El Defensor Chieftain 2018 DISCOVER S OCORRO 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 2 2018 DISCOVER SOCORRO 1389485-01
Welcome To Socorro
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3 SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
El Defensor Chieftain Cover design by Pat Chavez 2018 DISCOVER 2018 Discover Socorro is a copyrighted Table of Contents SOCORRO publication of El Defensor Chief- AND SURROUNDING AREAS tain, a part of Number Nine Media,
CITY OF SOCORRO RODEO ARENA & SPORTS COMPLEX DISCOVER SOCORRO NEW MEXICO TECH TRINITY SITE Magdalena...... 8-10 BOSQUE DEL APACHE NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE El Defensor VERY LARGE ARRAY A Rich History ...... 12-13 SEVILLETA NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Socorro County Communities ...... 42 SAN MIGUEL MISSION HISTORIC MAGDALENA Chieftain Catron County ...... 43 MAGDALENA RIDGE OBSERVATORY ENCHANTED SKIES HERITAGE SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE San Miguel Mission...... 16 ©2018 El Defensor Chieftain Salinas Pueblo Missions...... 16 Fort Craig ...... 29 Scott Turner Hammel Museum ...... 30 Publisher Geronimo Springs Museum ...... 45 OUTDOOR RECREATION Scott Turner, Editor City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex ...... 22 John Larson, StaffWriter New Mexico Tech Golf Course ...... 23 Jonathan Miller, SportsEditor Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge ...... 26-27 Jonathan Miller| El Defensor Chieftain Jeff Walter, AdvertisingManager Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge ...... 28 Julianna Vote, CustomerServiceExpert Outdoor Adventures ...... 38-40 Camping Under the Stars ...... 40-41 Welcome Contact us at 200 Winkler St., Socorro, NM 87801 Telephone:575-835-0520•Fax:575-835-1837•www.dchieftain.com ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT New Loma Theater...... 17 to Socorro Performing Arts Series ...... 21 FINE ART Garcia Opera House ...... 31 elcome to Socorro County, known for its friendly vertu GALLERY Art Galleries ...... 32-33 spirit, incredible bird watching opportunities, world- Live Music ...... 34 Wclass science and technology developments, fascinat- Excellence In Southwestern Fine Art ™ SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ing cultural attractions and year-round outdoor recreation. From the mountains, to the desert, to the river valley — a diverse Easy To Find On Socorro’s Historic Plaza Very Large Array ...... 14 New Mexico Tech ...... 18-19 landscape offers everyone something to love. Featuring Nationally-known Local Artists Offering Mineral Museum ...... 20 Socorro is a close-knit but welcoming community. People Contemporary Southwest Art, Sculpture, Jewelry Trinity Site ...... 35, 37 here are never in too much of a hurry to stop and chat for a Exploring Dark Skies ...... 36 moment, and always have a smile and a wave – even for those they don’t know. Some families have been here for hundreds of years and some for only a few, but they all are willing to stop and listen. The city boasts an active village plaza surrounded by shops, Melody Sears Linda Giesen Sharon Fullingim eateries, a historic mission church and government buildings pastels hand-woven tapestries bronze, limestone — bringing a focus to the area rarely found in the world today. It is now home to a new rodeo arena at the City of Socorro Rodeo and Sports Complex. With seating of 800, the rodeo arena hosted its first competitions in 2017 and has a full sched- ule of events this year. Many community events are centered at the plaza, including Socorro Hotel & Suites the community music parties such as SocorroFest, car shows, the annual Christmas luminaria arts stroll, several parade Skeeter Leard Georgette Evans Grey BEST WESTERN Socorro Hotel & Suites routes and the farmer’s market. pastels, acrylics watercolors 1100CaliforniaStreetNE,Socorro,NM87801•575.838.0556 Looking west, one finds a history of mining and ranching as [email protected] 575-835-4487 www.vertuarts.com Email: [email protected] well as modern technological marvels. Web site: bestwesternnewmexico.com While old-timers return to Magdalena each year to celebrate Selling Fine Art, Note Cards, and Gifts Online Since 1996 Each BEST WESTERN branded Hotel is independently owned and operated. 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DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Magdalena The Magdalena Hall Hotel built in 1917 and restored a few years ago is still opera- 2018 Magdalena Continued from Page 8 tional and has a café on the ground floor. Today, the Village of Magdalena is The operators of Kelly Mine were at home to roughly 900 residences. There’s he history of Magdalena, New Mexico, begins with the least partly responsible for bringing the a vibrant art scene that hosts an annual discovery of lead and zinc in the 1860s in the Magdalena Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad open studio and gallery tour the first TMountains up to the present day with its growing reputa- spur to Magdalena, so its ore could be weekend in May as well as other art and tion as a destination for professional and amateur astronomers brought to Socorro some 20 miles away cultural events at the Magdalena Public seeking dark skies and artists escaping urban areas. by rail to be smelted. Library and local galleries year-round. Its Serving both the ranching and mining industries, Magdalena Much of the town’s history is pre- history, galleries, dark skies and outdoor was once a bustling Old West town in the most traditional sense.
served at the Box Car Museum, located at recreation opportunities make it a popu- SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Saloons and hotels catered to the cowboys, miners and frontier the loading dock of the restored Santa Fe lar tourist destination. families that lived in the area. Cattle rustling, shootouts on Railroad depot, which now serves as the For the past 46 years, the village of Main Street and barroom brawls are part of the town’s legend- Magdalena Public Library. The museum Magdalena has celebrated its history as ary history. In fact, WS Ranch manager Capt. William French has undergone a recent renovation and is an Old West mining and cattle-shipping relates that Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid once worked scheduled to reopen on June 2, 2018. The center on the second weekend of July. The at least one cattle drive into Magdalena, saying they were two collection includes photographs, memo- event, Old Timers Reunion and Rodeo, of most well-behaved cowboys he knew. rabilia and artifacts donated by residents features a rodeo and street dance on Magdalena received its name when Spanish soldiers passing that tell the story of miners, cowboys Friday; a parade, barbecue cookout and through saw a rock formation resembling the face of a “Lady as well as the homesteaders and Navajo more rodeo events on Saturday; a pan- on the Mountain”. The priest they were traveling with was natives who settled the area. Many of cake breakfast and the Kelly Mine 5K reminded of a similar peak in Spain called ‘La Sierra de Maria the town’s historic buildings are still walk-run on Sunday; and arts, crafts and Magdalena.” Early settlers believed you were protected if you in use, either as private homes or busi- music throughout the weekend. passed beneath the shadow of the “lady on the Mountain”. The nesses. Unfortunately, fire has claimed The 25th Annual Enchanted Skies formation can be seen on the west side of Magdalena Mountain. most of the hotels, bars and mercantile Nicknamed “Trail’s End,” Magdalena was the destination that once lined the main thoroughfares. n See Magdalena, Page 10 John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain for cattle drives on the “Hoof Highway.” The Stock Driveway was the route used by ranchers and cowboys to drive cattle TrTruuee-BBllueue Construction LLC 14 rooms of area history, and sheep from as far away as Springerville, Arizona, across Quality Construction, Dirt Work, the San Agustín Plains to the stockyards in Magdalena. The Home &BusinessRemodeling including world-class driveway was used annually from 1885 when a railroad spur Pro-Panel Roofing &MUCHMORE!! prehistoric potterycollection, Apache,farming, ranching, mining, was built connecting Magdalena to Socorro, and became a des- Free Estimates! ignated driveway by the Grazing Homestead Act of 1916. The Call Today military, Ralph Edwards room cattle-driveway was 5 to 10 miles wide and extended about 125 &heritage room exhibits. miles west to Springerville. In 1971, semi tractor trailers sup- 575-418-7796 planted transport by train 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. Eagle Hardware Cowboys could drive cattle about 10 miles a day, while herders In the Historical CharlesIlfeld Building moved their sheep about 5 miles a day, allowing them to graze Distributorsof along the way. Wells were drilled every 10 miles to accommo- Heating Appliances date the herds. In 1919, as many as 150,000 sheep and 21,000 cattle used the trail to reach the stockyard. The original stockyards are still North Main St. intact on North Ash St. in Magdalena, although the railroad 575-854-2346 tracks are long since gone. But Magdalena also owes its origins to the mining indus- DragonFlysStudio try. The ghost town of Kelly, three and a half miles south of Marketing &Advertising Magdalena, was once the center of mining in the area, and boasted a population of 3,000, supported by the numerous mines in the Magdalena Mountains. The Kelly Mine, named Geronimo SprinGSmuSeum 211Main Street, Truth or Consequences, NM 87901 after Andy Kelly when the town was not much more than a 575-894-6600 GeronimoSprinGSmuSeum.com mining camp, was the most productive, and its headframe still monday-Saturday9-5 Sunday12-5 stands. Holly Hagy * 609-865-8479 admission charged [email protected] n Magdalena 0001387401-01Paid for in part by Truth or Consequences Lodgers’ Tax. 8 See , Page 9 9
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain 2018 SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE
John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Magdalena one of the darkest sites in the continental ous hiking trails and camping sites in the US, as well as one of the driest. surrounding Cibola National Forest. Deer Continued from Page 9 There’s plenty to see and do within and elk hunters also are attracted to the easy driving distance of Magdalena. area during hunting season. Star Party hosted by the Magdalena The National Radio Astronomy The Cibola National Forest Ranger Astronomical Society, held over four Observatory’s Very Large Array is just 19 Station on First Street has information days in October, attracts star-gazers from miles west on U.S. 60. The Alamo Navajo and maps. around the county. One visiting astrono- Indian reservation is a half-hour drive For more information on Magdalena, mer was quoted as saying it has arguably north on Highway 169. There are numer- visit www.magdalena-nm.com.
