig in 1854. The Civil War made its way into New Mexico and Socorro County. On Feb. 21, 1862, Union and Confederate forces engaged in a day-long battle south of Socorro near Fort Craig — known as the Battle of Valverde. On March 30, the Confederates met stiffer resistance and lost the Battle of Glorietta near Santa Fe, which forced their retreat

1441138-01 n See Community Page 13 El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE 13 MuseuMs of sierraCountyy, NNMM

Monticello

M Winston Placita Chloride 52 142 elephantelephant ButteLake Cuchillo elephant Truth or Butte engle CoConnssequences M 51 Williamsburg Lake Valley Caballo Lake

Hillsboro 152 M Photo courtesy of Socorro Historical Society M Kingston Community M LakeValley from page 12 27 from New Mexico back to Texas. The Battle of Valverde is re-enacted every year in LakeL k Valley Socorro County, with hundreds of Civil War buffs in atten- dance both participating and watching the many demon- strations of warfare. Socorro and the surrounding area boomed after the Civil War, thanks to mining strikes — lead and zinc in the Magdalena area and silver on Socorro Peak. The railroad Chloride arrived in 1882, fueled from the vast coal fields east of San Antonio. Socorro, with her mines, mills and smelters, became the center to this diverse mining activity. In 1889, the government chose Socorro as the site for its new School of Mines (now New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, or New Mexico Tech for short), which opened in 1893. The Hillsboro glory days of mining are recalled each year in Socorro during the ’49ers celebrations, events put on by the school sponsored by to relive its early days and pay tribute to the area’s mining geroNiMo sPriNgs MuseuM history. 211 Main, Truth or Consequences. Open Mon-Sat 9-5 •Sun noon-5 Livestock, ranching and agriculture have always been 575-894-6600 geronimospringsmuseum.com integral to the fabric of the area and those who call it VeTeraNs MeMoriaL ParK &HaMiLToN MiLiTaryMuseuM home. Because the county contains two of the nation’s 996 sBroadway,Truth or Consequences. 575-894-0750 or 575-740-7111 torcveteransmemorial.com most important wildlife refuges, nature plays a key role of PioNeer sTore MuseuM life in Socorro as well. Located in Chloride. open daily.575-743-2736 pioneerstoremuseum.com The area’s rich and varied history has spawned a number BLaCKraNge MuseuM of annual celebrations that continue to grow in popularity, Located in Hillsboro. open Fri-sun 11-4. 575-895-3321 hillsboronmhistory.info many of which can be found throughout this guide. LaKe VaLLey sCHooLHouse &MuseuM 26 LakeValleyschool rd, Hillsboro. open Thur-Mon 9-4. 575-895-5603 Socorro’s Free State of Mind KiNgsToN sCHooLHouse MuseuM ca1891 This year marked the 66th anniversary of the “Free 8Water street, Kingston. open 1st &3rd sat 11-3 or by appointment. State of Socorro” — a movement, started by accident, that 575-895-5501 or 575-895 5169 n See Community Page14 Paid for in part by the City of Truth or Consequences Lodgers’ TaxFund DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

Photo courtesy of Socorro Historical Society Community from page 12 placed Socorro in the spotlight across New Mexico, and possibly not even Americans. The “Free State” referred the country. For a time, Socorro the United States. to taxes, not U.S. citizenship, although declared itself a free sovereign terri- The next issue of the Socorro it provided some long-awaited lever- tory from the State of New Mexico. Chieftain announced these findings age. In the 1950s, District Judge Charles under the headline: “Socorro May All Socorro wanted to do was Fowler began an investigation that Establish New Free State.” get the attention of lawmakers in determined the city of Socorro had The editor at the time speculated Santa Fe; little tax money was being virtually no laws -- he was quoted in this could mean Socorroans were due returned to the county. the Socorro Chieftain, stating “city a full refund of federal and state taxes Socorro gave a convincing impres- laws were indistinguishable from since 1912 statehood. Without taxes, sion of forming a sovereign republic mere scraps of paper.” there would be a dramatic drop in the by erecting a Port of Entry on U.S. A local attorney, Claron Waggoner, prices of liquor, cigarettes and auto- 85 (now I-25) and charging 25 cents and his colleague, attorney Garnett mobiles to boost Socorro’s struggling to pass through the county. Passports Burkes, continued to investigate economy. and citizenship certificates were print- Socorro’s legal status. What they He reasoned that with no taxes, ed. For one dollar, you could become found was truly intriguing. Socorro would be a “free state” in a citizen and travel the county’s high- When the Spanish Empire fell, in which to live. The term “Free State of ways for free. 1821, all Spanish lands were converted Socorro” quickly stuck as area news- This got Santa Fe’s attention. It to Mexican land grants. With state- papers picked up the story. also got the attention of the rest of the hood, the constitution provided that A phenomenon unique to Socorro country, climaxed by a three-page fea- all Mexican land grants become part was born. Over the following weeks, ture article in Life magazine in June. of the state of New Mexico. both newspapers in town — the Almost overnight, Socorro went Socorro was an exception. It seems Socorro Chieftain and the Spanish from an obscure desert town to a the Spanish “Provincia de Socorro” language El Defensor — published tourist destination. The Free State of land grant was never turned over to lengthy articles inciting the towns- Socorro lasted into 1955. Mexican authorities and omitted from people. The friendly people of Socorro the 1848 annexation to the territory Letters supporting secession from County welcome you to our part of of New Mexico. Legally, Socorro across the country were also printed. the world, whether you are here to remained a Spanish Land Grant. The people of Socorro had no enjoy the Land of Enchantment or the Therefore, the two attorneys con- intentions of seceding from the Union. sovereign Free State of Socorro. cluded Socorro County is not and They agreed they were all never was a legal part of the state of Americans and wanted to remain

El Defensor Chieftain San Miguel Mission among oldest churches in U.S. ounded 421 years ago, San Miguel Catholic Church could Frightfully claim to be one of the oldest churches in the United States. San Miguel has a unique history, recognized by the Catholic Church as the Nuestra Senora del Socorro (Our Lady of Perpetual Help) mission not long after Don Juan de Oñate led a caravan of Spanish soldiers and colonists up SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE the Jornada del Muerto, which became known as El Camino Real. The main body of the church, which is the part built between 1615 and 1626, seats about 250 people, although many more would attend services in the early Colleen Gino| El Defensor Chieftain 1880s when there were no pews and the people either stood or knelt on the floor. San Miguel Church has stood for 404 to San Miguel Mission as the mother In 1853 another wing was built unto the years at the center of the community. church of Socorro County, and it repre- church and this accommodates another The mission was abandoned dur- sents the faith and life of the Catholic 150. ing the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, and Church. Founded by two Franciscan priests because of repeated Apache raids and it San Miguel has 850 registered traveling with Oñate in 1598, the mis- was a few years before the church was parishioners and oversees the area sion now known as San Miguel Church restored, eventually being renamed to mission churches. The three day San (built over the mission’s original foun- honor the Archangel St. Michael under Miguel Fiesta will be held Friday 15 dation), gave the city of Socorro its miraculous circumstances. The church’s through Sunday, Sept. 27-29. name. Since it was first built in 1615, priest, Father John Anasiudu, refers

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Home Base for your adventures in Central New Mexico

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain San Antonio: Birthplace

317 Eaton Ave, Socorro, NM •575.835.2858 of Conrad Hilton www.doscasitasensocorro.com eferred to by many as the gateway to the

1439284-01 Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge and by others as the home of the world’s great- Rest green chile cheeseburgers, San Antonio, New Mexico has achieved certain renown worldwide. A quiet farming and ranching community 10 miles south of Socorro, San Antonio is transformed every fall into a birder’s paradise with the annual arrival of hundreds of flocks of sandhill cranes and thousands of snow geese Ourpet-friendlydiscount hotelin at the National Wildlife Refuge. During the third week in Socorroisideallylocatednearmany November, visitors from every continent flock to the area pointsofinterest,suchas: for a week-long tribute to birds of every feather, nesting in • BosquedelApacheNational hotels, motels, bed and breakfast establishments and guest- WildlifeRefuge houses for miles around. • OldSanMiguelMission One of San Antonio’s most successful businesses have • TrinitySite been open at least as long as the refuge, if not longer, and although they draw their fair share of eco-tourists, it’s gastro-tourism that has really put them in the international map. Since the 1940s, when J. Robert Oppenheimer and other physicists working on the Manhattan Project at the nearby Trinity Site on White Sands Proving Grounds stopped at the Owl Café for meals and a cold beer, San Antonio has been known as the go-to place for a world-class green chile cheeseburger. For decades, hungry travelers in the know have planned their itineraries to arrive at the Owl in San Antonio just in time for lunch or dinner. San Antonio is the birthplace of Conrad Hilton, one of 713CaliforniaSt.NW New Mexico’s earliest legislators and founder of the Hilton Socorro,NM 87801 Hotel empire. Hilton was one of the original legislators in 575.835.1500 the newly formed state of New Mexico.

El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array he Karl G. Jansky Very Foster, as well as “2010: The Year tory, technology, and scientific Large Array – com- We Make Contact”, “Independence accomplishments of the VLA and monly referred to as the Day” and “Armageddon” among enjoy the spectacle of the antennas TVLA – is the world’s others. Thousands of tourists from and facilities of this unique site that most famous radio telescope, an dozens of countries make the VLA continues its decades-long service at iconic sight of 27 giant dish anten- a travel destination every year. the frontier of science, blazing new nas rising spectacularly from the The VLA was dedicated in 1980 trails of human knowledge. high desert of the Plains of San and provided new and unmatched The Visitor Center features an Agustin west of Magdalena. research capabilities to the world’s award-winning film narrated by For almost four decades, the astronomers. In 2012, the National Jodie Foster, plus exhibits describ- VLA has been a premier tool for Radio Astronomy Observatory ing radio astronomy and the VLA. researchers from around the world (NRAO) completed a decade-long A self-guided walking-tour path who seek to advance our under- upgrade project that completely features large, informative signs and standing of the Universe. Scientists transformed the VLA, turning it takes you to the base of one of the have used the VLA to make land- into an advanced technological giant dish antennas. The path also mark discoveries across the entire marvel with vastly more powerful leads to a unique, walk-through sun- range of astronomical specialties, research capabilities. dial that incorporates elements of and its many scientific contribu- The 230-ton antennas, as much radio astronomy and astronomical tions are found throughout modern as 22 miles distant from each other history. Leashed pets are welcome astronomy textbooks. in its widest configuration, all along the walking tour path. In addition to its scientific impor- work together as a single scientific The VLA is 45 miles west of tance, the VLA has captured the instrument, able to make previ- Socorro on Highway 60. Signs mark imagination of filmmakers, photog- ously impossible discoveries. The the route to the Visitor Center. The raphers, artists, and writers. Images VLA is helping scientists address VLA is open daily from 8:30 a.m. of the VLA regularly appear in fea- some of the greatest challenges of until sunset. The VLA Gift Shop is ture films, documentaries, commer- 21st-Century astrophysics, including open from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. daily cials, magazines, newspapers, and deciphering the origins of stars and except on Thanksgiving, Christmas advertisements around the globe. planets, the formation of the earliest Eve, Christmas Day, and New Years This is the iconic installation galaxies in the young Universe, and Eve. used for backdrops in the movies. the still-unknown nature of Dark For more information, call the 17 It was the setting for much of the Matter and Dark Energy. VLA Visitor Center at (575) 835- 1997 film “Contact” starring Jodie Visitors can learn about the his- 7410, or visit www.nrao.edu. DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 New Mexico Tech is “MIT of the Southwest” eralded as one of the premier research universities Hin the U.S., New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, referred to locally as New Mexico Tech, was founded in 1889 as the New Mexico School of Mines. As the largest employer in the county, it is an important economic cornerstone to the area in addition to being a pro- vider of world-class education. Although the student body hov- ers at around 2,000, graduate and undergraduate degrees are offered in biology, engineering, math, physics, astronomy, computer science, earth sciences, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and more. A new building devoted solely to chem- istry – named after retired school President Daniel Lopez – opened for classes and research in 2017. Sometimes referred to, in jest, as a “research institution with a university attached,” the university has more than a dozen research divisions that allow for ground-breaking science to be conducted, rivaling research at Photo submitted | El Defensor Chieftain much larger universities. New Mexico have made several trips to Socorro. In The Performing Arts Series at Tech Tech also has been referred to as the 2017, the peaks and valleys surround- brings musicians and artists from “MIT of the Southwest.” ing ‘M’ Mountain was chosen for the around the world to the Macey Center, The Magdalena Ridge Observatory filming of the Warner Bros. block- where more than a dozen shows are and Interferometer on South buster movie 12 Strong because of its performed each year for students and Baldy Mountain in the Magdalena resemblance to the rugged terrain of the public at large. Mountains provide cutting edge Afghanistan. Tech’s year-round swimming pool astronomical research opportunities. New Mexico Tech is well known and full-featured gym are available Langmuir Lightning Lab, also on among scientists, engineers and cor- to students and faculty. The uni- South Baldy, is a world-class facility porations, and that reputation gives versity’s outdoor facilities include a for studying thunderstorms and other Tech graduates an advantage in the rock-climbing wall, tennis courts and atmospheric phenomena. job market, often with higher-paying intramural fields. The largest research division at salaries. A finding released by the Tech also offers classes to the gen- New Mexico Tech is the Energetic U.S. Department of Education showed eral public through its Community Materials Research and Testing that four year graduates of the uni- College program. Offerings include, Center, which also conducts anti- versity earn an average salary higher but are not limited to: fine arts such terrorism training and land mine than all other institutions of higher as photography, ceramics, woodwork- detection. Socorro residents are accus- learning in New Mexico. ing, glass and metal arts; fitness class- tomed to earthshaking explosions and While education and research are es like zumba-aquatic and aerobics; deep booms coming from the center’s top-notch at Tech, other opportunities martial arts classes in karate, taijutsu, 40-square-mile field laboratory sur- for students and community members kung fu and tai chi; and dance classes rounding ‘M’ Mountain. EMRTC has exist in abundance. The school has for country-western as well as belly the ability to conduct tests involving more than 40 clubs and organiza- dancing. over 20,000 pounds of explosives. tions catering to such interests as rock To find out more about New EMRTC was also been a favor- climbing, caving, skiing, off-road Mexico Tech, visit www.nmt.edu. ite setting for the television series cycling, dancing, rugby, storm chasing “Mythbusters,” whose hosts and crew and more. El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE 19

WHY STEM? Employment in STEM occupationsgrew much faster than employment in non-STEM occupations over the last decade, Science and are projectedtogrow by 8.9percent from 2014 to 2024, compared to 6.4 percent growth for non-STEM occupations. echnologSTEMSTEyM workerso command higher wages, 29 percent more. T Nearly three-quarters of STEM workers have at least acollegedegree.

STEM degree holders enjoyhigher earnings. engineerinA SSTEMTgEM degree holder can expect earnings of 12 percent over non-STEM degree holders. WHY TECH? MaTh CollegeFactual 2018 Ratings TECH is ranked No.1nationwide amongall universities in Engineering and Physics when it comes to the best colleges for the money or best value.

TECH is also No.1in Chemical Engineeringand Mechanical Engineering Top2% among all universities in Computer Science and in the Top2% in Physical Sciences.

TECH is in the Top1% nationally in Mathematics, Top2% in Mathematicsand Statistics, Top2% in Computer and InformationSciences, and Top5% in Electrical Engineering.

PayScale.com 2018 Ratings Payscale.com ranks TECH No.9among nearly 1,000 public universities on return on investment by annual percentage, No.6forstudents who live off ccampuampuss.

TradiTion. innovaTion.World-Class EduCaTion. 801 Leroy Place•Socorro NM 87801 nmt edu •nmt.edu/prospective-students

0001439887-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Mineral Museum is community’s hidden gem ocorro has a treasure chest sales are used to purchase new materi- at the corner of Bullock als for the museum. Avenue and Leroy Place, In addition to the display gallery, Sbut it’s not filled with the the Mineral Museum maintains a likes of pearls or jewels or gold coins. large reference collection for scientific The chest is, instead, a museum at the research. Access to the reference col- Bureau of Geology and the treasure lection can be arranged by contacting is one of the most unique collections the museum curator, mineralogist of rocks and minerals in the United Virgil Lueth. States. So rare is the collection it was One of the museum’s missions is given the honorary title “Coronado’s to help members of the general public Treasure Chest” by the New Mexico identify rocks and minerals. Cuarto-Centennial Commission in “If you find an interesting rock, 1939. Gold, silver, and precious gems, bring to me. It’s part of my job the objects of the Conquistador’s description,” Lueth said. “The muse- travels and travails, glitter on glass um serves an inspiration to people shelves next to other spectacular min- devoted to rockhounding.” eral forms. The 40th annual New Mexico The Mineral Museum in the New Mineral Symposium is scheduled for Mexico Bureau of Geology and November 9-10. This annual forum Mineral Resources’ building on the mineral exhibit. held at the Macey Center is for both New Mexico Tech campus is a rock- Historic tools and equipment used professionals and amateurs interested hounder’s dream and features more in the mining industry throughout in mineralogy. than 15,000 specimens, with a special time are displayed in the main gallery. The Bureau of Geology is located emphasis on minerals found in New Other exhibits include meteorites; fos- at the corner of Bullock Ave. and Mexico. sils; thematic displays illustrating the Leroy Place. Open Monday through Highlights include a collection mineral wealth from the Las Cruces, Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and of gold, silver and precious gems as Silver City, Bingham, Magdalena, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to well as excellent samples of the rare Golden, Dixon and Grants areas; and 3 p.m. For more information, call 575- Smithsonite from the Kelly Mine at more. 835-5490 or visit geoinfo.nmt.edu/ Magdalena and a stunning ultraviolet Visitors may also purchase par- museum/. ticular specimens. Proceeds from the

El Defensor Chieftain Performing Arts Series is diamond in the desert eemed the “coolest” program in the city of Socorro, New DMexico Tech’s Performing Arts Series brings the local community together and has something for everyone who is interested in music, theater, dance and more. The dozen shows, as well as the five free concerts, are chosen each year with a little bit of everything in interest. SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Shows are always a big hit in Socorro, with hundreds of people of all ages and from all backgrounds populat- ing the audience. And because of the wide variety of performances, more and more people from the surrounding area-Los Lunas, Belen, Truth or Consequences and Bosque Farms-are tion with music, family activates and Magdalena Schools and Alamo Navajo attending shows. a spectacular fireworks display. New School board to bring educational youth The Performing Arts Series has been Mexico Tech also supports the PAS performances and workshops to all of described as a diamond in the desert, with the Presidential Chamber Music the communities. and both performers and audience Series, hosted by violinist Willy Sucre For those looking for entertainment members agree that it brings in some who performs with string quartets, before the show, Tech Club Macey is a of the best performance variety in the piano sextets and piano quartets. social gathering opportunity held prior region. PAS is partnered with the Socorro to each show with food and drinks for PAS organizes a huge July 4 celebra- Consolidated School District, those who are 21 and older. NMT golf course is one of best courses in state estled within the beautiful full 100 yards shorter than the longest desert landscape of New hole on No. 5. At a daunting 559 yards NMexico lies a vibrant piece and its right dog-leg turn players must of green behind New Mexico Tech decide to play it safe by laying up or University. The Tech Golf Course sits shoot for the stars over a treacherous at the base of Socorro’s famous “M” patch of desert terrain. Mountain and is open year round. The course measures in at 6,668 The course is 18 holes with the yards, is a par 72 in total, carries a 71.0 front and back nine being separated rating at a slope of 129 for gentlemen, by Canyon. A driving range that can and a 69.7 rating at a slope of 125 for accommodate up to twenty golfers at a ladies. time is attached next to the clubhouse. Before or after your round the “M” A nationally regarded golf chal- Mountain Grill is the perfect place to lenge also resides at New Mexico Tech. wind down and take in the afternoon Known as the Elfego Baca Shootout, sunset. Serving mostly American style the course boast a one hole par-15 foods, a variety of beers are available throw down that begins at the top of depending on your taste. Both indoor a hill next to “M” Mountain. Golfers and covered outdoor seating is pro- begin by hitting off of a wooden T area vided. and must make their way down to town Golf Digest named the course one while maintaining awareness of where of America’s best Golf Destinations, as their ball has landed. well as one of the 10 best courses in the Known for its rolling hills and state of New Mexico. changes in elevation the course is Beginner and Intermediate golf generally considered shorter by golf classes are available on Tuesday and standards. That allows visiting players Photo submitted | El Defensor Chieftain Thursday. For more information about to work on their short and mid range rounding you. booking a round or other special events game. But do not be mistaken, com- Three of the 18 holes at New Mexico call 575-835-5335 or visit their website 21 ing to play will require your full set Tech are par fives. Starting on the front at www.nmtgolf.com. of clubs with the variety of holes sur- nine is a 457 yard challenge which is a DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

1439405-01 Staff Photo| El Defensor Chieftain Rodeo arena is city’s prominent attraction fter opening the gates in 2017 the Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex has established itself as one of the Apremier destination spots for not just local but also national competition in New Mexico. World Class Dentistry The arena boasts a 39,000 square foot soft dirt area for com- petitors to throw down and has grown in seating capacity with Right Here in Socorro an estimated 1,500 plus in their stands on the west side of the Including Implant Placement! partially covered arena. Normal concessions as well as local food trucks are available weekly for events. For visiting compet- itors there are 98 covered horse stalls, 50 designated RV parking locations, 30 of which have amp, sewer and water services. Family and Cosmetic Dentistry Free Wifi is also available. Where Quality and Patient Care Come First In 2018 the arena hosted their biggest show to date. The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) came to town to cap off the Socorro County Fair during a two day showdown in multiple events. It was the final leg of the Turquoise Circuit 200 Manzanares Ave E branch of the PRCA before the tournament finals in Prescott Socorro, NM 87801 Valley, Arizona. “Thankfully there were no hard injuries for the riders,” 575.835.3662 Brown said. “The crowd got to see some great action from www.drbeers.com these athletes in every category. I wish that I wasn’t so busy

0001440571-01 n See Rodeo Page 23 El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE 23 Rodeo from page 22 during this event and could get on a horse and give these guys a Socorro Heritage run for their money. My enjoyment during a tournament such as this makes all the hard work myself and the amazing staff here and Visitors Center worth it.” With the development and growth of the arena several young- er wranglers have been given the chance to compete nationally and further their careers roping and shooting. Socorro also hosts one of the top high school rodeo events in New Mexico. The state championship event lead to Magdalena’s Jaxson Mirabal being elected as one of four Vice Presidents of the National High School Rodeo Association. Not limited to just rodeo events, an array of other events take Residents,visitors,andtouristsareabletoobtainvaluable place in the complex. Musical acts preform before, during and after competitions. Fun things for the kids such as piglet judg- andhelpfulinformationfromourhospitableVisitorCenter. ing, face painting and rodeo clown performances offer families several things to do depending on the occasion. Off of highway 60, the rodeo arena is not the only place to enjoy entertainment in the complex. There is a convention center to the north, four large soccer fields of green to the east and a long 4K course off the beaten path for running, hiking, biking or walking. The complex’s 3rd Annual Rope For Hope tournament kicked off things in the 2019 calendar year. Roping and Barrel 217 Fisher Avenue •Socorro, NM 87801 Racing competitions take place frequently throughout the year in between professional showdowns. If you would like to make 575.835.8927 arrangements to participate in an event or look to organize one So [email protected] contact Jim Dewey Brown and his staff at 575-835-8927 or cor email them at [email protected]. ro Monday-Friday Fa 9am-5pm rm e rs M a r k e t Socorro Saturdays: 9-11am or sellout November -June•Indoors -Finley June -October •Onthe Plaza Year Alamo/Magdalena Round! Wednesdays: July -October Alamo: 1-3pm Magdalena: 4-6pm