also plays host to one of the nation’s pre- Refuge also provides many birding and Welcome mier research universities, New Mexico wildlife opportunities. Institute of Mining and Technology. Hundreds more come to visit the Continued from Page 5 The campus is also home to the New 150-year-old Fort Craig, one of the most the village’s glory days as a cattle railhead, Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral important Civil War-era Union forts in just a few miles away on a 10,600-foot Resources, where a state-of-the-art min- the West. ridge in the Magdalena Mountains stands eral museum attracts visitors from around Socorro is a place to get away from a state-of-the-art, rapid-response 2.4- the world. But science and technology are the big city hustle yet still participate in a meter optical telescope — the Magdalena not the only draws to the New Mexico variety of community activities — every- Ridge Observatory. The MRO will even- Tech campus; the 18-hole golf course thing is here. Whatever your mood, there tually become home to 10 telescopes attracts golfers of all levels. is a place in the county to satisfy your that will make up the Magdalena Ridge Flowing through the heart of Socorro hankering. Observatory Interferometer (MROI). County, the Rio Grande is the center of the Whether you feel like hiking in the When complete, the 10 telescopes of agricultural community and also affords mountains or sitting in a tavern listen- MROI will be arrayed in a Y-shape and numerous opportunities for nature lovers ing to the blues, we have it. You can go will be able to achieve a resolution 100 to explore unique environments. Tens of places to hang out with people, to enrich times greater than the Hubble Telescope. thousands of visitors come to see the two your mind or be alone with nature. It’s A few more miles west on the Plains wildlife refuges in the county — many to a free and open county, uncrowded and of San Agustin lies the Karl P. Jansky attend the annual Festival of the Cranes friendly. Very Large Array radio telescope. at Bosque del Apache National Wildlife We offer this guide as a gateway to Refuge. Sevilleta National Wildlife your Socorro adventure. 10 While much of the county is rural, it 0001390119-01 11
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain The next issue of the Socorro Chieftain “Free State” referred to taxes, not U.S. History announced these findings under the head- citizenship, although it provided some line: “Socorro May Establish New Free long-awaited leverage. 2018 Continued from Page 12 State.” All Socorro wanted to do was get A rich history had virtually no laws — he was quoted in The editor at the time speculated this the attention of lawmakers in Santa Fe; ore than two centuries before the Socorro Chieftain, stating “city laws could mean Socorroans were due a full little tax money was being returned to the Christopher Columbus’ fabled were indistinguishable from mere scraps refund of federal and state taxes since 1912 county. Msojourn to the New World from of paper.” statehood. Without taxes, there would be a Socorro gave a convincing impression Spain, Piro Indians — the southernmost A local attorney, Claron Waggoner, and dramatic drop in the prices of liquor, ciga- of forming a sovereign republic by erect- Pueblo tribe — inhabited nearly two his colleague, attorney Garnett Burkes, rettes and automobiles to boost Socorro’s ing a Port of Entry on U.S. 85 (now I-25) dozen villages along the Rio Grande from continued to investigate Socorro’s legal struggling economy. and charging 25 cents to pass through San Marcial to La Joya. The Piros, living status. What they found was truly intrigu- He reasoned that with no taxes, Socorro the county. Passports and citizenship cer- in pueblos since at least the 1200s, weren’t ing. When the Spanish Empire fell, in would be a “free state” in which to live. tificates were printed. For one dollar, you SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE the only Indians to call this land home — 1821, all Spanish lands were converted The term “Free State of Socorro” quickly could become a citizen and travel the Apache Indians also inhabited much of the to Mexican land grants. With statehood, stuck as area newspapers picked up the county’s highways for free. area that today is called the Middle Rio the constitution provided that all Mexican story. This got Santa Fe’s attention. It also Grande Valley. land grants become part of the state of A phenomenon unique to Socorro got the attention of the rest of the country, As the Spanish explorers in the mid- New Mexico. was born. Over the following weeks, climaxed by a three-page feature article in 16th century began to make their way Socorro was an exception. It seems the both newspapers in town — the Socorro Life magazine in June. north from Mexico, they followed the Rio Spanish “Provincia de Socorro” land grant Chieftain and the Spanish language El Almost overnight, Socorro went from Grande and established El Camino Real was never turned over to Mexican authori- Defensor — published lengthy articles an obscure desert town to a tourist desti- — the Royal Road into “New Spain.” As ties and omitted from the 1848 annexation inciting the townspeople. nation. The Free State of Socorro lasted a result, they were frequent visitors at the to the territory of New Mexico. Legally, Letters supporting secession from into 1955. Piro villages. Socorro remained a Spanish Land Grant. across the country were also printed. The friendly people of Socorro County Socorro got its name in 1598 from Therefore, the two attorneys concluded The people of Socorro had no inten- welcome you to our part of the world, explorer Juan de Oñate, whose tired and Photo courtesy of Socorro Historical Society Socorro County is not and never was a tions of seceding from the Union. whether you are here to enjoy the Land of hungry men were given food and shelter legal part of the state of New Mexico, and They agreed they were all Americans Enchantment or the sovereign Free State by the Piros. In Socorro County, the Army established Mining and Technology, or New Mexico possibly not even the United States. and wanted to remain Americans. The of Socorro. He renamed the Pilabo pueblo Fort Conrad in 1851, but found it indefen- Tech for short), which opened in 1893. sible and relocated to the newly-built Fort The glory days of mining are recalled each “Socorro,” which means “help” or “suc- – visitor review on tripadvisor.com cor” in Spanish. Craig in 1854. year in Socorro during the ’49ers celebra- “AMAZING! ... this is a MUST SEE!” In the early 1600s, Franciscan friars The Civil War made its way into New tions, events put on by the school to relive built missions at Socorro, Senecú, near Mexico and Socorro County. On Feb. its early days and pay tribute to the area’s San Marcial, and Sevilleta, near La Joya. 21, 1862, Union and Confederate forces mining history. In 1680, when the Pueblo Indians engaged in a day-long battle south of Livestock, ranching and agriculture Very Large Array of northern New Mexico staged their Socorro near Fort Craig — known as have always been integral to the fabric Visit the amazing place where profound revolt against the Spaniards, the people of the Battle of Valverde. On March 30, the of the area and those who call it home. Socorro and surrounding areas fled. Confederates met stiffer resistance and Because the county contains two of the secrets of the universe are explored lost the Battle of Glorietta near Santa nation’s most important wildlife refuges, The Piros did not participate in the The Very Large Array (VLA) is the most famous and revolt and headed south to El Paso, Texas, Fe, which forced their retreat from New nature plays a key role of life in Socorro with the Spanish troops and settlers. Mexico back to Texas. as well. powerful telescope of its kind. Its immense dishes are When the Spaniards came back up The Battle of Valverde is re-enacted The area’s rich and varied history has spread across more than a hundred square miles of the valley, they found that the abandoned every year in Socorro County, with hun- spawned a number of annual celebrations desert. They gather invisible light—radio waves— pueblos from Senecú to Sevilleta had dreds of Civil War buffs in attendance that continue to grow in popularity, many naturally emitted in space. We learn about star birth, been pillaged by the Apaches. For the next both participating and watching the many of which can be found throughout this galaxy growth, clouds of molecules that may be building demonstrations of warfare. guide. 100 years, there were few settlers in the blocks of life, and the incredible power of black holes. area. Socorro and the surrounding area The resettlement of Socorro began in boomed after the Civil War, thanks to Socorro’s Free State of Mind the early 1800s. In 1815, 21 families were mining strikes — lead and zinc in the This year marked the 65th anniversary Precious information from space has traveled given land grants to settle here. Magdalena area and silver on Socorro of the “Free State of Socorro” — a move- for billions of years to reach the VLA. Socorro flourished because of the Peak. The railroad arrived in 1882, fueled ment, started by accident, that placed From Socorro you can be there in an hour! fertile farm land and grazing along the from the vast coal fields east of San Socorro in the spotlight across the coun- Antonio. try. For a time, Socorro declared itself river; however, occasional attacks by the Go to public.nrao.edu/visit-us National Radio Apaches remained a constant threat. Socorro, with her mines, mills and a free sovereign territory from the State of New Mexico. In the 1950s, District Judge or call 575-835-7410 for Astronomy When New Mexico became a territory smelters, became the center to this diverse admission fees and Observatory of the U.S. in 1848, the region saw some mining activity. In 1889, the government Charles Fowler began an investigation today’s hours www.nrao.edu/VisitVLApublic.nrao.edu relief as the military established a series of chose Socorro as the site for its new School that determined the city of Socorro forts for protection against the Apaches. of Mines (now New Mexico Institute of n See History, Page 13 1386523-01 12 13
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain 2018
Sandra Allen Kristen Adams DolceReyes John Courtney Staci Oldham MD CNP CNP Prescribing Psychologist CNP