WIC/Senior Vouchers, SNAP Accepted For Info Call 575.835.8656 Staff Photo| El Defensor Chieftain 0001439414-01 First Saturday Events Dave Farr Memorial Team Roping (taking place ﬁrst Saturday of each month): Friday, July 12 - Sunday, July 14, All Day, City of Visit Socorro Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Karl G. Jansky Array Guided Tours Karl G. Jansky Array, Datil, NM NM Territory CMSA The mission of the City of Socorro Heritage and Visitors City of Socorro Walking Tour First Saturday Star Party Saturday, July 20 - Sunday, July 21, All Day, City of New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory Socorro , NM Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex The only district in New Mexico to be named a Center is to create a publicity owned facility to preserve, Hammel Museum OPEN to the Public Lynn McKenzie Barrel Racing Clinic display, and maintain valuable items of historical scene byway, the Socorro Historical District Socorro, NM Saturday, July 27 - Sunday, July 28, Time TBA, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Science Byway is steeped in culture. The City of City of Socorro Events - March 2019: significance therefore, our heritage. This is being City of Socorro Events - August 2019: Socorro Historic Walking Tour honors this byway. Gala of Royal Horses accomplished by encouraging the locals of the area to Saturday, March 16 - Sunday, March 17, 3:00 pm, City of Bandolers CMSA bring forth historical items to add to our collection. We, at Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday, August 16 - Sunday, August 18, All Day, City of The Historic Plaza is the center of the tour which Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex the Center, Strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere NM Territory CMSA is divided into (3) historic districts: 1) San Miguel Saturday March 23 - Sunday, March 24, All Day, City of Community Yard Sale Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex where residents and visitors are able to witness and view Church District; 2) Church-McCtcheon District; Saturday, August 24, 8 am, Socorro Plaza documents of historical significance to our community and and 3) the Kittrel Park-Manzanares District. Take City of Socorro Events - April 2019: Socorro County Fair & PRCA Rodeo New Mexico High School and Junior High Rodeo Friday, August 30 - Saturday, August 31, Socorro County surrounding areas. We would also like to create a place time to walk or drive through the districts and Friday, April 5 - Sunday, April 7, All Day, City of Socorro Fair Grounds & Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex where school children are able to experience the history of drink in the rich culture and architecture. You will Socorro County Fair Parade Community Youth Fishing Derby Saturday, August 31, 10:00 am, Sedillo Park to Plaza our community and broaden their perspective of our city’s be glad you did! Saturday, April 13, 8:00 am, Econdida Lake City of Socorro Events - September: lively heritage. City of Socorro Blues Festival Saturday, April 13, 3:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Bruton Memorial Youth Rodeo Sunday, September 1, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo Socorro Bass Club Veterans Fishing Derby and Sports Complex Sunday, April 14, 8:00 am, Escondido Lake NM Territory CMSA Grand Canyon Region College Rodeo Saturday, September 14 - Sunday, September 15, All Friday, April 19 - Saturday, April 20, All Day, City of Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines M Mountain Fly-In Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, September 21, 8:00- 12:00 pm, Socorro Stay A While: Saturday April 27 - Sunday, April 28, All Day, City of Municipal Airport Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines Memorial Barrel Race City of Socorro Events - May 2019: Saturday, September 21, Afternoon, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex NM Territory CMSA Saturday, May 4 - Sunday, May 5, All Day, City of San Miguel Fiestas Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday September 27, 2019 - Sunday September 29, Cinco De Mayo Celebration 2019, Saturday, May 4, Time TBA, Socorro Plaza All Day, San Miguel Mission NMRA Membership Rodeo World Series of Team Roping Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12, All Day, City of Friday, September 27- Sunday, September 29, All Day, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Jaelyn’s Barrel Bash City of Socorro Events - October thru December Saturday, May 18, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and 2019: Sports Complex New Mexico High School Rodeo City of Socorro Events - June 2019: Date TBA, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex NM Territory CMSA SocorroFest Saturday, June 1 - Sunday, June 2, All Day, City of Friday, October 4 - Saturday, October 5, All Day, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Plaza Trudy Freeman Memorial 4D Barrel Race NMRA Finals

DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 El Defensor Chieftain First Saturday Events Dave Farr MemorFirst Saturdaialy Events T eam Roping DaSaturve Fdaarry, MemorOctoberial 12 T -eam Sunda Ropingy October 13, All Day, City First Saturday Events Dave Farr Memorial Team Roping (taking place first Saturday of each month): Friday, July 12(tFraking id-ay , Sunda placeJune 14firs -t SaturSundaday,y,y June of Juleac 17,h montAlly Dah): 14,y City of AllFr Daiday, July,y 12 -City Sunday, Jul yof 14, All Day, City of (taking place first Saturday of each month): Friday, July 12 - Sunday, July 14, All Day, City of Visit Socorro Visit Socorro VisitSocorro Rodeo and SporSocorrots Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Karl G. Jansky Array Guided Tours Karl G. Jansky Array Guided Tours Karl G. Jansky Array Guided Tours Karl G. Jansky Array, Datil, NM Karl G. Jansky Array, Datil, NM Karl G. Jansky Array, Datil, NM NM Territory CMSA NM Territory CMSA NM Territory CMSA The mission of the City of Socorro Heritage and Visitors City of Socorro Walking Tour First SaturTheThe missionda mission ofy theS taCityr ofP Socorroar tyof Heritage the and City Visitors ofCity Socorro of Socorro Walking Heritage ToSaturur day, Jul andy Firs20t SaturVi -da Sunday Ssitorstar Party y, July 21, AllSaturofCity Socorda y,Da Julro yR odeo20y, - Sunda and ofCity Spory, Jul tsy SocorrCom 21, of Allple xDa y, City of o Walking Tour First Saturday Star Party Saturday, July 20 - Sunday, July 21, All Day, City of New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory Socorro , NM Socorro RodeoNe wand Mexico T ecSporh Etscorn Obserts vaComtory Socorrople , NM x Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory Socorro , NM Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex The only district in New Mexico to be named a The only district in New Mexico to be named a Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex The only district in New Mexico to be named a Center is to create a publicity owned facility to preserve, HammelCenterCenter Museum is to create isa publicity OPEN to ownedcreate to facility the toPublica preserve, publicity owned Lyfacilitynn McK toenzieHammel preserve, BarrMuseum OPENel t oR the Publicacing ClinicLynn McK enzie Barrel Racing Clinic Hammel Museum OPEN to the Public Lynn McKenzie Barrel Racing Clinic display, and maintain valuable items of historical scene byway, the Socorro Historical District Socorrodisplaydisplay, NM, and maintain, and valuable itemaintainms of historical valuablescene byway ,ite the Socorroms Historical ofSatur historical Districtday, July Socor27ro , NM- Sunday, July 28, TSaturimesceneday, Jul yTB 27 - SundaA, bywayy, Jul Cityy 28, Time TBofA, City, ofthe Socorro Historical District Socorro, NM Saturday, July 27 - Sunday, July 28, Time TBA, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Science Byway is steeped in culture. The City of City of Socorro Events - March 2019: Science Byway is steeped in culture. The City of City of Socorro Events - March 2019: Science Byway is steeped in culture. The City of City of Socorro Events - March 2019: significance therefore, our heritage. This is being significancesignificance therefore, our herita therefore,ge. This is being our heritage. ThisCity ofis Socorr beingo Ev ents - August 2019:City of Socorr o Events - August 2019: City of Socorro Events - August 2019: Socorro Historic Walking Tour honors this byway. Gala of Royal Horses Socorro Historic Walking Tour honors this byway. Gala of Royal Horses Socorro Historic Walking Tour honors this byway. Gala of Royal Horses accomplished by encouraging the locals of the area to Saturdaaccomplishedaccomplishedy, March by encouraging16 - Sunda the locabyy,ls Mar of encouragingthe charea 17,to 3:00 pm, Citythe of loca Bandolersls of the CMS SaturareaFirstda SaturAy, Mardachy Ev16to ents- Sunda y, March 17, 3:00 pm, City of BandolersDave Farr CMS MemorA ial Team Roping Saturday, March 16 - Sunday, March 17, 3:00 pm, City of Bandolers CMSA bring forth historical items to add to our collection. We, at Socorrobringbring R forthodeo historical forthand items Spor tohistorical addts toCom our colleplection.x Weitems, at to add to ourFrid aycolle, Augusction.tSocor 16ro R odeo- Sundaand We Sports Com,pley, x at August 18,FrExtidayension, AAllugus Horset 16 Da- ExpoSunda y, Augus Cityt 18, All Daofy, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday, August 16 - Sunday, August 18, All Day, City of The Historic Plaza is the center of the tour which The Historic Plaza is the centerSocor of the rotour Rwhichodeo and Sports Complex SocorThero Rodeo and SporHistoricts Complex Plaza is the center of the tour which Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex the Center, Strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere NM Ttheerrthe Centeritor Center, Strivey CMS to formA ,an Striveopen, welcoming to atmosphere form an open, welcoming NMatmosphereCity T oferr Socorritory CMSo EventsA - July 2019: SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE NM Territory CMSA is divided into (3) historic districts: 1) San Miguel Saturday March 23 - Sunday, March 24, All Dais dividedy, City into (3) of historic districts:Community 1) San Miguel YSaturardayd Mar chSale 23 - Sunday, March 24, All Day, City of Communityis divided Yard Sale into (3) historic districts: 1) San Miguel Saturday March 23 - Sunday, March 24, All Day, City of Community Yard Sale Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex where residents and visitors are able to witness and view Church District; 2) Church-McCtcheon District; wherewhere residents andresidents visitors are able to witnessand and visitors view Church are District; able 2) Church-McCtcheon toSatur witnessda District;y, Augus andt 24, view8 am, Socorro PlazaSaturSaturChurchdaday,y, A Nugus ovembert 24, 8 2, am, All Socor Da District;y,ro City Plaza of Socorro Rodeo 2) Church-McCtcheon District; Saturday, August 24, 8 am, Socorro Plaza documents of historical significance to our community and and 3) the Kittrel Park-Manzanares District. Take City ofdocumentsdocuments Socorr of historicalo Events significance of - Apr historical to ouril community2019: and significance and 3) the Kittrel Park-Manzanares toSocorr our District.o TacommunityCountyke City(taking of SocorrplaceFair firso Evt Saturents & da- Apry ofPR il eac 2019:andh mont CAh): RodeoSocorrFrandiday, o CountyJuly 12 -F 3)Sundaair & y,PR JultheCAy 14, Rodeo All DaKittrely, City of Park-Manzanares District. Take City of Socorro Events - April 2019: Socorro County Fair & PRCA Rodeo New Mexico High School and Junior High Rodeo Friday, AugustNe w30 Mexico - High Satur School andda Juniory, High A Rugusodeo tFr 31,iday, Augus Socort 30 - Saturday,ro Augus Countyt 31, Socorro County New Mexico High School and Junior High Rodeo Friday, August 30 - Saturday, August 31, Socorro County surrounding areas. We would also like to create a place time to walk or drive through the districts and Fridaysurrounding,surrounding April 5areas. - Sunda We wouldy, also areas.Apr like ilto create7, AllWe a place Da wouldy, Citytime toof walk alsoSocor or drive rothroughlike Fa the toirdistricts Gr create oundsand &Fr idaay R, Apr odeoplaceil 5 - Sunday, andApril 7, All Spor Day, City ofts Socor Comro Fairtime Grpleounds &x Rodeo to and Spor walkts Complex or drive through the districts and Friday, April 5 - Sunday, April 7, All Day, City of Socorro Fair Grounds & Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex where school children are able to experience the history of drink in the rich culture and architecture. You will wherewhere school children school are able to experiencechildren the history are of drinkable in the richto culture experience and architecture.Socorr Yoo uCounty will the4th of Jul historyFy Pairarade Parade of Socorrdrinko County Fair Pinarade the rich culture and architecture. You will Socorro County Fair Parade Community Youth Fishing Derby Saturday, AugusCommunityt 31, Yout h10:00 Fishing Derby am, SedilloSaturand daSpor Py, Atsarugus Comkt 31,ple x t10:00 o am,Plaza Sedillo Par k to Plaza Community Youth Fishing Derby Saturday, August 31, 10:00 am, Sedillo Park to Plaza our community and broaden their perspective of our city’s be glad you did! Saturdaouroury, community Apr communityil and13, broaden 8:00 their am, perspecti Econdida andve of ourbroaden city’ Laks e be glad theiryou did! perspective ofSatur daoury, April 13, 8:00 city’ am, Econdida Lakse be glad you did! Saturday, April 13, 8:00 am, Econdida Lake City of Socorro Events - SeptemberCity: of Socorro Events - September: City of Socorro Events - September: lively heritage. City oflivelylively Socorr heritage. oheritage. Blues Festival City of Socorro Blues Festival City of Socorro Blues Festival Saturday, April 13, 3:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Bruton MemorSaturdaialy, Apr ilY 13,out 3:00 pm,h Socor Rro odeoPlaza Bruton Memorial Youth Rodeo Saturday, April 13, 3:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Bruton Memorial Youth Rodeo Sunday, SeptemberThursday, Jul y1, 4, 9:00 All am, Plaza Da to Macey,y Center City ofSundaSocor Socory,ro September Rodeo and 1, roSpor All Dats RComy, Cityodeople ofx Socorro Rodeo Sunday, September 1, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo Socorro Bass Club VeteransVisit Fishing Socorro Derby and Sports ComSocorrpleo Bassx Club Veterans Fishing Derby and Sports Complex Socorro Bass Club Veterans Fishing Derby and Sports Complex Sunday, April 14, 8:00 am, Escondido Lake NM TerritorySunda CMSy, April 14, A8:00 am, Escondido Lake NM Territory CMSA Sunday, April 14, 8:00 am, Escondido Lake NM Territory CMSA Grand Canyon Region College Rodeo Saturday, SeptemberGrand Canyon R egion14 Colleg - Sundae Rodeo y, SepSaturFetemberstdaivy,al Sepof ttemberhe Cranes 14 15, - Sunda y,All September 15, All Grand Canyon Region College Rodeo Saturday, September 14 - Sunday, September 15, All Friday, April 19 - Saturday, April 20, All Day, City of Day, City of SocorFrKaidrlay G., Apr Janskyilro 19 - ArrSaturRaydaodeo Guidedy, April T20,ours Alland Day, City Spor of Datsy, City Com of Socorrople Rodeo xand Sports Complex Friday, April 19 - Saturday, April 20, All Day, City of Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines M MountCapaintain Laur Fla S.y- HainesIn M Mountain Fly-In Captain Laura S. Haines M Mountain Fly-In Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, SeptemberBandoleros CMS A21, 8:00- 12:00 Saturpm,day, Sep Socortember 21, 8:00-ro 12:00 pm, Socorro Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, September 21, 8:00- 12:00 pm, Socorro Stay A While: SaturdaStayy Aay Apr While: Ail 27While: - Sunda y, April 28, All Day, City of Municipal AirSaturpor27thda Annualy tApr il 4t 27h -of Sunda July y,Celebr April ation28, All Day, City of Municipal Airport Saturday April 27 - Sunday, April 28, All Day, City of Municipal Airport Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain LaurSocora roS. Rodeo Haines and Sports Comple Memorx ialCapWe Barrtadnesdain Laury Naove S.el mberHaines R 20, Memor ace2019 -ial Satur Barrdaely NRoveacember 23, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines Memorial Barrel Race City of Socorro Events - May 2019: Saturday, SeptemberCity of Socorro Ev 21,ents - Ma Afy 2019:ter noon, CitySaturday, Sep oftember Socor 21, Afternoon,ro City of Socorro City of Socorro Events - May 2019: Saturday, September 21, Afternoon, City of Socorro Rodeo and SporKarl tsG. Jansky Com Array, Datil,ple NMx Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex NM Territory CMSA NM Territory CMSA NM Territory CMSA Saturday, May 4 - Sunday, May 5, All Day, City of San Miguel FiesSaturThursdaday,tay, Ma Julysy 4 4, - Sunda10:00 y,am Ma - 10:00y 5, All pm, Da Macey, Cityy Centerof San Miguel Fiestas Saturday, May 4 - Sunday, May 5, All Day, City of San Miguel Fiestas Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex 2019, All Day, Bosque Del Apache Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday September 27, 2019 - Sunday FrSeptemberiday September 27, 2019 - Sunda 29,y September 29, Friday September 27, 2019 - Sunday September 29, Cinco De Mayo Celebration 2019, Cinco De Mayo Celebration 2019,NM Territory CMSA Cinco De Mayo Celebration 2019, Saturday, May 4, Time TBA, Socorro Plaza All Day, San MiguelSaturday, May 4, TMissionime TBA, Socorro Plaza All Day, San Miguel Mission Saturday, May 4, Time TBA, Socorro Plaza All Day, San Miguel Mission NMRA Membership Rodeo World Series NMRAof TMembershipeam R odeoR oping World Series of Team Roping NMRA Membership Rodeo World Series of Team Roping Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12, All Day, City of Friday, SeptemberFriday, May 27-10 - Sunda Sunday, May 12, All Day,y, City Sep of temberFriday, September 29, 27- Sunda Ally, Sep temberDa 29,y, All Day, Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12, All Day, City of Friday, September 27- Sunday, September 29, All Day, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of SocorroSocor Rro Rodeoodeo and Spor andts Comple xSpor ts ComCity ofple Socorrox Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of SocorrBandolero Evos CMSentsA - October thrCity uof Socorr Decembero Events - October thru December City of Socorro Events - October thru December Jaelyn’s Barrel Bash Jaelyn’s Barrel Bash Jaelyn’s Barrel Bash Saturday, May 18, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and 2019: Saturday, May 18, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and 2019:Luminar ia & Art Stroll Saturday, May 18, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and 2019: Sports Complex SporFirstst Satur Compledaxy Star Party Saturday, July 20 - Sunday, July 21, All Day, City of Sports Complex New Mexico High School Rodeo New Mexico High School Rodeo New Mexico High School Rodeo City of Socorro Events - June 2019: City of Socorro Walking ToDateur TBA, CityCity ofof Socorr Socoro Events - Junero 2019: R odeo andDate TBSporA, City ofts Socor Comro Rodeo andple Sportsx Com plex City of Socorro Events - June 2019: Date TBA, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex NM TTheerr missionitor ofy theCMS City ofA Socorro Heritage and Visitors SocorroFest NMSatur Tdaerry,it Julory 6CMS - SundaA y, July 7, All Day, City of Socorro SocorroFest NM Territory CMSA SocorroFest Friday, October 4 - Saturday, OctoberFrSatur id5,ay,da Oct y,All oberDecember 4 - SaturDa 7, da5:00y,y, Oct pm ober - 9:00 5, pm,All Da Socory, ro Plaza Friday, October 4 - Saturday, October 5, All Day, Saturday, June 1 - Sunday, June 2, All Day, City of Saturday, June 1 - Sunday, June 2, All Day, City of Saturday, June 1 - Sunday, June 2, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Plaza Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Plaza Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Plaza Trudy Freeman Memorial 4D Barrel Race NMRA FinalsTrNe udyw Me Frexicoeman Tec Memorh Etscorialn Obser4D Barrvatoelry R Socorace ro , NM NMRASocorro F inalsRodeo and Sports Complex Trudy Freeman Memorial 4D Barrel Race NMRA Finals Friday, June 14 - Sunday, June 17, All Day City of Saturday, OctoberFrRoiddeoay, Juneand 12Spor 14 - tsSunda Com- y,Sundaple Junex 17, All Dayy City Oct of oberSaturda y,13, October All 12 - Sunda Day Octobery, 13, City All Day, City Friday, June 14 - Sunday, June 17, All Day City of Saturday, October 12 - Sunday October 13, All Day, City Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex of Socorro RodeoSocorro R odeoand and Spor Sports Complexts Compleofx Socor ro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of Socorro Events - July 2019: Extension HorseCity of Socorr Expoo Events - July 2019: Extension Horse Expo City of Socorro Events - July 2019: Extension Horse Expo Saturday, November 2, All Day, City Saturofda y,Socor November 2, Allro Da y,R Cityodeo of Socorro Rodeo Saturday, November 2, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo 4th of July Parade and Sports Com4th ofple July Pxarade andAnnual Sports Holida Compley xLight Parade 4th of July Parade and Sports Complex Thursday, July 4, 9:00 am, Plaza to Macey Center Thursday, July 4, 9:00 am, Plaza to Macey Center Thursday, July 4, 9:00 am, Plaza to Macey Center Festival of the Cranes Festival of the Cranes Festival of the Cranes 27th Annual 4th of July Celebration The only district in New MexicoWe todnesda be named ay Nove27th Annualmber 4th of Jul 20,y Celebr ation2019 - SaturWednesdaday yNove Nmberove 20, 2019mber - Saturday N ove23,mber 23, 27th Annual 4th of July Celebration Wednesday November 20, 2019 - Saturday November 23, ThursdaCentery, is Jul to createy 4, a 10:00publicity ownedam - f acility10:00 to preserve, pm, Mace y Center 2019, All Day,Thursda Bosqy, July 4,ue 10:00 amDel - 10:00 pm,Apac Macey Centerhe 2019, All Day, Bosque Del Apache Thursday, July 4, 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, Macey Center 2019, All Day, Bosque Del Apache Bandoleros CMSA Luminaria &Bandoler Artos CMSStrA oll LuSaturminarday,ia December & Art Str 7,oll 6:00 pm, Sedillo Park to Plaza Bandoleros CMSA Luminaria & Art Stroll Saturday, July 6 - Sunday, July 7, All Day, City of Socorro Saturday, DecemberSaturday, July 6 - 7,Sunda y,5:00 July 7, All Dapmy, City of- Socor9:00ro Satur pm,day, December Socor 7, 5:00 pm ro- 9:00 pm,Plaza Socorro Plaza Saturday, July 6 - Sunday, July 7, All Day, City of Socorro Saturday, December 7, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex Annual HolidaHammely Light Museum OPEN P toar the Publicade AnnualLynn McK Holidaenziey Light Barr Pelar Radeacing Clinic Annual Holiday Light Parade display, and maintain valuable items of historical scene byway, the Socorro HistoricalSatur Districtday, DecemberSocorro, NM 7, 6:00 pm, SedilloSaturSaturdaday, y, PDecember Julary 27k - 7,Sunda t6:00oy, pm, JulPlaza ySedillo 28, Time Par kTB toA, Plaza City of Saturday, December 7, 6:00 pm, Sedillo Park to Plaza Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Science Byway is steeped in culture. The City of City of Socorro Events - March 2019: significance therefore, our heritage. This is being City of Socorro Events - August 2019: Socorro Historic Walking Tour honors this byway. Gala of Royal Horses accomplished by encouraging the locals of the area to Saturday, March 16 - Sunday, March 17, 3:00 pm, City of Bandolers CMSA bring forth historical items to add to our collection. We, at Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday, August 16 - Sunday, August 18, All Day, City of The Historic Plaza is the center of the tour which Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex the Center, Strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere NM Territory CMSA is divided into (3) historic districts: 1) San Miguel Saturday March 23 - Sunday, March 24, All Day, City of Community Yard Sale Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex where residents and visitors are able to witness and view Church District; 2) Church-McCtcheon District; Saturday, August 24, 8 am, Socorro Plaza documents of historical significance to our community and and 3) the Kittrel Park-Manzanares District. Take City of Socorro Events - April 2019: Socorro County Fair & PRCA Rodeo New Mexico High School and Junior High Rodeo Friday, August 30 - Saturday, August 31, Socorro County surrounding areas. We would also like to create a place time to walk or drive through the districts and Friday, April 5 - Sunday, April 7, All Day, City of Socorro Fair Grounds & Rodeo and Sports Complex Rodeo and Sports Complex where school children are able to experience the history of drink in the rich culture and architecture. You will Socorro County Fair Parade Community Youth Fishing Derby Saturday, August 31, 10:00 am, Sedillo Park to Plaza our community and broaden their perspective of our city’s be glad you did! Saturday, April 13, 8:00 am, Econdida Lake City of Socorro Events - September: lively heritage. City of Socorro Blues Festival Saturday, April 13, 3:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Bruton Memorial Youth Rodeo Sunday, September 1, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo Socorro Bass Club Veterans Fishing Derby and Sports Complex Sunday, April 14, 8:00 am, Escondido Lake NM Territory CMSA Grand Canyon Region College Rodeo Saturday, September 14 - Sunday, September 15, All Friday, April 19 - Saturday, April 20, All Day, City of Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines M Mountain Fly-In Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, September 21, 8:00- 12:00 pm, Socorro Stay A While: Saturday April 27 - Sunday, April 28, All Day, City of Municipal Airport Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Captain Laura S. Haines Memorial Barrel Race City of Socorro Events - May 2019: Saturday, September 21, Afternoon, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex NM Territory CMSA Saturday, May 4 - Sunday, May 5, All Day, City of San Miguel Fiestas Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Friday September 27, 2019 - Sunday September 29, Cinco De Mayo Celebration 2019, Saturday, May 4, Time TBA, Socorro Plaza All Day, San Miguel Mission NMRA Membership Rodeo World Series of Team Roping Friday, May 10 - Sunday, May 12, All Day, City of Friday, September 27- Sunday, September 29, All Day, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Jaelyn’s Barrel Bash City of Socorro Events - October thru December Saturday, May 18, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo and 2019: Sports Complex New Mexico High School Rodeo City of Socorro Events - June 2019: Date TBA, City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex NM Territory CMSA SocorroFest Saturday, June 1 - Sunday, June 2, All Day, City of Friday, October 4 - Saturday, October 5, All Day, Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex Socorro Plaza Trudy Freeman Memorial 4D Barrel Race NMRA Finals Friday, June 14 - Sunday, June 17, All Day City of Saturday, October 12 - Sunday October 13, All Day, City Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex City of Socorro Events - July 2019: Extension Horse Expo Saturday, November 2, All Day, City of Socorro Rodeo 4th of July Parade and Sports Complex Thursday, July 4, 9:00 am, Plaza to Macey Center Festival of the Cranes 27th Annual 4th of July Celebration Wednesday November 20, 2019 - Saturday November 23, Thursday, July 4, 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, Macey Center 2019, All Day, Bosque Del Apache Bandoleros CMSA Luminaria & Art Stroll Saturday, July 6 - Sunday, July 7, All Day, City of Socorro Saturday, December 7, 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm, Socorro Plaza Rodeo and Sports Complex Annual Holiday Light Parade Saturday, December 7, 6:00 pm, Sedillo Park to Plaza DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain

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El Defensor Chieftain Visitors flock to Bosque del Apache Refuge here may be a national as the cranes arrive. The numbers wildlife refuge with more peak with the Festival of the Cranes. Tmigratory birds than the But a large number of visitors are Bosque del Apache National Wildlife usually around during Thanksgiving Refuge, “but I don’t know if there is weekend. one where you can see them up close And birders can be found observ- like you can here,” Refuge Manager ing the cranes until they depart in Kevin Cobble said. “The birds soar early spring. over the vehicles, and you’ve got the There are plenty of areas for visi- SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE background of the Chupaderas in the tors to view the birds from observa- distance.” tion decks to ponds and fields that It’s because of the close encoun- are accessible from the tour loops. ters that more than 100,000 visi- Volunteers who are birding enthu- tors flock to the refuge along with siasts will be on hand on the decks Sandhill cranes, the snow geese, to assist visitors with their viewing ducks and other birds for events such of the wildlife. Optic equipment is as the annual Festival of the Cranes available on the decks for use during in November each year. the festival. “There’s nothing like seeing a lot tive director of the Friends of the Other wildlife of cranes flying over the road about Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Birds are not the only wildlife 70 feet above the ground,” Cobble Refuge. visitors can see on the refuge. said. The first cranes are spotted on the “People can see bobcats, coy- refuge at the beginning of October, “It seems like the birds have got- otes and turkeys,” Cobble said. 27 ten used to having people watching and the numbers steadily build, “Mountain lions have also been spot- them,” adds Deb Caldwell, execu- Cobble said. The number of visitors also builds n See Visitors Page 28 MMountain Coffee 7am –6pm Daily 102 Plaza St, Socorro 575-838-0809 [email protected] DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Visitors from page 27 ted on tours.” Elk and mule deer may also been seen, although the elk are a little shy, refuge officials say. “We’ve also had some people spot javelinas, which is a pretty unusual sight,” Caldwell said. The Festival of the Cranes receives a lot of the attention, but refuge officials like to point out that there is plenty to see and do on the refuge throughout the year, and not just Dignity and peace of mind when the cranes call the refuge home. through the seasons of life. The refuge offers tours and hiking year-round. Auto Tour • The tour loop is (approximately) 12 miles long, bisect- ed by a two way road. What we provide Assistance with activities of 24 hour caring staff daily living: • The tour loop is open every day from one hour before clean and comfortable living environment eating dressing sunrise to one hour after sunset. large open farm with beautiful scenic views oral hygiene mobility medication assistance and monitoring bathing toileting • Unpermitted access in closed areas. This includes daily meals/snacks grooming walking, biking, or driving. Please observe posted signs. companionship • Please drive carefully on gravel roads and stay on des- emotional support ignated roads and turnouts. • Auto Tour Loop roads are wide, so pull over to allow Country Living Residential Care others to pass safely. 1495 Frontage Rd NE •Socorro NM 87801 • The speed limit is 25 mph. • Restroom facilities are available on the auto tour loop, Contact us to learn more concurrently with hours the tour loop is open. 575.520.9909 •countrylivingresidentialcare.com • Potable water is not available on the tour loop. 1439261-01 Trails • All trails are open every day from one hour before n See Visitors Page 29

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John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Visitors from page 28 sunrise to one hour after sunset. Home is where • Leashed pets are seasonally allowed on trails. During your healthcare is. any time of the year, you may have your pet securely in your vehicle. · Family Medicine (children · Audiology There are tours at the 57,217-acre refuge every weekend, through adults) · Behavioral Health · Internal Medicine · Rehabilitation Services Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Service Manager · Women’s Care (OB/GYN, · Radiology, Lab and Ultrasound Services Chris Leeser said. There are tours at the refuge Fridays, Labor and Delivery) · Community Based Programs Saturdays and Sundays in October through November. · General Surgery · Emergency Department In addition to the touring, the hiking and the festival, the · Podiatry refuge remains busy hosting school groups throughout the 1202 Highway 60 West year. (575) 835-1140 “There’s a lot of hands-on education going on,” Leeser www.phs.org/socorro said. The 1,200-member Friends of the Bosque del Apache 1439370-01 National Wildlife play a major role in helping to create the education experience not only for students in Socorro County, but around the state and region. The friends groups helps provide travel funding for students from Dora, Raton, Toas and El Paso to spend a day on the refuge. The Friends of the Bosque del Apache also raise funds for various habitat restoration and wetland projects on the refuge, which is important in an era budget cuts on both the federal and state level. “There are a lot of research projects the Friends have helped us with,” Cobble said. They’ve also raised money for various upgrades to the facilities on the refuge, including the installation of new interpretive signs along the trails and other tour sites. The Friends’ members come from every state except Idaho and Rhode Island, something that Caldwell hopes to change. And the number of members of the group might be a bit low. Included in the memberships are memberships for families and couples. The refuge is also helped by an army of volunteers, some of whom are birders who stay through the winter season. The refuge itself has a staff of 22, including some fire crew personnel who are based at the refuge, but also assist other refuges. The refuge was created in 1939 and plays a valuable role in the local economy. 1440576-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

Staff Photo| El Defensor Chieftain Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge is largest in state vidence of wildlife can views,” Kimble said. “Mesas, moun- to tour other areas of the refuge – be seen on most parts of tains and desert terrain are within especially if you join the Amigos de la Ethe 230,000-acre Sevilleta view of the visitor’s center.” Sevilleta, the refuge’s friends group. National Wildlife Refuge along with Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge The Amigos de la Sevilleta hosts over 8.5 miles of hike accessible Manager Kathy Granillo points out tours and events on the refuge during trails. The refuge – the largest wildlife that a variety of lizards can also be various times of the year. The events refuge in the state of New Mexico – seen along the trails. Interpretive pan- include horseback rides, bird and can- is home to more than 1,200 species of els line the trails, providing visitors yon hikes, as well as opportunities for plants, 251 species of birds, 89 species with information about the vegetation star, meteor and moon gazing. Tours of mammals, 15 species of amphib- on the refuge. are also offered to non-Amigos mem- ians and 51 species of reptiles. While There is also the refuge’s portion of bers a large portion of the refuge is closed San Lorenzo Canyon. It’s possible to Among the events held at the ref- to the general public as a habitat for see elk — and even bighorn sheep — uge includes the annual Butterfly the wildlife, there is still plenty for among the animal life there. Count. The refuge is one of only two visitors to explore on the refuge in The wetlands are also now open places in New Mexico where butterfly northern Socorro County. Take exit again to the public after work on the counts have been performed. 169 off of Interstate 25 and find out habitat of endangered and threatened Other standard events include the for yourself. species along the Rio Grande such as San Lorenzo Canyon Geological Trails range from a half-mile to 3.5 the Rio Grande Silvery Minnow, the Journey, the Life Givings Waters miles beginning at the visitor’s cen- Southwestern Willow Flycatcher and Wetlands guided tours, Bird ter. Those new or familiar to the area the Yellow-billed Cuckoo. Discovery and small game hunting. will have a unique experience every “The wetlands offer a wonderful Visit their website at www.fws.gov/ time they visit. Hikers walking along opportunity to see several species of refuge/sevilleta/ for more information the trail will also see different spe- birds,” said Granillo, who is also a on activities. The visitor’s center is cies of cactus in bloom, according to birding enthusiast. “People can walk open Monday through Friday from 9 Jeannine Kimble, Sevilleta Wildlife around. It’s just a few klicks north of a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment with Refuge Visitor Services manager. the Rio Saludo.” a guide. “There are also some really great There are also other opportunities

El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE

John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Visit the birth of the nuclear age at Trinity Site f you’re lucky enough to be visit- Colorado, what was to become known region’s natural background radia- ing Socorro on the first Saturday at the Trinity Site in Socorro County tion, on average. A one-hour visit to Iin April and October, you will was chosen. The area was already con- the inner fenced area will result in a have the opportunity to visit the birth of trolled by the government since it was whole body exposure of one-half to one the nuclear age; ground zero of the first part of the Alamogordo Bombing and millirem. To put this in perspective, a atomic bomb. The Trinity Site, on what Gunnery Range, which was established U.S. adult receives an average of 360 is now White Sands Missile Range in in 1942 as the U.S. Army’s artillery and millirems every year from natural and the southeastern portion of Socorro bombing practice area. The Chihuahuan medical sources. The American Nuclear County, is where the first nuclear bomb Desert provided isolation for secrecy Society estimates on average people was detonated on July 16, 1945. That and safety, but was still only about 230 receive between 26 and 96 millirems morning, at 5:29:45 a.m. Mountain miles from the Manhattan Project’s every year from the sun and about 40 War Time, the successful testing of the headquarters at Los Alamos. millirems every year from food. atomic bomb marked the beginning of Although what had taken place at Trinity Site is open twice a year to the end of World War II. Trinity Site was not revealed until after the public for a walk-through visit, on The missile range is – understand- the weapon was used against Japan, the first Saturday of April and October. ably – closed to the public, but twice a the explosion was felt 160 miles away 2018 Open House dates are April 6 and year its gates are open for the Trinity and windows were broken out as far as October 5. There is no admission fee Site’s semi-annual Open House. 120 miles away. Army officials told the for this event, and no reservations are The 51,500-acre area was declared a public that a munitions storage area had required. Visitors must have a REAL national historic landmark in 1975. The accidently exploded at the Alamogordo ID card, passport or military ID to landmark includes ground zero where Bombing Range. Many residents of enter. the bomb exploded; the base camp nearby San Antonio and Socorro still From Socorro visitors can enter where scientists and support staff were remember that morning, when the through White Sands Missile Range’s housed; the remains of one of the tower ground shook and the sky turned red. Stallion Range Center, which is five columns; and the Schmidt/McDonald A monument and various artifacts miles south of Highway 380. The turn- ranch house south of the site where the associated with the test are available for off is 12 miles east of San Antonio. core of the bomb was assembled. In viewing, such as a sample of Trinitite, The Stallion gate will be open 8 a.m. addition, one of the old instrumentation a glass-like substance left behind when to 2 p.m. Visitors arriving at the gate bunkers is still visible beside the road the sand fused together from the heat between those hours will receive hand- just west of ground zero. of the blast. Trinitite contains several outs and will be allowed to drive unes- The bomb had been three years in radioactive elements and is an alpha corted the 17 miles to Trinity Site. The the making. and beta particle emitter. road is paved and marked. 31 From a list of eight potential test sites Radiation levels at ground zero are in California, Texas, New Mexico and low — only 10 times greater than the DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Get a glimpse of life in the past at Fort Craig

ort Craig was estab- The Fort was home to Buffalo lished in 1854 and like Soldiers of the 9th Cavalry and Fother military outposts 38th and 125th Infantry, the pre- of its day was built to protect dominantly Hispanic New Mexico travel routes and settlements from Volunteers and New Mexico Indian attacks. The location was Militia, and household names like chosen to guard both El Camino Kit Carson, Rafael Chacón and Real and the Jornada del Muerto, Captain Jack Crawford. both of which were primary links The fort is famous for the Civil between the Mexican port of Vera War Battle of Valverde in 1862, Cruz and cities of Albuquerque the largest Civil War battle in and Santa Fe. New Mexico. Early on the fort was one of In 1885, with the Indian Wars the largest and most important essentially over, the fort was per- frontier forts in the West. Set in manently closed. Nine years later the rugged beauty of Socorro it was sold at auction to the only County, it was one of the eight bidder. It was later donated to the forts situated along the pri- Archeological Conservancy and mary north-south road in the Rio was transferred to the Bureau Grande Valley. of Land Management in 1981, Fort Craig played a crucial but nearly a century of looters, role in Indian campaigns and in scavengers and nature have taken the settlement of the American their toll on the site. frontier. Military excursions from What remains of the fort can Fort Craig pursued such notable be seen at the BLM-managed site, Apache leaders as Geronimo, off Exit 115 on Interstate 25. Victorio and Nana. Staff Photo| El Defensor Chieftain

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El Defensor Chieftain Garcia Opera House home to community theater uring the 1880s, the discovery of lead Dand silver in the nearby Magdalena Mountains transformed the quiet town of Socorro with a few hundred people into a thriving center of commerce and industry with a population of more than 4,000. The Garcia Opera House SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE opened on Dec. 1, 1886, with an event advertised as a “musical festival composed of 100 musicians, followed by a grand dance and supper.” Since that first spectacular extravaganza, the opera house has been the setting for a myr- iad of events. For the last twenty years, the Socorro Community Theater stages an average of two productions a year in the historical opera house, from Shakespearian plays to modern comedies and dramas. 33 Jphn Larson El Defensor Chieftain

“AMAZING!... this is aMUSTSEE!” –visitor review on tripadvisor.com Very LargeArray Visitthe amazingplace whereprofound secretsofthe universe areexplored The Very Large Array (VLA) is the most famous and powerful telescope of its kind. Its immense dishes are spread across more than ahundred square miles of desert. They gather invisible light—radio waves— naturally emitted in space.Welearn about star birth, galaxy growth, clouds of molecules that may be building blocks of life,and the incredible power of black holes. Precious information from space has traveled for billions of years to reach the VLA. From Socorro you can be there in an hour!