Socorro Community Socorro Community Socorro Community Socorro Mental Magdalena Area SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Health Center and Magdalena Area Health Center Health Health Center Health Centers Our purpose is you! Delivering quality care in Socorro and Magdalena. Accepting new patients. Socorro Community Health Center Sarah Turner | El Defensor Chieftain 575-835-4444 1300 Enterprise Road |Socorro, NM Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array •Family-Centered Primary Care: Adult, Pediatrics, Geriatrics •CDL Medical Assessment Screenings he Karl G. Jansky Very Large Make Contact”, “Independence Day” and technology, and scientific accomplish- Array is the world’s most famous “Armageddon” among others. ments of the VLA and enjoy the spec- •Behavioral Health Services Tradio telescope, an iconic sight of Thousands of tourists from dozens of tacle of the antennas and facilities of this 27 giant dish antennas rising spectacu- countries make the VLA a travel destina- unique site that continues its decades- Socorro Mental Health larly from the high desert of the Plains of tion every year. long service at the frontier of science, San Agustin west of Magdalena. The VLA was dedicated in 1980 and blazing new trails of human knowledge. 575-835-2444 For more than four decades, the VLA provided new and unmatched research The Visitor Center features an award- 1200 Highway 60 |Socorro, NM has been a premier tool for research- capabilities to the world’s astronomers. winning film narrated by Jodie Foster, ers from around the world who seek In 2012, the National Radio Astronomy plus exhibits describing radio astronomy •Individualand Group Therapy to advance our understanding of the Observatory (NRAO) completed a and the VLA. A self-guided walking-tour •Medication Management Universe. Scientists have used the VLA decade-long upgrade project that com- path features large, informative signs and •Comprehensive Community Support Services to make landmark discoveries across pletely transformed the VLA, turning it takes you to the base of one of the giant •PsychologicalSocialRehabilitation the entire range of astronomical special- into an advanced technological marvel dish antennas. ties, and its many scientific contributions with vastly more powerful research capa- The path also leads to a unique, walk- are found throughout modern astronomy bilities. through sundial that incorporates ele- Magdalena Area Health Center textbooks. The 230-ton antennas, as much as 22 ments of radio astronomy and astronomi- 575-854-3162 In addition to its scientific importance, miles distant from each other, all work cal history. Leashed pets are welcome 801 10th Street |Magdalena, NM the VLA has captured the imagination of together as a single scientific instru- along the walking tour path. filmmakers, photographers, artists, and ment, able to make previously impos- The VLA is 50 miles west of Socorro •Family-Centered Primary Care: Adult, Pediatrics, Geriatrics writers. Images of the VLA regularly sible discoveries. The VLA is helping on U.S. Highway 60. Signs mark the route appear in feature films, documentaries, scientists address some of the greatest to the Visitor Center. The VLA is open commercials, magazines, newspapers, challenges of 21st-Century astrophysics, daily from 8:30 a.m. until sunset. The and advertisements around the globe. including deciphering the origins of stars VLA Gift Shop is open from 9 a.m. until This is the iconic installation used for and planets, the formation of the earliest 4 p.m. daily except on Thanksgiving, backdrops in the movies. galaxies in the young Universe, and the Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Medicare, Medicaid and PrivateInsuranceaccepted as well It was the setting for much of the still-unknown nature of Dark Matter and Years Eve. For more information, call the as Veteran’sChoiceand other specialty insurances.For the 1997 film “Contact” starring Jodie Dark Energy. VLA Visitor Center at (575) 835-7410, or uninsured,asliding feescale is available based on income. Foster, as well as “2010: The Year We Visitors can learn about the history, visit www.nrao.edu. Please call your health center forqualifying details. 14 15
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain The New
2018 San Miguel Mission ounded 403 years ago, San Miguel LOMA Catholic Church could rightful- Fly claim to be one of the oldest churches in the United States. San Miguel Theater 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 Newly SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE led a caravan of Spanish soldiers and Remodeled colonists up the Jornada del Muerto, which became known as El Camino Real. The main body of the church, which Climate controlled, is the part built between 1615 and 1626, seats about 250 people, although many comfortable seating more would attend services in the early Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain with state of the 1880s when there were no pews and the art sound and people either stood or knelt on the floor. In 1853 another wing was built unto the picture quality church and this accommodates another New Loma 150. Colleen Gino| For El Defensor Chieftain Founded by two Franciscan priests See movies the way traveling with Oñate in 1598, the mission repeated Apache raids it was a few years ioners and oversees the area mission they were meant now known as San Miguel Church (built before the church was restored, eventual- churches — Polvadera, San Antonio, Theater Magdalena, Lemitar, Luis Lopez (the to be seen over the mission’s original foundation), ly being renamed to honor the Archangel anzanares Street had the feel of a movie premiere on Mission of San Jose), Alamillo, Riley, gave the city of Socorro its name. Since St. Michael under miraculous circum- a Friday night in early November 2017. Kelly, and the Newman Center on School it was first built in 1615, San Miguel stances. Father John Anasiudu refers to All that was absent was the red carpet as the city of San Miguel Mission as the mother church of Mines Road near New Mexico Tech. M Church has stood for 403 years at the Socorro welcomed back its movie theater. Full Service The three day San Miguel Fiesta will center of the community. of Socorro County, and it represents the A large crowd was on hand for the street party before the be held Friday through Sunday, Sept. Snack Bar The mission was abandoned during faith and life of the Catholic Church. showing of Thor: Ragnarok that included food, music and a 28-30. the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, and because of San Miguel has 850 registered parish- ribbon cutting. The New Loma Theater reopened after being closed since 2014. Socorro Mayor Ravi Bhasker voiced a hope the theater Convenient would help revitalize the area around Manzanares Street that Parking Salinas Pueblo Monument leads up to the Plaza. “We’re very happy to see the Loma open, and the equipment ocated in the far northeast corner When the Spanish came to the area that they’ve got, the 3D digital camera I think is going to be a of Socorro County, Gran Quivira is some 400 years ago, they worked to huge upgrade,” Bhasker said. “I just hope the crowds keep on Lone of three pueblo ruins that make Christianize the natives and had missions coming. They can come and enjoy food, go over to the Cap up the Salinas Pueblo Missions, a National built at each pueblo. (Capitol Bar) and then come back and watch a movie. I think Monument. At Gran Quivira two mission sites can it’s going to be terrific. We have to support it, that’s the big Abo, Quarai and Gran Quivira were be found, although one was never com- thing.” home to a people who lived in stone, pleted. First State Bank also played an important role. New Mexico apartment-style complexes for centu- Remnants of kivas, used by the native Tech signed a five-year lease from First State Bank for $10 a ries until they abandoned the area in the people in practicing their own religion, are year for the building. 1670s. located nearby. “I am thrilled with the turnout,” New Mexico Tech President They forged a stable agricultural soci- Gran Quivira, also known as Las Stephen Wells said of the grand opening. “Not only do we have ety and participated, through rule and Hermanas, is located about 20 miles south this tonight, we had a full house with the students last night. We ritual, in the cycles of nature. of U.S. 60 on Highway 55. showed it to our students. We’re just happy for our students and These Pueblo Indians were a mix of A visitor center for the Salinas the community.” 107 Manzanares Ave, Socorro two ancient southwestern cultural tra- Missions is located at the turn-off in New Mexico Tech purchased the 3D digital camera, which Purchase advance tickets at ditions — the Ancestral Puebloans, or Mountainair. allows the theater to run first run movies, which was not the Anasazi, and Mogollon — whose roots For more information, call 505-847- case when it closed in 2014. Facebook/NewLomaSocorro, press Shop Now Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain 1389822-01 16 date back 7,000 years. 2585 or visit www.nps.gov/sapu. 17
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Tech New Mexico. While education and research are top- notch at Tech, other opportunities for
2018 Continued from Page 18 students and community members exist in Testing Center, which also conducts anti- abundance. The school has more than 40 terrorism training and land mine detec- clubs and organizations catering to such tion. Socorro residents are accustomed to interests as rock climbing, caving, skiing, earthshaking explosions and deep booms off-road cycling, dancing, rugby, storm coming from the center’s 40-square- chasing and more. mile field laboratory surrounding ‘M’ The Performing Arts Series at Tech Mountain. EMRTC has the ability to con- brings musicians and artists from around duct tests involving over 20,000 pounds the world to the Macey Center, where of explosives. EMRTC was also been a more than a dozen shows are performed favorite setting for the television series each year for students and the public at SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE “Mythbusters,” whose hosts and crew large. have made several trips to Socorro. In Tech’s year-round swimming pool and 2017, the peaks and valleys surrounding full-featured gym are available to students ‘M’ Mountain was chosen for the filming and faculty. The university’s outdoor facil- of the Warner Bros. blockbuster movie 12 ities include a rock-climbing wall, tennis Strong because of its resemblance to the courts and intramural fields. rugged terrain of Afghanistan. Tech also offers classes to the general New Mexico Tech is well known among public through its Community College scientists, engineers and corporations, and program. Offerings include, but are not that reputation gives Tech graduates an limited to: fine arts such as photography, advantage in the job market, often with ceramics, woodworking, glass and metal higher-paying salaries. A finding released arts; fitness classes like zumba-aquatic Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain by the U.S. Department of Education and aerobics; martial arts classes in kara- showed that four year graduates of the uni- te, taijutsu, kung fu and tai chi; and dance Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain versity earn an average salary higher than classes for country-western as well as To find out more about New Mexico New Mexico Tech all other institutions of higher learning in belly dancing. Tech, visit www.nmt.edu.