Go to www.nrao.edu/VisitVLA National Radio or call 575-835-7410 for Astronomy admission fees and Observatory today’shours. wpublic.nrww.nraoao.ed.eudu/VisitVLA DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Battle of Valverde recreated on banks of Rio Grande very year in February a lesser artillery to secure the river crossing. Both known chapter of New Mexico armies arrived at about the same time Ehistory is recreated on the banks and the Battle of Valverde was on. of the Rio Grande near Escondida; the After the battle, both armies scoured Battle of Valverde, pitting the Union the field, collecting their dead and Army against Confederate invaders. wounded under the white flag of truce. 157 years ago the War Between the Victory had gone to Sibley and the States had come to New Mexico. Socorro Texans, but they had lost control of the and nearby Fort Craig were in the cross- river and had not captured Fort Craig. hairs, and by the end of that year New The Sibley Brigade, now low on Mexico, Socorro County, and many of its food and supplies, began their march to citizens had entered the history books. Albuquerque and Santa Fe, stopping in In early 1862 up to 2,600 mounted Socorro on Feb. 24. That evening, they Texas soldiers under the command of fired a cannonball over the town, which Henry Hopkins Sibley stationed near Fort reportedly landed between the Plaza Bliss, Texas, crossed into New Mexico entire Sibley Brigade was on the trail. and San Miguel Church. The following waving Confederate colors. All troops camped in the area, from San morning, Union forces in the town sur- Thirty miles south of Socorro at Fort Marcial to Paraje were summoned to the rendered. Craig, the U.S. Army was preparing for fort, and overnight about 3,000 soldiers, The Confederates established a hos- their impending arrival. Col. Edward many of them New Mexico volunteers pital on what is now Sixth Street to treat Canby, commander of all Union forces under the command of Kit Carson, were the Valverde wounded, and Socorro in New Mexico, had shut down all army crammed inside the newly erected walls was occupied by the rebels for about posts except Fort Craig and Fort Union, of the frontier fort. nine weeks. However Union forces at north of Las Vegas. The men and sup- On the morning of Feb. 21, Sibley sent Fort Craig had destroyed a number of plies from those closed forts were consol- several companies of Texas Mounted Confederate supply wagons. What sup- idated primarily at Fort Craig in Socorro Rifles up teh Rio Grande to the Valverde plies remained were destroyed later at County. ford. Canby sent several companies of the Battle of Glorieta Pass and forced On Feb. 7, 1862, Canby received word Union soldiers and some New Mexico a retreat back to Texas that ended the that the Confederate Army was on the Mounted Volunteers, with a few pieces of Confederate push for military conquest move. Over the next three days, the of the West.

El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE

John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Old brewery is now home to Hammel Museum t one time, Socorro was 1893, Chieftain newspaper article Eight rooms, each numbered, tell known for producing said the brewery produced “the the history of the brewery that was Athe best beer in the state best beer made anywhere in New a flourishing business for nearly of New Mexico. The old brewery Mexico.” a century. From the main office, building stills stands at the corner Over its years of operation, where Hammel conducted business, of Vigil and Sixth streets, and now the brewery evolved into an ice to the mash room where the beer is the home of Socorro Historical plant and soda bottling plant after was made, the museum is a remark- Society and the Hammel Museum. Prohibition shut down beer produc- able piece of history. The Hammel family’s Illinois tion in 1919. The Hammel Museum has Brewing Company began operations Although electric refrigerators dedicated one of the rooms to an in the second half of the 1880s. were introduced in the 1920s, the exhibit created by Jon Spargo and Jacob Hammel emigrated from ice plant continued to prosper. The the Socorro Train Gang. The Train Munich, Bavaria in 1848. He was Hammel brothers introduced cola Gang has recreated the feel of a his- accompanied by his friend Eberhard drinks and bottled products for toric train depot and has numerous Anheuser, who started a brewery Pepsi Cola and 7-Up, as well as such artifacts and photos illustrating rail- in St. Louis. Jacob wanted to start beverages as Nesbitt and Grapette road history in Socorro County. In his own brewery across the river sodas. an upstairs room is an electric train in Illinois; the Illinois Brewing Prohibition was repealed in 1933, layout with diverse landscapes and Company in Lebanon, Illinois. The but the brewery never went back to historical sites. Hammel family eventually headed the brewing business. The museum is open the first west and re-established the Illinois In 1986, Clarence Hammel Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. Brewing Company in Socorro in the donated the brewery, to the Socorro to noon. For more information, con- early 1880s. County Historical Society. The tact the Socorro County Historical The Hammel Museum started out Historical Society has preserved the Society at 575-835-3183 or visit 35 as a beer garden and progressed into brewery as a museum, making it a www.socorrohistory.org. a successful brewery. A June 16, “must see” attraction for visitors. DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Early pioneers worked land near Rio Grande D.A.V. he history of Socorro County wouldn’t be com- Chapter24 plete without mentioning the early families and Tfarmers who broke and worked the land along the Rio Grande. In the 1820s, many settlers ventured along the river north and south of Socorro looking for good farm land. By the mid 1820s, farming settlements were cropping up along both sides of the river. Some of these settlers established farms about six miles north of Socorro. Word of the good farm land must have gotten out, because by 1831 additional families had moved to the area. The descendents of these families remain to this day in Lemitar. These early settlers named their growing village “Plaza Limitar,” derived from lemita, the berried squashbush abundant in the area at the time. Others say Lemitar is Hall andLounge OpenDaily 11 a.m.to11p.m. slang for “sticks” or “twigs.” Over the years, the spelling has changed from Limitar to Lemitarcito to the present ALLVETERANSAND PUBLIC WELCOME form, Lemitar. Regardless of the spelling, historical sourc- SatTV•Big Screens•PoolTable •Darts •Fooseball es cite 1831 as the establishment of Lemitar as a village. Music •Horseshoes•Outdoor Patioand Bar Lemitar’s population was about 400 people in the 1860s. In 1854, the county seat for Socorro County was trans- 200N.5th Street, Socorro,NM87801 575-835-0843 ferred from Socorro to Lemitar for undocumented reasons.

1439315-01 By the 1860 census, Lemitar’s 780 people outnumbered Socorro’s 523 residents, which made Lemitar the largest town in Socorro County. During this time, Lemitar was a post for the New Mexico Militia — volunteers under the approval of the American government for protecting the villages in Socorro County against marauding Apaches. The first U.S. Dragoons also quartered at Lemitar and Socorro to protect

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Wanda Moeller | El Defensor Chieftain El Defensor Chieftain SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE 37 Early from page 36 TheCapitolBar travelers along the Camino Real. When the railroad arrived in the Socorro area in 1880 Est.1896onthe Historic Plaza Lemitar farmers could quickly ship their goods to market. Anchoring the east end of the Historic Plaza This created an unexpected market in Lemitar — grapes. Lemitar quickly became one of the largest vineyards in the Capitol Bar was established in 1896 and New Mexico. By 1890, more than 100,000 grapevines were has served as Socorro’s favorite watering producing grapes for distant markets and local wineries. hole for over 120 years. It’s featured on This lucrative industry came to an end in 1895, when a Rio Grande flood devastated the area. Today, there are a few bucketlistbars.com and listed as one of the remnants of these historic vineyards. southwest’s top 20 historic bars. Stop by for In the 1950s, farmers discovered cotton grew quite well acold one and atrip through history in their silt-covered fields, and Lemitar became somewhat famous for its pure white cotton. This ended when the at Socorro’s only century-old bar! Lemitar cotton gin went out of business. The old cotton 575.835.1193 mill still stands north of the Lemitar Roadrunner Truck Stop. In 2010 the 185 year-old adobe La Sagrada Familia Catholic Church suffered irreparable damage when its west wall collapsed after a violent rainstorm. The rebuilt church was rededicated by the former Archbishop of Santa Fe, Michael J. Sheehan, in 2015. Polvadera is known for acres of good farmland 1439398-01 olvadera is a rendition of the Spanish word polvoriento or pulverdero meaning “dusty” or “pulverized dirt.” It Pis believed the name Polvadera may also be based on the name of an old Piro Indian pueblo in the area of a similar- sounding name. Pulvidero, along with Socorro and Luis Lopez are the oldest documented “New World” settlements in Socorro County. In 1680, all of the people in the Socorro region, both Spanish settlers and the Piro Indians, abandoned their homes and pueblos and fled to El Paso at the beginning of the Pueblo Revolt. Families from Belen and Tomé were the first pioneers to venture back into the region in the early 1800s. The Piros never returned and settled in the Las Cruces area. The San Lorenzo Land Grant, upon which Polvadera is built, came to an end in 1898. Upon 1912 Statehood, the private land ownerships were honored; the rest of the grant became state land. Years later, ownership of San Lorenzo Canyon was transferred to the Bureau of Land Management and land along the river given to the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District. To this day, many of the descendants of pioneer families in Polvadera believe some of their land was stolen from them and cite the Treaties of Hidalgo and Guadalupe as evidence. The region was known for grapes and wine, however constant floods down the Rio Grande periodically destroyed thousands of acres of good farmland and vineyards. Polvadera, like neighboring Lemitar, was always hard hit since so much of the farmland was only a few feet above the river level. Although the people of Polvadera seemed to always bounce back with their wines following a flood, it was Prohibition in 1920 that brought a centuries old industry in the area to an end.

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John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Ghost town of Kelly once was mining center t was once the heart of mining loaded onto cars of the Atchison, running two weeks ... the Cook lease in Socorro County. Although Topeka and Santa Fe railway and has also opened up a 4-foot shoot of Ithere’s not much left of it, Kelly, delivered to smelters in Socorro. lead and zinc carbonate ores ... The New Mexico, 3 1/2 miles south of By 1910, Kelly was one of the German company has completed the Magdalena, was once a bustling min- state’s most active mining centers. installation of the new compressor and ing town with schools, banks, grocery The Tri-Bullion company was pro- a mile of new pipe ... the Tri-Bullion stores, saloons, churches, and a clinic ducing heavily, and man named C.T. mill is running night and day ... the serving a population of well over Brown was said to be shipping about Grand Tower property is still making 2,000 residents. 2,500 tons of lead and zinc monthly good production of sulphides and will All there is to see of the town now from his lease. be milled instead of shipped. Not a are stone foundations, stone walls The high spirits in Kelly were vacant house or idle man in camp at and remnants of concrete sidewalks. dampened in May, 1910, when a the present. Many new houses have Evidence of mining operations still miner was entering Kelly Mine been erected, but still insufficient to remain above the ghost town with the through the tunnel and a rock struck supply the demand.” famous Traylor shaft headframe of him on the head, causing a deep gash By 1947 the rich ores played out the Kelly Mine still standing, with the in the front of his skull. Rushed to and the population dropped to zero. refractory, boiler and assay building an Albuquerque hospital by train, he Most of the wood frame houses and nearby. The operators of Kelly Mine died shortly after his arrival. This is structures were dismantled and labori- were at least partly responsible for significant in that over the years, from ously moved the three miles down the bringing the Atchison, Topeka and the 1890s into the 1950s, there were hill to Magdalena. Santa Fe Railroad spur to Magdalena, relatively few deaths in the mines at The zinc carbonate Smithsonite, so its ore could be brought to Socorro Kelly. Far more perished in the coal named after James Smithson, some 20 miles away by rail to be mines down at Carthage, southwest of the founder of the Smithsonian smelted. Socorro, than the hard rock mines at Institution, was later mined from tail- People started flocking to the area Kelly. ings piles by the Sherwin Williams in the early 1880s after lead, zinc, and The June 25, 1910, edition of The paint company for its distinctive green silver were found in abundance on the Chieftain newspaper contained a sum- color. slopes of the Magdalena Mountains. mary of the activity at Kelly: “The old Concrete foundations of the Ore taken from the many mine shafts Kelly mine has produced enormous Graphic Mill still exist where Hop was transferred by a special tram tonnage of carbonate ores ... the new Canyon Road splits with Kelly Road down to Magdalena where it was Graphic Mill has been completed and on the way up to the mining district.