eralded as one of the premier ANIMAL HAVEN research universities in the U.S., HNew Mexico Institute of Mining Veterinary Clinic Of Socorro 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 provider of world-class education. The student population at Tech was 2,200 as of the Fall 2017 semester. Graduate and undergraduate degrees are Socorro’s only Locally Owned and Operated offered in biology, engineering, math, Animal Medical Facility physics, astronomy, computer science, A healthy community earth sciences, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and more. A new is a strong community. · Compassionate Quality Care · Boarding building devoted solely to chemistry – · General Medicine & Surgery · Equine Podiatry named after retired school President Dan · Educational Programs · Alternative Medicine · Specialty Pet Food · Emergency Services · Digital Radiography Lopez – opened for classes and research · First Born Socorro and More · Pet & Livestock Care · Cold Laser Therapy in 2017. · Heritage Program for Senior Adults · Mobile Services Stephen Wells succeeded Lopez as · Home Healthcare and Hospice · Senior and New Mexico Tech Student Discounts president in the summer of 2016. · Infant Mental Health Services Sometimes referred to, in jest, as a New Mexico Tech photo “research institution with a university referred to as the “MIT of the Southwest.” South Baldy, is a world-class facility for Drs. Dean & Pepita Wilkinson attached,” the university has more than The Magdalena Ridge Observatory and studying thunderstorms and other atmo- Community Based Programs 575.835.3545 a dozen research divisions that allow for Interferometer on South Baldy Mountain spheric phenomena. 308 N. California HOURS: Mon-Tues, Thurs-Fri: 8-12pm & 1:30-5pm | Wed: 8-12pm | Sat 9-1 ground-breaking science to be conducted, in the Magdalena Mountains provide cut- The largest research division at Tech (575) 835-8791 rivaling research at much larger univer- ting edge astronomical research opportu- is the Energetic Materials Research and www.phs.org/socorro “Our Family Caring for Your Family”
sities. New Mexico Tech has also been nities. Langmuir Lightning Lab, also on n Tech 1386499-01 See , Page 19 0001386501-01 18 19
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
2018 Performing Arts Series
eemed the “coolest” program in the city of Socorro, New Mexico DTech’s Performing Arts Series brings the local community together and has something for everyone who is inter- ested in music, theater, dance and more. The dozen shows, as well as the five free concerts, are chosen each year with SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE a little bit of everything in interest. Shows are always a big hit in Socorro, with hundreds of people of all ages and from all backgrounds populating the audience. And because of the wide variety of performances, more and more PAS organizes a huge July 4 celebra- Consolidated School District, Magdalena people from the surrounding area-Los tion with music, family activates and Schools and Alamo Navajo School board John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Lunas, Belen, Truth or Consequences and a spectacular fireworks display. New to bring educational youth performances Bosque Farms-are attending shows. Mexico Tech also supports the PAS with and workshops to all of the communities. The Performing Arts Series has been the Presidential Chamber Music Series, For those looking for entertainment described as a diamond in the desert, and hosted by violinist Willy Sucre who per- before the show, Tech Club Macey is a Mineral Museum both performers and audience members forms with string quartets, piano sextets social gathering opportunity held prior to agree that it brings in some of the best and piano quartets. each show with food and drinks for those ocorro has a treasure chest at the museum. performance variety in the region. PAS is partnered with the Socorro who are 21 and older. corner of Bullock Avenue and In addition to the display gallery, the SLeroy Place, but it’s not filled with Mineral Museum maintains a large ref- the likes of pearls or jewels or gold coins. erence collection for scientific research. The chest is, instead, a museum at the Access to the reference collection can be OLD SAN MIGUEL Bureau of Geology and the treasure is arranged by contacting the museum cura- one of the most unique collections of tor, mineralogist Virgil Lueth. rocks and minerals in the United States. One of the museum’s missions is to MISSION So rare is the collection it was given help members of the general public iden- One of the oldest Catholic Churches the honorary title “Coronado’s Treasure tify rocks and minerals. in the United States — founded 1598 Chest” by the New Mexico Cuarto- “If you find an interesting rock, bring Centennial Commission in 1939. Gold, to me. It’s part of my job description,” Mission Statement: silver, and precious gems, the objects of Lueth said. “The museum serves an We strive to bring people closer to God the Conquistador’s travels and travails, inspiration to people devoted to rock- glitter on glass shelves next to other spec- hounding.” tacular mineral forms. The 39th annual New Mexico Mineral The Mineral Museum in the New Symposium is scheduled for November Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral 10-11. This annual forum held at the Resources’ building on the New Mexico Macey Center is for both professionals Home is where your healthcare is. Tech campus is a rockhounder’s dream and amateurs interested in mineralogy. and features more than 15,000 speci- The Bureau of Geology is located at · Audiology · Labor and Delivery mens, with a special emphasis on miner- the corner of Bullock Ave. and Leroy Church built between 1615-1621 · Community-Based · Primary and als found in New Mexico. Place. Open Monday through Friday Programs Specialty Care Clinic Highlights include a collection of exhibits include meteorites; fossils; the- from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday and · Emergency Room · Radiology Services gold, silver and precious gems as well as matic displays illustrating the mineral Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more 403 El Camino Real · Full-service Laboratory · Rehabilitation Center excellent samples of the rare Smithsonite wealth from the Las Cruces, Silver City, information, call 575-835-5490 or visit Socorro, NM 87801 · Inpatient Medical Care · Surgery from the Kelly Mine at Magdalena and a Bingham, Magdalena, Golden, Dixon geoinfo.nmt.edu/museum/. Phone: (575) 835-2891 stunning ultraviolet mineral exhibit. Besides the main facility in Socorro, Fax: (575) 835-1620 and Grants areas; and more. 1202 Highway 60 West Email: [email protected] Historic tools and equipment used Visitors may also purchase particular the Bureau has a satellite office in (575) 835-1140 in the mining industry throughout time specimens. Proceeds from the sales are Albuquerque and a small office in www.phs.org/socorro are displayed in the main gallery. Other used to purchase new materials for the Carlsbad. www.sdc.org/~smiguel/ 20 1386677-01 0001386503-01 21
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
2018 New Mexico Tech Golf Course onsidered by many to be Hole No. 5 is a true test of length a vibrant desert oasis, the and skill at 559 yards from the blue CNew Mexico Tech Golf tee, and its wicked dog-leg right Course offers golfers of all skill gives hitters a chance to lay up, levels a fun, challenging and sce- play it safe, or go for glory over an nic experience. unforgiving patch of scenic desert Set almost directly at the foot of terrain.
“M” Mountain, the 18-hole cham- Because of the course’s vari- SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE pionship course consists of roll- ety, golfers will likely use nearly ing hills, breathtaking elevation every club in the bag to navigate changes and potent views of the the links. Rio Grande Valley. The 6,688-yard, par-72 course The course is generally consid- (5,887, 73 for women) carries a ered a short one by golf standards, 71.0 rating for gentlemen at a slope giving golfers the opportunity to of 129, and 69.7 with a 125 slope work on their precision game, but for ladies. varying fairway lengths also allow Golf Digest named the course the big swingers to let loose with one of America’s 500 best places their drivers. to play golf, as well as one of the New Mexico Tech Golf Course 10 best public courses in New features three par-five holes. Hole Mexico No. 1 is 457 yards from the white For more information call 575- tee, and the championship tee is 835-5335, or visit www.nmt.edu/ Jonathan Miller| El Defensor Chieftain a full 100 yards farther than that. nmt-golfcourse. Casey’s MON - SAT 11AM - 9PM • SUNDAY NOON - 8PM Rodeo and Sports Complex SOCORRO RV PARK ocorro’s state of the art Rodeo played host to several events, includ- tions who said they’d like to have all of Eat Happy Arena is one of the county’s newest ing the New Mexico High School State their events there.” Family owned Sattractions, and it officially opened Rodeo, the regional World Series of The rodeo floor itself is 39,000 square southwestern its doors in 2017 with the Clint Benjamin Rodeo and several horse-mounted shoot- feet with top of the line Priefert Roping gift shop featuring Rope for Hope last February. ing events. The $2.5 million facility was Chutes. a variety of Navajo jewelry, Mexican As one of Socorro County’s most funded in part by a Lodger’s Tax loan and While the arena was primarily imports, pottery, souvenirs prominent spectator attractions the Rodeo features 98 covered horse stalls. designed for rodeo events Socorro, it and hunting and fishing BOOK YOUR Arena, located in south Socorro just off The project, which had been five years could also host polo tournaments, moto- supplies. Highway 60 on the road to Magdalena in the making also has stables built to cross events, dog shows and outdoor ReSeRVATION TODAY the arena seats 800 people and will accommodate 100 animals and the site concerts. 888-674-2234 eventually be expanded to around 2,000 features 50 RV hook-ups with free Wi-Fi Roping events have already been held 1101 State Road 1 SW Socorro, NM 87101 seats. The entrance is off Park Street at access. at the complex, which is also home to 575-835-2234 the Socorro Fairgrounds. The stables were recently used to the Socorro Soccer Complex where the The arena is handicap accessible and house horses for the movie “12 Strong”, Warriors and Lady Warriors high school - 30 amp and limited 50 amp service - Limited availability for cable features a covered roof. which utilized several local Socorro teams compete as well as American - Dump Station Much of the funding for the project County extras and premiered in January. Youth Soccer Organization events. - Free Wi-Fi - Pets allowed was originally spearheaded by former Parts of the movie were filmed at loca- The City of Socorro also plans on add- HAROLD’S Southwestern Gifts - Discounts offered - Call for more New Mexico Speaker of the House Don tions around Socorro. ing a playground to the already accom- 714 Old US Hwy 85, Socorro, NM 87801 information 575.838.3962 Tripp and New Mexico State Senator Socorro Tourism Director Jim Dewey modating recreation area, which cur- Monday - Friday 8:30 - 6:00 pm Howie Morales. Brown said in 2017 that the reception to rently also features a snack stand and Sat 8:30 - 3:00 pm now serving premium beers & wine “It’s a fabulous installation,” Tripp the arena has been a great one. restroom facility. Sun - Closed 913 N California, Socorro NM 87801 said. “What they’ve done has been tre- “The people who are coming here and The rodeo is hosting its second full mendous.” using the arena, they love it,” he said. schedule of events in 2018, including www.yomamasgrill.com 0001331641-01 22 Over the past year the facility has “We’ve had people from a couple associa- high school rodeo competition. 0001387670-01 23 1386843-01 co co Gym offersFinley a weight room, exerciseequipment, basketball Gym offersFinley a weight room, exerciseequipment, basketball Gym Finley broaden of perspective their our city’s lively heritage. Gym Finley broaden of perspective their our city’s lively heritage. children are able of history the to our experience community and children are able of history the to our experience community and rounding areas. We would like to also create aplace where school rounding areas. We would like to also create aplace where school uments of historical significance to our community and sur- uments of historical significance to our community and sur- where residents and visitors are able to witness and doc- view where residents and visitors are able to witness and doc- view We, at Center, the strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere We, at Center, the strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere areathe to bring forth historical items to addto our collection. areathe to bring forth historical items to addto our collection. heritage.being This accomplishedis by encouraging theof locals heritage.being This accomplishedis by encouraging theof locals maintain valuable items of historicaltherefore, significance; our maintain valuable items of historicaltherefore, significance; our is to create apublicly owned facility to preserve, display, and is to create apublicly owned facility to preserve, display, and The mission the Cityof Socorro of Heritage and VisitorCenter The mission the Cityof Socorro of Heritage and VisitorCenter preforming arts. preforming arts. complex,sports university, missionchurch, historical and complex,sports university, missionchurch, historical and Wildlife refuges, radio telescopes,mineral museum, rodeo & Wildlife refuges, radio telescopes,mineral museum, rodeo & Home To: Home To: and you’ll a year-round istruly Socorro findthat destination. and you’ll a year-round istruly Socorro findthat destination. food, recreation, andsuperbeducationalopportunities, great food, recreation, andsuperbeducationalopportunities, great future. Withpresent, ahealthy andthe dose ofhistory, good future. Withpresent, ahealthy andthe dose ofhistory, good strikes anunparalleled balancebetweenSocorro past, the strikes anunparalleled balancebetweenSocorro past, the Stay AWhile: Stay AWhile: 24 court, and array awide of exercise classes and team athletics. Gym offersFinley a weight room, exerciseequipment, basketball Gym Finley broaden of perspective their our city’s lively heritage. children are able of history the to our experience community and rounding areas. We would like to also create aplace where school uments of historical significance to our community and sur- where residents and visitors are able to witness and doc- view We, at Center, the strive to form an open, welcoming atmosphere areathe to bring forth historical items to addto our collection. heritage.being This accomplishedis by encouraging theof locals maintain valuable items of historicaltherefore, significance; our is to create apublicly owned facility to preserve, display, and The mission the Cityof Socorro of Heritage and VisitorCenter urt, andurt, array awide of exercise classes and team athletics. andurt, array awide of exercise classes and team athletics. preforming arts. spor Wildlife refuges, radio telescopes,mineral museum,rodeo & Home To: and you’ll a year-round istruly Socorro findthat destination. food, recreation, andsuperbeducationalopportunities, great pr strikes anunparalleled balancebetweenSocorro past, the Stay AWhile: 2018 esent, and the future. With ahealthyesent, andthe doseofhistory, good DISCOVER SOCORRO ts complex, university, mission church, historical and Visit Socorro Visit Socorro Visit Socorro t t The in only district New be Mexico namedscenic to a byway, The in only district New be Mexico namedscenic to a byway, The HISTORIC is center the of PLAZA tour the which The HISTORIC is center the of PLAZA tour the which honors byway. this honors byway. this inculture.steeped The CitySocorro of Historic Walking Tour inculture.steeped The CitySocorro of Historic Walking Tour i i will be glad you glad be did! will you glad be did! will andrichculture inthe districts the drink and architecture. You andrichculture inthe districts the drink and architecture. You Park-Manzanares Take District. or to time walk drive through Park-Manzanares Take District. or to time walk drive through 2)Church-McCutcheonDistrict; and District; Kittrel the 2)Church-McCutcheonDistrict; and District; Kittrel the City of Walking Socorro Tour City of Walking Socorro Tour s divided intos divided three (3)historic 1)San Miguel districts: Church intos divided three (3)historic 1)San Miguel districts: Church will be glad you glad be did! will andrichculture inthe districts the drink and architecture. You Park-Manzanares Take District. or to time walk drive through 2)Church-McCutcheonDistrict; and District; Kittrel the is into divided three (3)historic 1)San Miguel districts: Church The HISTORIC PLAZA honors byway. this inculture.steeped The CitySocorro of Historic Walking Tour HISTORICAL SOCORRO the DISTRICT SCENIC BYWAY is The in only district New be Mexico namedscenic to a byway,
he SOCORRO HISTORICALhe SOCORRO DISTRICT SCENIC BYWAY is HISTORICALhe SOCORRO DISTRICT SCENIC BYWAY is City of Walking Socorro Tour may have planned. may have planned. deciding to stay alittlelonger you than deciding to stay alittlelonger you than have to o ffer andyou’ll findyourself have to o ffer andyou’ll findyourself attractions andevents the Peruse we that attractions andevents the Peruse we that Enjoy: Enjoy: may have planned. deciding to stay alittlelonger you than ha attractions andevents the Peruse we that Enjoy: See more @www.flickr.com/inlightful See more @www.flickr.com/inlightful M. ColleenGino M. ColleenGino of: All photos courtesy of: All photos courtesy See more @www.flickr.com/inlightful M. ColleenGino of: All photos courtesy ve to offerandyou’ll findyourself www.socorronm.org www.socorronm.org www.socorronm.org is center the of tour the which (575) 835-8927 (575) 835-8927 (575) 835-8927 El DefensorChieftain Rodeo and SportsRodeo Complex Friday, July 13–Sunday, July Day, 15,All City of Socorro World of Team Series Roping Wednesday, July 4,11:00am –10pm, Macey Center 26th Annual 4thof July Celebration City of Events Socorro –July 2018 Sports Complex Friday, June 29–Sunday, July 1,Cityand of Rodeo Socorro JamesCarson Horsemanship Clinic and Sports Complex Wednesday, June 20–Friday, June 22,City of Rodeo Socorro NM Association of Conference Counties City of Events Socorro –June 2018 and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, May 26–Monday, May Day, 28,All City of Socorro Memorial Day Barrel Race and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, May 19–Sunday, May Day, 20,All City of Socorro World of Team Series Roping Saturday, May 5,Time &Location TBA Mayo de Cinco Celebration City of Events Socorro –May 2018 and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Saturday, April 20–Sunday, April Day, 22,All City of New and Mexico Junior High School High Rodeo Saturday, April Park 14,10:00am, Sedillo City of Easter Egg Hunt Socorro Arena and Complex Rodeo Sports Friday, April 13–Saturday, April Day, 14,All City of Socorro Rodeo Grand Canyon RegionCollege Range, Bingham, NM Saturday, April 7,8:00am –2:00pm, White Sands Missile Trinity Site to Open thePublic City of Events Socorro –April 2018 and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Saturday, March 31–Sunday, April Day, 1,All City of Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, March 17,7:00am, Escondida Lake Community Youth Fishing Derby 4th Annual Blues, Brews, &BBQs, TBA Complex Date TBA -10:00am, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Socorro MembershipNMRA Drive Rodeo City of Events Socorro –March 2018: Evenings &Saturday Morning at Historic the Plaza Farmer’s Market –Weekly, April –October, Tuesday Socorro, NM Hammel Museum OPEN to thePublic New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory, Socorro, NM First Saturday Star Party Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array, Datil, NM Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array Guided Tours place first the (taking Saturday eachof month): First Saturday Events Rodeo and SportsRodeo Complex and SportsRodeo Complex Friday, July 13–Sunday, July Day, 15, All City of Socorro Friday, July 13–Sunday, July Day, 15,All City of World Socorro of Team Series Roping World of Team Series Roping Wednesday, July 4,11:00am –10pm, Macey Center Wednesday, July 4,11:00am –10pm, Macey Center 26th Annual 4th of July Celebration 26th Annual 4thof July Celebration City of Events Socorro –July 2018 City of Events Socorro –July 2018 Sports Complex Sports Complex Friday, June 29–Sunday, July 1,City and of Rodeo Socorro Friday, June 29–Sunday, July 1,City and of Rodeo Socorro JamesCarson Horsemanship Clinic JamesCarson Horsemanship Clinic and Sports Complex and Sports Complex Wednesday, June 20–Friday, June 22,City of Rodeo Socorro Wednesday, June 20–Friday, June 22,City of Rodeo NM Association Socorro of Conference Counties NM Association of Conference Counties City of Events Socorro –June 2018 City of Events Socorro –June 2018 and SportsRodeo Complex and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, May 26–Monday, May Day, 28,All City of Socorro Saturday, May 26–Monday, May Day, 28,All Memorial Day Barrel City of Race Socorro Memorial Day Barrel Race and SportsRodeo Complex and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, May 19–Sunday, May Day, 20,All City of Socorro Saturday, May 19–Sunday, May Day, 20,All World City of Socorro of Team Series Roping World of Team Series Roping Saturday, May 5,Time &Location TBA Saturday, May 5,Time &Location TBA Mayo de Cinco Celebration Mayo de Cinco Celebration City of Events Socorro –May 2018 City of Events Socorro –May 2018 and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Saturday, April 20–Sunday, April Day, 22,All City of Saturday, April 20–Sunday, April Day, 22,All New and Mexico Junior High School City of High Rodeo New and Mexico Junior High School High Rodeo Saturday, April Park 14,10:00am, Sedillo Saturday, April Park 14,10:00am, Sedillo City of Easter Egg Hunt Socorro City of Easter Egg Hunt Socorro Arena and Complex Rodeo Sports Arena and Complex Rodeo Sports Friday, April 13–Saturday, April Day, 14,All City of Socorro Friday, April 13–Saturday, April Day, 14,All Rodeo Grand Canyon City RegionCollege of Socorro Rodeo Grand Canyon RegionCollege Range, Bingham, NM Range, Bingham, NM Saturday, April 7,8:00am –2:00pm, White Sands Missile Saturday, April 7,8:00am –2:00pm, White Sands Missile Trinity Site to Open thePublic Trinity Site to Open thePublic City of Events Socorro –April 2018 City of Events Socorro –April 2018 and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Saturday, March 31–Sunday, April Day, 1,All City of Saturday, March 31–Sunday, April Day, 1,All Bandoleros CMSA City of Bandoleros CMSA Saturday, March 17,7:00am, Escondida Lake Saturday, March 17,7:00am, Escondida Lake Community Youth Fishing Derby Community Youth Fishing Derby 4th Annual Blues, Brews, &BBQs, TBA 4th Annual Blues, Brews, &BBQs, TBA Complex Complex Date TBA -10:00am, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Socorro Date TBA -10:00am, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Socorro MembershipNMRA Drive Rodeo MembershipNMRA Drive Rodeo City of Events Socorro –March 2018: City of Events Socorro –March 2018: Evenings &Saturday Morning at Historic the Plaza Evenings &Saturday Morning at Historic the Plaza Farmer’s Market –Weekly, April –October, Tuesday Farmer’s Market –Weekly, April –October, Tuesday Socorro, NM Socorro, NM Hammel Museum OPEN to thePublic Hammel Museum OPEN to thePublic New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory, Socorro, NM New Mexico Tech Etscorn Observatory, Socorro, NM First Saturday Star Party First Saturday Star