El Defensor Chieftain Exploring the dark skies in Socorro County hen the sun goes down, the Wsky lights up. Not with streetlights, but with stars, planets, galaxies and constel- lations. The night skies over Socorro County include some of the darkest in the nation, which is the reason amateur astronomers plan vacations to take advantage the Enchanted Skies Star Party. SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE The annual Enchanted Skies Star Party in Magdalena attracts amateur astronomers from across the region and features 4 1/2 days of night sky viewing, lectures and guided visits to the Magdalena Ridge Observatory, the VLA and astronomer John Brigg’s telescope museum, the Astronomical Lyceum. The 2019 Enchanted Skies Start Party is scheduled for Oct. 22-26. Located at an elevation of 6,580 feet, Magdalena is a genuine dark sky site with regular recording of 21.6-21.8 magnitudes per square arc- second. Sky and Scope magazine says this is arguably one of the darkest sites in the continental U.S., as well as one of the driest. There are many good observational reasons why NRAO’s Very Large Array and Magdalena Ridge Observatory are located nearby. In the city of Socorro, now protected from light pollution by a state law enacted in 1999, dark sky John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain viewing is the order of business at Magdalena Ridge Observatory. The open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Etscorn Observatory on the New Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array, Guided Tours are offered the first Mexico Tech campus. Telescopes one of the world’s premier radio Saturday of each month. include a 20-inch Dobsonian inside astronomy observatories, consists For more information, call the a 15-foot dome and a Celestron 14 of 27 radio antennas in a Y-shaped observatory at 575-835-5101. on a Paramount GT-1100 mount. configuration on the Plains of San Magdalena Ridge Observatory Built in 1993, the observatory is Agustin fifty miles west of Socorro. and Interferometer, whose mis- managed by the New Mexico Tech Its impressive dishes, at 82 feet in sion includes not only astronomical Astronomy Club and is surrounded diameter, have been featured in sev- research conducted by New Mexico by earth berms to minimize light eral major motion pictures, includ- Tech but also identifying Near Earth pollution from the campus and town. ing Contact, Independence Day, Objects (asteroids), is not open to Etscorn Observatory is open to Transformers and 2010, as well as the public, except for special pro- the public on the first Saturday of a backdrop for numerous television grams and events. every month for Guided Night Sky commercials and television shows. Weekend workshops providing Stargazing, as well as at many other The VLA site and Visitor Center family-centered hands-on astronomy times during the year. are open daily from 8:30 a.m. until activities take place at various times Socorro County is home to two sunset for a self-guided walking tour during the year at Sevilleta National world class astronomical observato- 39 that takes you to a working antenna Wildlife Refuge and Bosque del ries, the National Radio Astronomy on the array. The Gift Shop is Apache National Wildlife Refuge. Observatory’s Very Large Array and DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Salinas Pueblo Missions is National Monument ocated in the far northeast cor- ritual, in the cycles of nature. was never completed. Remnants of kivas, ner of Socorro County, Gran These Pueblo Indians were a mix of used by the native people in practicing LQuivira is one of three pueblo two ancient southwestern cultural tradi- their own religion, are located nearby. ruins that make up the Salinas Pueblo tions — the Ancestral Puebloans, or Gran Quivira, also known as Las Missions, a National Monument. Anasazi, and Mogollon — whose roots Hermanas, is located about 20 miles Abo, Quarai and Gran Quivira were date back 7,000 years. south of U.S. 60 on Highway 55. A visitor home to a people who lived in stone, When the Spanish came to the area center for the Salinas Missions is located apartment-style complexes for centuries some 400 years ago, they worked to at the turn-off in Mountainair. until they abandoned the area in the Christianize the natives and had missions For more information, call 505-847- 1670s. They forged a stable agricultural built at each pueblo. At Gran Quivira two 2585 or visit www.nps.gov/sapu. society and participated, through rule and mission sites can be found, although one Just down the road is Geronimo Springs Museum ust down the road from Socorro here: hot baths, ghost towns, the lakes, Baskets made of sweetgrass are in Truth or Consequences is the Art Hop, scenic drives, galleries, rodeos, included, and two cradle boards—one JGeronimo Springs Museum. and so much more. An average of 1,000 very old, and another made only a couple The Geronimo Springs Museum has people a month from every state, as well of years ago—are on display. for over forty years been a repository of as many other countries, arrive to enjoy The museum’s “Mountain Spirit local history, displays, and educational the community. Dancer” display begins with a painting information. One of the areas of the museum show- by famed Chiricahua Apache artist Allan A showcase for Sierra County and the casing Apache history includes a life-size Hauser, followed by a drawing and a area, this entity strives to make available wax statue of Geronimo, as well as infor- sculpture by Harlyn Geronimo, as well as permanent and rotating displays which mation regarding other notable Native a “computerized” version—an excellent enhance a visit to the Southwest, as well American figures such as Victorio and example of cultural history shown in an as encouraging other ventures while Lozen. effective timeline display.

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El Defensor Chieftain Plenty of music he music scene in Socorro County rivals those of many Tsmall cities. With weekly open mics, numerous performance venues, an annual music festival and a terrific Performing Arts Series hosted by New Mexico Tech, there’s something for everyone. The local scene

• The Capitol Bar features regional SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE blues and rock bands on weekends. • Sofia’s Restaurant has performances Saturday nights and Sunday mornings, as well as an open mic every John Larson | El Defensor Chieftain Friday. Visit www.nmtpas.org. street dance on the historic plaza. The • Bodega Burger Co. has live dinner • Tech Presidential Chamber Music latter half of Saturday is filled with music on Fridays, and live bands. Series features classical performances nonstop live music, performed from two • Sofia’s Cafe also has live music on by some of New Mexico’s finest musi- outdoor stages, as well as from indoor the weekends. cians. venues around the city. • And in Magdalena, the Golden • Socorrofest is a weekend music • Tech’s Fourth of July Celebration Spur Saloon and M&M Cafe often fea- festival hosted by the city, featuring features local and regional performers. ture live music on weekends. local, regional and national acts. The • The city’s Cinco de Mayo celebra- Music year-round festival draws visitors from throughout tion features live Spanish music. • The New Mexico Tech Performing New Mexico and beyond, and features • Festival of the Cranes Arts & Arts Series (PAS) showcases well both regional bands and local musi- Crafts Fair features live music to known and up-and-coming acts from cians playing a variety of genres – from accompany the many arts and crafts all over the world. Performances take country and Latin to folk and rock. vendors. 41 place in the Macey Center on campus. Festivities begin Friday evening with a

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1439293-01 1439300-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019

Photo submitted | El Defensor Chieftain Alamo Navajo reservation covers 63,000 acres hirty miles north of Magdalena the tribes occurred. Some residents of Indian Pageant. on Highway 169 is the Alamo Alamo claim to be direct descendents of Isolation is felt to be the main TNavajo reservation, a chapter of the great “war shaman” Geronimo. drawback on the reservation. This has the Navajo Nation. Alamo’s Navajo name Sheep can be spotted grazing in impacted on education and socioeco- is T’iis Tsoh, after a cottonwood tree that secluded sections of the countryside, nomic conditions of the reservation and marked a spring where the Diné coming even on the north side of “Unnecessary created gaps between Alamo and the back from Fort Sumner were attracted by Ridge” — so named in a previous era main Navajo Reservation, which is situ- the flowing spring and protective isola- when it blocked access to a trading post. ated 220 miles southeast of the Navajo tion of the area. That small band settled Shepherd markers still stand atop some Nation capitol of Window Rock. Much here rather than keep walking all the way peaks. Former homes (called hogans) and of its development has come in recent to Window Rock. sweat lodges used for purification rituals decades, with the building of a modern The reservation encompasses 63,000 remain scattered on parts of the reserva- school, courthouse, healthcare clinic and acres in the northwest corner of Socorro tion. wellness center. County, an area that provides spectacu- Other evidence of the past can be Alamo is served by KABR, 1500 AM lar views of mountains, rolling hills and found in petroglyphs painted on rock bor- radio, which provides information and slanted mesas. Bordered on the south by dering the Rio Salada. Fossils millions of entertainment in both English and Navajo the Gallinas Mountains, the landscape is years old are imbedded in rock and shark to it residents. dotted with chamizal and cactus, juniper teeth have been found scattered over As a chapter of the Navajo Nation, and piñon trees. some of the land’s flat, rocky floor. Alamo is governed much like a state in Today, roughly 2,200 residents live on The Alamo people hold a celebra- the United States. Decisions affecting the reservation and many of them carry tion of their culture and customs each tribal members and Alamo’s infrastruc- on the traditions and language passed October. Alamo Indian Days are typi- ture are made by elected officials at the down from their ancestors. The blood- cally held the weekend before Columbus Chapter House — the center of the reser- lines of the people living at Alamo are Day. There’s a parade, Indian market, vation. largely mixed. The territory once roamed pow-wow, traditional Navajo singing and For more information on Alamo, call by the Apache and settled by the Navajo drumming and dancing, lots of comfort the Chapter House at 575-854-2686. overlapped and intermarriage between food, arts and crafts and the Miss Alamo