Party Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array, Datil, NM Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array, Datil, NM Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array Guided Tours Karl G.Jansky Very Large Array Guided Tours place first the (taking Saturday eachof month): place first the (taking Saturday eachof month): First Saturday Events First Saturday Events Saturday, 1, 6:00 pm December –9:00pm, Historic Plaza Luminaria Stroll &Art Saturday, 1,6:00 pm, December Socorro, NM Parade Light Annual Holiday Electric Wednesday, November 21, 5:00pm Gym –10:00 pm, Finley Turkey Bingo Sports Complex Date TBA, October, Day, All Cityand of Rodeo Socorro Finals NMRA Date TBA, October, Day, All Historic Plaza Socorrofest 2018 December October thru City of Events Socorro – TBA, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro New Rodeo Mexico High School andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro Friday, September 28–Sunday, Day, September 30,All City World of Team Series Roping and Sports Complex Saturday, September 22,Afternoon, CitySocorro Rodeo of S.HainesCaptain Laura Memorial Barrel Race Airport Saturday, September 22,8:00am –noon, Municipal Socorro S.HainesCaptain Laura MMountain Fly-In Friday, Day, September 21,All San Miguel Mission Fiestas Miguel San andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro Friday, September 14–Sunday, Day, September 16,All City 9/11 Tribute &CelebrityShoot MountedCowboy Shooting Association – New Mexico Tech Course Golf Thursday,September 13– Friday,SeptemberDay, All 14, 24rd Annual President’s Tournament Golf City of Events Socorro –September 2018 County Fairgrounds Wednesday, August 29–Sunday, September 2,Socorro CountyFairSocorro Saturday, August 25,8:00AM–noon, Historic Plaza Hot August Community Yard Sale Date TBA, noon Gym –5:00pm, Finley Health6th Annual Backto Fair School Friday, August 3–Saturday, August Park 4,7:30am, Sedillo Harvest Triathlon Chile 23nd Annual Socorro and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Friday, August 10–Sunday, August Day, 12,All City of Bandoleros CMSA City of Events Socorro –August 2018 Rodeo and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, July 21–Sunday, July Day, 22,All City of Socorro FegoCMSA El Baca Rodeo and SportsRodeo Complex and SportsRodeo Complex Saturday, July 21–Sunday, July Day, 22,All City of Socorro Saturday, July 21–Sunday, July Day, 22,All FegoCMSA El Baca City of Socorro FegoCMSA El Baca Saturday, 1,6:00pm December –9:00pm, Historic Plaza Saturday, 1,6:00pm December –9:00pm, Historic Plaza Luminaria Stroll &Art Luminaria Stroll &Art Saturday, 1,6:00pm, December Socorro, NM Saturday, 1,6:00pm, December Socorro, NM Parade Light Annual Holiday Electric Parade Light Annual Holiday Electric Wednesday, November 21,5:00pm Gym –10:00pm, Finley Wednesday, November 21,5:00pm Gym –10:00pm, Finley Turkey Bingo Turkey Bingo Sports Complex Sports Complex Date TBA, October, Day, All Cityand of Rodeo Socorro Date TBA, October, Day, All Cityand of Rodeo Socorro Finals NMRA Finals NMRA Date TBA, October, Day, All Historic Plaza Date TBA, October, Day, All Historic Plaza Socorrofest Socorrofest 2018 December October thru 2018 December October thru City of Events Socorro – City of Events Socorro – TBA, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro TBA, Cityand of Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro New Rodeo Mexico High School New Rodeo Mexico High School andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro Friday, September 28–Sunday, Day, September 30,All City Friday, September 28–Sunday, Day, September 30,All City World of Team Series Roping World of Team Series Roping and Sports Complex and Sports Complex Saturday, September 22,Afternoon, CitySocorro Rodeo of Saturday, September 22,Afternoon, CitySocorro Rodeo of S.HainesCaptain Laura Memorial Barrel Race S.HainesCaptain Laura Memorial Barrel Race Airport Airport Saturday, September 22,8:00am –noon, Municipal Socorro Saturday, September 22,8:00am –noon, Municipal Socorro S.HainesCaptain Laura MMountain Fly-In S.HainesCaptain Laura MMountain Fly-In Friday, Day, September 21,All San Miguel Mission Friday, Day, September 21,All San Miguel Mission Fiestas Miguel San Fiestas Miguel San andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro andof Sports Rodeo Complex Socorro Friday, September 14–Sunday, Day, September 16,All City Friday, September 14–Sunday, Day, September 16,All City 9/11 Tribute &CelebrityShoot 9/11 Tribute &CelebrityShoot MountedCowboy Shooting Association – MountedCowboy Shooting Association – New Mexico Tech Course Golf New Mexico Tech Course Golf Thursday,September 13– Friday,SeptemberDay, All 14, Thursday,September 13– Friday,SeptemberDay, All 14, 24rd Annual President’s Tournament Golf 24rd Annual President’s Tournament Golf City of Events Socorro –September 2018 City of Events Socorro –September 2018 County Fairgrounds County Fairgrounds Wednesday, August 29–Sunday, September 2,Socorro Wednesday, August 29–Sunday, September 2,Socorro CountyFairSocorro CountyFairSocorro Saturday, August 25,8:00AM–noon, Historic Plaza Saturday, August 25,8:00AM–noon, Historic Plaza Hot August Community Yard Sale Hot August Community Yard Sale Date TBA, noon Gym –5:00pm, Finley Date TBA, noon Gym –5:00pm, Finley Health6th Annual Backto Fair School Health6th Annual Backto Fair School Friday, August 3–Saturday, August Park 4,7:30am, Sedillo Friday, August 3–Saturday, August Park 4,7:30am, Sedillo Harvest Triathlon Chile 23nd Annual Socorro Harvest Triathlon Chile 23nd Annual Socorro and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro and Sports Rodeo ComplexSocorro Friday, August 10–Sunday, August Day, 12,All City of Friday, August 10–Sunday, August Day, 12,All Bandoleros CMSA City of Bandoleros CMSA City of Events Socorro –August 2018 City of Events Socorro –August 2018 25 SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Bosque •Thespeedlimitis25mph. dents in Socorro County, but around the •Restroomfacilitiesareavailableon state and region.
2018 the auto tour loop, concurrently with Thefriendsgroupshelpsprovidetrav- Continued from Page 26 hours the tour loop is open. elfundingforstudentsfromDora,Raton, lot of the attention, but refuge officials •Potablewaterisnotavailableonthe Toas and El Paso to spend a day on the like to point out that there is plenty to tour loop. refuge. see and do on the refuge throughout the TheFriendsoftheBosquedelApache year, and not just when the cranes call the Trails alsoraisefundsforvarioushabitatresto- refuge home. • All trails are open every day from ration and wetland projects on the refuge, The refuge offers tours and hiking one hour before sunrise to one hour after which is important in an era budget cuts year-round. sunset. onboththefederalandstatelevel. “There are a lot of research projects SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE •Leashedpetsareseasonallyallowed theFriendshavehelpeduswith,”Cobble on trails. During any time of the year, Auto Tour said. youmayhaveyourpetsecurelyinyour •Thetourloopis(approximately)12 They’vealsoraisedmoneyforvarious miles long, bisected by a two way road. vehicle.Therearetoursatthe57,217-acre upgrades to the facilities on the refuge, •Thetourloopisopeneverydayfrom refuge every weekend. There are tours including the installation of new inter- one hour before sunrise to one hour after at the refuge Fridays, Saturdays and pretive signs along the trails and other sunset. SundaysinOctoberthroughNovember. tour sites. •Unpermittedaccessinclosedareas. In addition to the touring, the hik- And the number of members of the Thisincludeswalking,biking,ordriving. ing and the festival, the refuge remains group might be a bit low. Included in the Pleaseobservepostedsigns. busy hosting school groups throughout memberships are memberships for fami- • Please drive carefully on gravel the year. lies and couples. roads and stay on designated roads and The 1,200-member Friends of the The refuge is also helped by an army John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain turnouts. Bosque del Apache National Wildlife ofvolunteers,someofwhomarebirders •AutoTourLooproadsarewide,so play a major role in helping to create the who stay through the winter season. Bosque del Apache Refuge pullovertoallowotherstopasssafely. education experience not only for stu- Therefugewascreatedin1939.
here may be a national wildlife ing the cranes until they depart in early Full Menu refuge with more migratory birds spring. Festival of Full Bar Tthan the Bosque del Apache. There are plenty of areas for visitors “But I don’t know if there is one where the Cranes to view the birds from observation decks Wine Shop you can see them up close like you can to ponds and fields that are accessible D.A.V. here,” Refuge Manager Kevin Cobble Nov. 14-17 from the tour loops. Volunteers who are said. “The birds soar over the vehicles, Socorro County’s largest annual birding enthusiasts will be on hand on Chapter 24 and you’ve got the background of the event, the Festival of the Cranes, is the decks to assist visitors with their Artisan Burgers, Chupaderas in the distance.” a celebration of the sandhill cranes' viewing of the wildlife. Optic equipment Steaks & It’s because of the close encounters return to winter habitat at the refuge. is available on the decks for use during that more than 100,000 visitors flock to Other guests of honor include the the festival. Seafood the refuge along with Sandhill cranes, blue heron, Canada geese, light the snow geese, ducks and other birds for geese, bald eagles, American coot, Other wildlife events such as the annual Festival of the owls, swans, American white pelicans Birds are not the only wildlife visitors Cranes in November each year. and others. More than 100 education- can see on the refuge. “There’s nothing like seeing a lot of “People can see bobcats, coyotes and cranes flying over the road about 70 feet ally-focused events — from hands-on workshops to informational presenta- turkeys,” Cobble said. “Mountain lions above the ground,” Cobble said. have also been spotted on tours.” “It seems like the birds have gotten tions — are held continuously over the course of the five-day festival. Elk and mule deer may also been seen, used to having people watching them,” although the elk are a little shy, refuge adds Deb Caldwell, executive director officials say. of the Friends of the Bosque del Apache Hall and Lounge Open Daily 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. the cranes arrive. The numbers peak with “We’ve also had some people spot National Wildlife Refuge. javelinas, which is a pretty unusual ALL VETERANS AND PUBLIC WELCOME The first cranes are spotted on the the Festival of the Cranes. But a large Sat TV - Big Screens ~ Pool Table ~ Darts number of visitors are usually around sight,” Caldwell said. refuge at the beginning of October, and The Festival of the Cranes receives a Music ~ Outdoor Patio and Bar the numbers steadily build, Cobble said. during Thanksgiving weekend. 606 N. California Street, Socorro, NM ~ 575-838-2087 The number of visitors also builds as And birders can be found observ- n Bosque 200 N. 5th Street, Socorro, NM 87801 575-835-0843 www.bodegaburgerco.com See , Page 27 1387919-01 26 27
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2018 Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge Fort Craig
uail can be seen moving across or a glimpse into what it may have The fort was home to Buffalo Soldiers the landscape. been like for a U.S. Cavalry soldier of the 9th Cavalry and 38th and 125th Q A hawk soars overhead and Fin the middle of the 19th century, a Infantry, the predominantly Hispanic then finds a tree to use as a perch. visit to the Fort Craig National Historic New Mexico Volunteers and New Mexico Elk tracks can be followed leading to Site, 32 miles south of Socorro, may fill Militia, and household names like Kit a water source. the bill. Named in honor of Mexican- Carson, Rafael Chacón and Captain Jack American War casualty Captain Louis S. Crawford.