El Defensor Chieftain Socorro is home to vibrant artist community ore than a half-dozen galleries call the area home. MSome such as Vertu Fine Art Gallery on the Plaza in Socorro and Warehouse 1-10 in Magdalena feature nationally recognized artists, as well as regional and local artists. Some of the galleries feature shows and exhibitions throughout the year. Artists’ work in a variety of mediums SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE can be found in many of the galleries. Western art, Native American art, wildlife art are among the themes that can be found at galleries such as Vertu, Warehouse 1-10, Alamo Gallery and Gifts and the Socorro Framing Shop. Artist works can also be found at various times of year in businesses in Socorro, Magdalena and Pie Town in nearby Catron County. The Gatherin’ Place features an art gallery in addition to a restaurant where people can indulge on the dessert from which the town gets its name. Works by local artists can be found at the Socorro County Chamber of Commerce and El Defensor Chieftain. John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain In December, works by local artists are on display at business around the Socorro Plaza during the Luminarias, BEAR MOUNTAIN GALLERY SOCORRO PICTURE FRAMING Art Stroll and Electric Lights Parade. 902 W. 1st St., Magdalena 107 1/2 California St. 575-854-3310 575-835-3348 ALAMO GALLERY AND GIFTS www.bearmountaincoffeehouse.com www.socorropictureframing.com 1008 N. California St. Paintings, Native American arts, 575-835-2787 fiber, jewelry, ceramics and more. SUNDANCE GIFTS www.socorrocountyarts.com 118 Plaza St. A local arts cooperative with dozens BLUE CANYON GALLERY 575-835-2498 of artists showing a variety of media, Old Highway 60, 3/4 of a mile east Pottery, tile, wall hangings by and information on El Camino Real. of Magdalena Ken Merrick, Dan Brun and Maria Free workshops are offered monthly. 575-854-2953 Kenarova. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Open from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday www.bluecanyongallery.com Monday through Saturday. through Saturday. M MOUNTAIN COFFEE VERTU FINE ART GALLERY 110 Manzanares St. 113 Abeyta St. 575-838-0809 575-835-4487 A cozy little coffee house with walls www.vertuarts.com filled with drawing, painting and pho- Oils, pastels, watercolors, acrylics, tography exhibits. Hours very depend- sculpture, jewelry and notecards. Open ing on the season. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. WAR EHOUSE 110 Sundays. Vertu is also open by appoint- 110 Main St., Magdalena ment. 575-854-3253 www.warehouse110.com VILLAGE PRESS PRINT Contemporary arts and performance STUDIO space, art openings and special events. 500 First St., Magdalena 575-418-6431 www.villagepressprintstudio.com 43 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Outdoor adventures abound in Socorro County ith its serene and captivat- ing landscape Socorro, WMagdalena, San Antonio and the surrounding areas are pristine for those interested in hiking, biking and climbing. The county overall is home to more than 200 miles of established trails that beckon lovers of the outdoors through mountain forests, river valleys, can- yons and deserts. Even more options for non-motorized off-trail explora- tion are abound in the Bureau of Land Management and National forest back country. For the mountain biking enthusiast trails like Hop Canyon No. 25, Socorro Singletrack and the Chupadera Crossing Loop offer riders of all skill levels a chance to get out and test their biking skills. Hop Canyon No. 25 is a 4.2 mile singletrack that features a 124-foot ascent and a more than 2,100-foot decent located off North Baldy Peak, south of Water Canyon Campground. The trail has a good flow, is easy to follow, and is an exhilarating good time. From the top of the trail, there is a Staff Photo | El Defensor Chieftain meadow crossing and a short climb to the For additional trail guides and excur- in the road. start of the switchbacks. The switchbacks sion ideas also see the Magdalena are generally well maintained and wide Chamber of Commerce website at www. San Lorenzo Canyon enough for bicycles. The tread of the magdalenanm.com. Located 15 miles north of Socorro, trail alternates between rocks and packed For those interested in rock climbing, San Lorenzo Canyon is a popular hik- pine needles. Be mindful of the rocks, Box Canyon located on Highway 60 five ing, camping and biking destination. The there have been plenty of pinch flats and miles west of Socorro is a popular and wide channel narrows to a spectacular cut side walls on this ride. The trail gets scenic spot. The area offers primitive high-walled canyon. Interesting side can- looser as you approach the final switch- camping and parking and spots for RV’s, yons, some with springs, allow for plenty backs leading to the parking lot. and is free and open to the public year of riding and hiking opportunities. The Socorro Singletrack ascends to a pla- round. road eventually ends at a rock pour-off, teau with flowing turns and great views The small canyon offers novice and and an easy scramble up that pour-off of “M Mountain” and the Rio Grande experienced climbers several lines on affords the hiker a scenic walk farther valley. The terrain is moderate with good both the east and west faces, and fauna up the canyon that features a perennial switchbacks. The only technical chal- like big horned sheep can offer those spring that waters the sand below. lenges are occasional arroyo crossings interested in photography surreal photo- To access the canyon take the west and trail sections with loose gravel. graphic opportunities. frontage road from the Lemitar exit (mile The 11.2 mile track is typically locked For the avid hiker or climber, Socorro 156) on Interstate 25 and continue rough- during non-business hours. Unless County also offers several options. ly five miles to a well maintained dirt you are located in Socorro, the best road to access San Lorenzo Canyon via option is to take Interstate 25, Exit 152 Escondida Lake a dry, sandy track that nearly any vehicle at Escondida and then head south on This lake/park offers fishing and can navigate in good weather. the road to the trailhead. If you are in camping, RV hookups, tent sites, bath- Socorro, it may be more convenient to rooms and potable water year round. Full Ladron Peak park south of the gate and ride north 1/2 hook-up sites (sewer, water, electricity) Ladron Peak is a rugged, 9,200-foot mile to the trailhead rather than driving are $18. Non hook-up sites are $10, tent high double peaked and isolated moun- all the way around. camping $6, group picnic shelter fee $25; tain west of Bernardo. The rough and In all, Socorro County has at least 11 reservations required. long cross country rumble goes up a trails rated anywhere from a blue square From Interstate 25, take exit 152 east rocky and slippery terrain and is suit- to a black diamond to cater to bikers and continue north 1.4 miles at the bend from novice to skilled. n See Outdoor Page 45

El Defensor Chieftain Outdoor from page 46 able for experienced, strong hikers. The Polvadera Peak the top of the 7,100-foot high reddish Ladrones Mountain Range is rumored A popular destination for Socorro volcano plug located between Polvadera to have been a hiding place for bandits, hikers is the 7,200-foot high Polvadera Peak and ‘M’ Mountain. It ends with an as ladron is the Spanish word for rob- Peak located on Bureau of Land arduous run to the top, but the scenic ber. Management land northwest of Lemitar. view and eccentric new-age memo- These days the summit presents a The summit provides a pristine 360 rabilia at the summit make the effort true challenge for hikers, and those who degree view of the surrounding land- more than worthwhile. The only public elect to attempt the hike are encouraged scape including the Rio Grande Valley access is via the Socorro Singletrack to study the Ladron Peak seven minute and several nearby mountain ranges. bike trail which heads northwest from SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE quadrangle map located at the U.S. The shortest and most convenient East Road. Geological Survey site before heading route to the peak begins at a micro- out. wave tower visible from the Lemitar San Mateo Mountains To access one of the hike’s jump off exit off Interstate 25. From there head The huge and sparsely used San points exit Interstate 25 mile marker north on the west frontage road past Mateo Mountain portion of the Cibola 175 at Bernardo. Proceed southwest on Durkin Diesel to a chain link gate with National Forest is still a part of the old Highway 85 from Kiva RV Park, a yellow BLM sign. Go left through Magdalena Ranger District. While then cross the bridge over Rio Puerco. that gate onto a dirt road suitable for there are plenty of off-trail hiking Take County Road 12 west from the most high clearance two wheel drive opportunities in the region a popular locked gate, and around 22 miles later vehicles, and head north following the choice is Trial No. 43, which leads hik- take another left and proceed half a power line road. Unless you own a ers from Springtime Campground to mile to the water tank. vehicle suited for strenuous off-road use the summit of San Mateo Peak at an From there the hike to the peak is a park at the tower and proceed on foot elevation of more than 10,000 feet. steep and rigid three miles. up the arroyo and up an old jeep track The summit offers views of the sur- Again, this trail is for the experi- to a ridge just east of the actual peak. rounding ranges and valleys below. enced hiker. Springtime Campground is acces- Strawberry Peak sible from I-25 south of Socorro from 45 This is an eight to 10 mile hike to old Highway 85. and Forest Road 225.

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1439516-01 DISCOVER SOCORRO 2019 Lovers of outdoors will enjoy Catron County t’s been called New Mexico’s secret cant artificial light is 40 miles away in Art Trail and Tularosa Box north of treasure. It’s Catron County; a des- Arizona, Cosmic Campground was offi- Reserve off Highway 12. The rock art Itination for lovers of the outdoors, cially designated as an International Dark you see today is the surviving remnant offering an unparalleled experience for Skies Sanctuary in 2015. of a wealth of images created by Native hiking, camping, fishing and even big Nearby Alma was the address of the Americans over the past several thousand game hunting. With Gila National Forest renowned WS Ranch, whose hired hands years. encompassing a large part of the county, included cowboys Butch Cassidy, the The 800-acre Quemado Lake no other region in the state can come Sundance Kid and members of the Wild Recreation Area, 20 miles south of close to the clean air, dark skies and Bunch (when they weren’t robbing banks Quemado has some of the best fishing abundant wildlife that Catron County or trains). History records Cassidy and in Catron County. The recreation area offers. his gang as being well mannered when in includes the 131 acre manmade trout lake Catron County plays a large part of Alma. with two ADA fishing piers, two boat Socorro’s history, since it was a part Speaking of the 1880s, Reserve, the ramps, seven developed campgrounds, of Socorro County until 1921. From county seat, was the scene of the legend- one primitive campground, and links to the nation’s largest cattle drive to min- ary shoot-out between self-appointed more than seven miles of hiking trails. ers and gunslingers Catron’s history is Socorro Deputy Sheriff Elfego Baca and Just north of the lake is Snuffy’s Sports the embodiment of the American West. some 70 cowboys from the WS Ranch HQ and Steakhouse. There is much to see and do in this and surrounding area. It seems Elfego The community of Pie Town on e del Apa “undiscovered” corner of New Mexico, was held responsible for the death of a Highway 60 has gained national atten- squ ch from the pies of Pie Town to one of the cowboy connected with the arrest of an tion in the last few years not only for its o e best preserved ghost towns of the west, inebriated man for shooting off his pistol unique name, but also for the friendly B National WildlifeRefuge Mogollon. in a reckless manner in the street. Elfego people and, of course, pies. In spite of Mogollon, off Highway 180 south took refuge in a small house nearby, and having no gas station or motel, Pie Town of Reserve, was settled in the 1880s in over the course of two days held off the features three places for pie, The Pie-O- 20 miles south of Socorro on NM 1 support of the gold and silver mines bor- angry mob, and although several hundred Neer, Pie Town Café and The Gatherin’ dering Silver Creek Canyon, and in its bullets were fired into the structure, in Place. Every year on the second Saturday www.fws.gov/refuge/bosque_del_apache boom days boasted a population of over the end he emerged without a scratch. A in September is the Pie Town Pie Festival a 575.835.1828 1,500. Many of the original structures bronze statue of Baca commemorating which attracts hundreds of visitors and r s still stand, including the Silver Creek Inn the event stands in the heart of Reserve. has been covered by television networks e on Bed and Breakfast which was renovated The Village of Reserve – formerly and national magazines like National fug as in 1980. Frisco Plaza – boasts a population of Geographic. One visitor was quoted e for all se A few miles going east from around 300 and is the center of Catron as saying he drove all the way from Mogollon in Gila National Forest’s White County government. It has restaurants, Portland, Oregon to Pie Town just to buy Mountains is scenic Snow Lake provid- arts and crafts and the historic Uncle a New Mexican Green Chile Apple Pie. ing camping and fishing in a beautiful Bill’s Bar, which first opened in 1878. Tiny Pie Town has also long been Festival of the Cranes spot at an elevation of 7,313 feet. The Catron County Fair is held in August recognized as a popular stop for east- While you’re in the neighborhood, of every year. west travelers on Highway 60, but it November 20-23, 2019 check out The Catwalk National Scenic With trailheads accessing Gila also welcomes north-south hikers on Trail high above Whitewater Creek, a National Forest, hunting, fishing, hiking, the continental divide. The Continental Join us in supporting wildlife! challenging one mile trail along the his- camping and rock climbing are the order Divide Trail extends 3,100 miles between toric water line route from the 1890’s. of the day for many residents of, and visi- Mexico and Canada. A popular rest stop Friends of Bosque del Apache The charming mountain community tors to, Catron County. for hikers is a curiously decorated log of Glenwood is nearby with a cozy motel The Gila Wilderness was established house called the Toaster House, so-named 575.838.2120 and places to eat, drink and shop. The in 1924 as the first designated wilderness because of a dozen or so toaster hanging www.FriendsofBosquedelApache.org annual Glenwood Dutch Oven gathering in the United States. Early in the 20th from the trees and fence surrounding the is held every year where dozens of par- century, famed naturalist Aldo Leopold front gate. ticipants show off their open fire cooking recommended a new idea; the preserva- A recent addition to Catron County’s skills the way it used to be done. This tion of large areas of wild country to be western heritage is the so-called Town year the cook-off is April 8 in Glenwood set aside from the impositions of man as of Gabriella, on 128 acres between Datil Community Park and the public is invit- wilderness. The forest boasts a rich his- and Horse Springs off Highway 12 in ed. tory of the Mogollon and Apache Indians, the Tipi Ranches area. Gabriella is a re- The Cosmic Campground, 12 miles Spaniards, Mexicans, ranchers, prospec- creation of a typical Old West town, com- north of Glenwood and 25 miles south of tors and miners. Apache tribal Chiefs plete with hotel, saloon, court house and Reserve, has one of the darkest natural Mangas Coloradas, Geronimo, and storefronts, all reminiscent of classic tele- night skies on earth. Situated between Victorio; and renowned lion hunter Ben vision and movie westerns. The “town” the Gila Wilderness and the Blue Range Lilly are but a few of the personalities is the culmination of a life-long dream of Primitive Area, the Campground features from the past that have left their mark in Larry Iams, who took five years to build a basic infrastructure to support campers, the Gila. it himself with the help of a friend. At offering a 360-degree unobstructed view Ancient petroglyphs can be discov- various times throughout the year Larry of the night sky. As the nearest signifi- ered while hiking Apache Creek Rock hosts special events at the site.

0001439870-01 El Defensor Chieftain

del A osque pache B National WildlifeRefuge 20 miles south of Socorro on NM 1 www.fws.gov/refuge/bosque_del_apache a 575.835.1828 ref ons uge for all seas

Festival of the Cranes November 20-23, 2019 Join us in supporting wildlife! Friends of Bosque del Apache 575.838.2120 www.FriendsofBosquedelApache.org

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