A cactus can be seen blooming nearby. SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Evidence of wildlife can be seen on Craig, Fort Craig was established in 1854 The fort is famous for the Civil War most parts of the 230,000-acre Sevilleta and like other military outposts of its day Battle of Valverde in 1862, the largest National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was built to protect travel routes and set- Civil War battle in New Mexico. is home to more than 1,200 species of tlements from Indian attacks. Fort Craig In 1885, with the Indian Wars essen- plants, 225 species of birds, more than played a crucial role in Indian campaigns tially over, the fort was permanently 50 species of reptiles, about 100 species and in the settlement of the American closed. Nine years later it was sold at auc- of animals and 15 species of amphibians. frontier. Military excursions from Fort tion to the only bidder. It was later donat- While a large portion of the refuge is a Craig pursued such notable Apache lead- ed to the Archeological Conservancy reserve as a habitat for the wildlife, there ers as Geronimo, Victorio and Nana. and was transferred to the Bureau of is still plenty for visitors to see on the ref- The location was chosen to guard Early on the fort was one of the largest Land Management in 1981, but nearly a uge in northern Socorro County between both El Camino Real and the Jornada and most important frontier forts in the century of looters, scavengers and nature Socorro and Belen. It is just off the exit del Muerto, both of which were primary West. Set in the rugged beauty of Socorro have taken their toll on the site. on Interstate 25. links between the Mexican port of Vera County, it was one of the eight forts situ- What remains of the fort can be seen To start with, there are trails ranging Cruz and cities of Albuquerque and Santa ated along the primary north-south road at the BLM-managed site, off Exit 115 on
from a half-mile to 3.5 miles at the visi- Fe. in the Rio Grande Valley. Interstate 25.
tor’s center. Visitors can see a variety of birds and plants.
Visitors walking along the trail will
also see different species of cactus in Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain bloom, according to Jeannine Kimble, endangered and threatened species along Mexico where butterfly counts have been Sevilleta Wildlife Refuge Visitor Services the Rio Grande such as the Rio Grande performed. manager. Silvery Minnow, the Southwestern The Amigos support the refuge in fun- “There are also some really great Willow Flycatcher and the Yellow-billed draising, which is becoming increasingly views,” Kimble said of the mesas, moun- Cuckoo. important with decreasing government tains and desert terrain within view of the “The wetlands offer a wonderful budgets, according to Coombs. They also visitor’s center. opportunity to see several species of do what they can to help the five-member Sevilleta National Wildlife Refuge birds,” said Granillo, who is also a bird- staff of the refuge. Manager Kathy Granillo points out that a ing enthusiast. “People can walk around. The Amigos help with education and variety of lizards can also be seen along It’s just a few clicks north of the Rio research at the refuge, and work to pre- the trails. Saludo.” serve its natural and historical resources. Interpretive panels line the trails, pro- There are also other opportunities to Members make the Amigos possible viding visitors with information about tour other areas of the refuge – especially and membership is open to all. Amigos Home Base for your adventures 25 Winery Road the vegetation on the refuge. if you join the Amigos de la Sevilleta. de la Sevilleta raises money through in Central New Mexico Sabinal, NM 87006 “If you want to learn about vegeta- The Amigos de la Sevilleta (the ref- member’s fees and special events. Grants 505.388.8117 tion, these trails would be a good start,” uge’s friends group) host tours and events and store sales also contribute. They help Kimble said. on the refuge during various times of the by volunteering in a variety of jobs at the But access to the refuge isn’t limited year. refuge. TastingRoomHours: to the trails. The events include horseback rides, They help with public events such as Thursday-Sunday There is also the refuge’s portion of bird and canyon hikes, as well as oppor- tours, and bring special speakers to the Noon to 5pm •(October -February) San Lorenzo Canyon. It’s possible to tunities for star, meteor and moon gazing. refuge. see elk — and even bighorn sheep — Tours are also offered to non-Amigos They help bring school groups by pay- Thursday-Sunday among the animal life there, according members ing the cost of school buses. They pay Noon to 6pm •(March-September) to Granillo. Among the events held at the refuge for research equipment such as the radio 317EatonAve,Socorro,NM•575.835.2858 includes the annual Butterfly Count. The tracking collars used by scientists at the The wetlands are also now open again www.doscasitasensocorro.com www.blackssmugglerwinery.com 28 to the public after work on the habitat of refuge is one of only two places in New refuge. 29
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
2018 Garcia Opera House uring the 1880s, the dis- covery of lead and silver Din the nearby Magdalena Mountains transformed the quiet town of Socorro with a few hun- dred 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 musi- cians, followed by a grand dance and supper.” Since that first spectacular extravaganza, the opera house has been the setting for a myriad of events. For the last twenty years, the Socorro Community Theater stages an average of two produc- tions a year in the historical opera house, from Shakespearian plays to modern comedies and dramas. Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain
John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Rito Hammel Museum Quemado t one time, Socorro was known “the best beer made anywhere in New Eight rooms, each numbered, tell the GREAT AMERICAN & for producing the best beer in Mexico.” history of the brewery that was a flour- NEW MEXICAN FOOD the state of New Mexico. The Over its years of operation, the brew- ishing business for nearly a century. C-Store A FULL SERVICE LOUNGE Hammel Brewery and Museum at the ery evolved into an ice plant and soda From the main office, where Hammel corner of Sixth and Vigil streets, for- bottling plant after Prohibition shut down conducted business, to the mash room RED & GREEN CHILE SPECIALTIES merly known as the Illinois Brewing beer production in 1919. where the beer was made, the museum is Company, was built in the early 1880s. Although electric refrigerators were a remarkable piece of history. SERVING BREAKFAST 24 HRS Jacob Hammel immigrated from introduced in the 1920s, the ice plant The Hammel Museum has dedicated El Rito Quemado HOMEMADE SOUP Munich, Bavaria in 1848. He was accom- continued to prosper. The Hammel broth- one of the rooms to an exhibit created by FRESH CUT STEAKS panied by his friend Eberhard Anheuser, ers introduced cola drinks and bottled Jon Spargo and the Socorro Train Gang. 1/4 Page Vertical Fuel•Ice•Gifts WI-FI HOTSPOT who started a brewery in St. Louis. Jacob products for Pepsi Cola and 7-Up, as well The Train Gang has recreated the feel of wanted to start his own brewery across as such beverages as Nesbitt and Grapette a historic train depot and has numerous Build 10% DISCOUNT WITH the river in Illinois; the Illinois Brewing sodas. artifacts and photos illustrating railroad Snacks•Coffee MOTEL KEY Company in Lebanon, Illinois. The Prohibition was repealed in 1933, but history in Socorro County. SENIOR’S & CHILD’S MENU Hammel family eventually headed west the brewery never went back to the brew- In an upstairs room is an electric train CATERING and re-established the Illinois Brewing ing business. layout with diverse landscapes and his- 707 N. CALIFORNIA ST. Company in Socorro in the early 1880s. In 1986, Clarence Hammel donat- torical sites. Beer•Liquor Hwy 60 ACROSS THE STREET FROM SUPER WAL-MART The Hammel Museum started out as ed the brewery, to the Socorro County The museum is open the first Saturday Quemado,NM 575-835-1180 a beer garden and progressed into a suc- Historical Society. The Historical Society of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. For 575.773.4664 cessful brewery. has preserved the brewery as a museum, more information, contact the Socorro Wine A June 16, 1893, Chieftain newspa- making it a “must see” attraction for County Historical Society at 575-835- 30 per article said the brewery produced visitors. 3183 or visit www.socorrohistory.org. 31
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Galleries 2018 Continued from Page 32
jewelry, ceramics and more. BLUE CANYON GALLERY Old Highway 60, 3/4 of a mile east of Magdalena 575-854-2953 www.bluecanyongallery.com through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE SUNDANCE GIFTS M MOUNTAIN COFFEE Sundays. Vertu is also open by appoint- 118 Plaza St. ment. 110 Manzanares St. 575-835-2498 575-838-0809 Pottery, tile, wall hangings by Ken VILLAGE PRESS PRINT STUDIO A cozy little coffee house with walls Merrick, Dan Brun and Maria Kenarova. 500 First St., Magdalena filled with drawing, painting and photog- Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday 575-418-6431 raphy exhibits. Hours very depending on through Saturday. www.villagepressprintstudio.com the season. VERTU FINE ART GALLERY WAREHOUSE 110 SOCORRO PICTURE FRAMING 113 Abeyta St. 110 Main St., Magdalena 107 1/2 California St. 575-835-4487 575-854-3253 575-835-3348 www.vertuarts.com www.warehouse110.com Local artists are featured in a variety Oils, pastels, watercolors, acryl- Contemporary arts and perfor- of mediums ics, sculpture, jewelry and notecards. mance space, art openings and special www.socorropictureframing.com Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday events.
Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain Art Galleries
he Socorro area is home to a December, works by local artists are on vibrant artist community. display at business around the Socorro T More than a half-dozen galler- Plaza during the Luminarias, Art Stroll EMPORIUM ies call the area home. Some such as Vertu and Electric Lights Parade. Fine Art Gallery on the Plaza in Socorro Oddments & Vendibles and Warehouse 110 in Magdalena feature ALAMO GALLERY AND GIFTS nationally recognized artists, as well as 1008 N. California St. regional and local artists. 575-835-2787 The Finest in Some of the galleries feature shows www.socorrocountyarts.com and exhibitions throughout the year. A local arts cooperative with dozens Coffee & Chocolate Artists’ work in a variety of mediums of artists showing a variety of media, can be found in many of the galler- and information on El Camino Real. Free Hunter & Hiker friendly ies. Western art, Native American art, workshops are offered monthly. Open wildlife art are among the themes that from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday through can be found at galleries such as Vertu, Saturday. We also have Fuel Warehouse 110, Alamo Gallery and Gifts and the Socorro Framing Shop. BEAR MOUNTAIN GALLERY Artist works can also be found at 902 W. 1st St., Magdalena 575.533.6538 various times of year in businesses in on the dessert from which the town gets 575-854-3310 Socorro, Magdalena and Pie Town in its name. www.bearmountaincoffeehouse.com nearby Catron County. The Gatherin’ Works by local artists can be found Paintings, Native American arts, fiber, 109 Main Street Place features an art gallery in addition at the Socorro County Chamber of Reserve, NM 87830 to a restaurant where people can indulge Commerce and El Defensor Chieftain. In n See Galleries, Page 33 0001388606-01 32 33
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
2018 Trinity Site f you’re lucky enough to be visiting Socorro on the first Saturday in April Iand October, you will have the oppor- tunity to visit the birth of the nuclear age. The Trinity Site, on what is now White Sands Missile Range in the southeastern portion of Socorro County, is where the
first nuclear bomb was detonated on SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE July 16, 1945. That morning, at 5:29:45 a.m. Mountain War Time, the successful testing of the atomic bomb marked the beginning of the end of World War II. The missile range is – understandably – closed to the public, but twice a year its gates are open for the Trinity Site’s semi- annual Open House. The 51,500-acre area was declared a national historic landmark in 1975. The landmark includes ground zero where Scott Turner | El Defensor Chieftain the bomb exploded; the base camp where south of the site where the core of the ground zero. scientists and support staff were housed; bomb was assembled. In addition, one The bomb had been three years in the the remains of one of the tower columns; of the old instrumentation bunkers is and the Schmidt/McDonald ranch house still visible beside the road just west of n See Trinity, Page 37
John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain Featuring Local Artisans Fine Paintings, Photography, Live music Pottery, Alamo Navajo Art, he music scene in Socorro rivals • Bodega Burger Co. has live dinner • Tech Presidential Chamber Music Historic Photography, those of many small cities. With music on Fridays, and live bands. Series features classical performances by weekly open mics, numerous per- • Socorro Springs hosts live music on some of New Mexico’s finest musicians. A Jewelry, Stained Glass, Tformance venues, an annual music festival weekends from time to time. • Socorrofest is a weekend music fes- Glass Ware, Wood Craft, Books, and a terrific Performing Arts Series host- • And in Magdalena, the Golden Spur tival hosted by the city, featuring local, ed by New Mexico Tech, there’s some- Saloon and M&M Cafe often feature regional and national acts. The festival Fudge, Flowers, Collectibles, thing for everyone. live music on weekends. For those draws visitors from throughout New R El Camino Real Historic Trail Paraje, The city is home to many great musi- wanting to check out what’s happening Mexico and beyond, and features both & More cians and bands, including Rob Lopez and music-wise, www.socorromusic.com is regional bands and local musicians play- Fine Arts Physical Music Non-Credit always a reliable source. ing a variety of genres – from country and www.socorrocountyarts.com Rec Certification Classes friends (hard rock/metal), Doug Figgs and Alamo Gallery & Gifts on FaceBook Mariam (Western), The Remedy (variety), Latin to folk and rock. Festivities begin T Roon (folk/rock) and Suavecito (variety). Friday evening with a street dance on the Music year-round historic plaza. The latter half of Saturday • The New Mexico Tech Performing is filled with nonstop live music, per- The local scene Arts Series (PAS) showcases well known formed from two outdoor stages, as well and up-and-coming acts from all over S Director Lillian Armijo as from indoor venues around the city. • Sourdough features an open mic and the world. Performances take place in the • Tech’s Fourth of July Celebration fea- Located in Cramer Hall Room 201 local groups. Macey Center on campus. The remainder tures local and regional performers. [email protected] • The Capitol Bar features regional of this season’s schedule includes acrobat- • The city’s Cinco de Mayo celebration blues and rock bands on weekends. ics, dance and comedy with Jesus Munoz features live Spanish music. & Crafts (575) 835-6581 • Sofia’s Restaurant has performances Flamenco on March 23 and State Ballet’s • Festival of the Cranes Arts & Crafts Open Tues.-Fri. 12-6 pm, Sat. 12-4 pm http://www.nmt.edu/ced-home Saturday nights and Sunday mornings, performance of Cinderalla on April 20. Fair features live music to accompany 1387033-01 34 as well as an open mic every Friday. Visit www.nmtpas.org. the many arts and crafts vendors. 35
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Trinity in perspective, a U.S. adult receives an average of 360 millirems every year from natural and medical sources. The 2018 Continued from Page 35 American Nuclear Society estimates on making. average people receive between 26 and From a list of eight potential test sites 96 millirems every year from the sun and in California, Texas, New Mexico and about 40 millirems every year from food. Colorado, what was to become known at Trinity Site is open twice a year to the Trinity Site in Socorro County was the public for a walk-through visit, on chosen. The area was already controlled Many residents of nearby San Antonio the first Saturday of April and October. by the government since it was part of and Socorro still remember that morn- 2018 Open House dates are April 7 and October 6. There is no admission fee
the Alamogordo Bombing and Gunnery ing, when the ground shook and the sky SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE Range, which was established in 1942 as turned red. for this event, and no reservations are its artillery and bombing practice area. A monument and various artifacts required. The Chihuahuan Desert provided isola- associated with the test are available for Visitors must have a REAL ID card, tion for secrecy and safety, but was still viewing, such as a sample of Trinitite, a passport or military ID to enter. only about 230 miles from the Manhattan glass-like substance left behind when the From Socorro visitors can enter Project’s headquarters at Los Alamos. sand fused together from the heat of the through White Sands Missile Range’s Although what had taken place at blast. Trinitite contains several radioac- Stallion Range Center, which is five Trinity Site was not revealed until after tive elements and is an alpha and beta miles south of Highway 380. The turn- the weapon was used against Japan, the particle emitter. off is 12 miles east of San Antonio. The explosion was felt 160 miles away and Radiation levels at ground zero are low Stallion gate will be open 8 a.m. to 2 windows were broken out as far as 120 — only 10 times greater than the region’s p.m. Visitors arriving at the gate between miles away. Army officials told the pub- natural background radiation, on aver- those hours will receive handouts and lic that a munitions storage area had age. A one-hour visit to the inner fenced will be allowed to drive unescorted the Sarah Turner | El Defensor Chieftain accidently exploded at the Alamogordo area will result in a whole body exposure 17 miles to Trinity Site. The road is paved Bombing Range. of one-half to one millirem. To put this and marked. Exploring Dark Skies New Mexico Tech The night skies over Socorro County Observatory on the New Mexico Tech Independence Day, Transformers and Performing Arts Series include some of the darkest in the nation, campus. Telescopes include a 20-inch 2010, as well as a backdrop for numer- which is the reason amateur astronomers Dobsonian inside a 15-foot dome and a ous television commercials and television plan vacations to take advantage of our Celestron 14 on a Paramount GT-1100 shows. dark skies, now protected from light pol- mount. Built in 1993, the observatory The VLA site and Visitor Center are lution by a state law enacted in 1999. is managed by the New Mexico Tech open daily from 8:30 a.m. until sunset Providing warmth and reliable The annual Enchanted Skies Star Astronomy Club and is surrounded by for a self-guided walking tour that takes service for more than 30 years. Party in Magdalena attracts amateur earth berms to minimize light pollution you to a working antenna on the array. astronomers from across the region and from the campus and town. The Gift Shop is open daily from 9 a.m. features 4 1/2 days of night sky view- Etscorn Observatory is open to the until 4 p.m. ing, lectures and guided visits to the public on the first Saturday of every Guided Tours are offered the first Music Dance Magdalena Ridge Observatory, the VLA month for Guided Night Sky Stargazing, Saturday of each month. and astronomer John Brigg’s telescope as well as at many other times during the For more information, call the obser- museum, the Astronomical Lyceum. year. vatory at 575-835-5101. Located at an elevation of 6,580 feet, Socorro County is home to two world Magdalena Ridge Observatory and Magdalena is a genuine dark sky site class astronomical observatories, the Interferometer, whose mission includes with regular recording of 21.6-21.8 mag- National Radio Astronomy Observatory’s not only astronomical research conducted nitudes per square arc-second. Sky and Very Large Array and Magdalena Ridge by New Mexico Tech but also identify- Scope magazine says this is arguably Observatory. The Karl G. Jansky Very ing Near Earth Objects (asteroids), is Family one of the darkest sites in the continental Large Array, one of the world’s premier not open to the public, except for special U.S., as well as one of the driest. There radio astronomy observatories, consists programs and events. are many good observational reasons of 27 radio antennas in a Y-shaped con- Weekend workshops providing fami- why NRAO’s Very Large Array and figuration on the Plains of San Agustin ly-centered hands-on astronomy activi- Magdalena Ridge Observatory are locat- fifty miles west of Socorro. ties take place at various times during ed nearby. Its impressive dishes, at 82 feet in the year at Sevilleta National Wildlife In the city of Socorro, dark sky view- diameter, have been featured in several Refuge and Bosque del Apache National World Theatre nmtpas.org facebook.com/NMTPAS (575)835-5688 36 ing is the order of business at Etscorn major motion pictures, including Contact, Wildlife Refuge. 37
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Outdoor Socorro Heritage 2018 Outdoor adventures Continued from Page 38 of riding and hiking opportunities. The road eventually ends at and Visitors Center ith its serene and captivating a rock pour-off, and an easy scramble up that pour-off affords landscape Socorro, Magdalena, the hiker a scenic walk farther up the canyon that features a WSan Antonio and their sur- perennial spring that waters the sand below. rounding areas are pristine for those To access the canyon take the west frontage road from the interested in hiking, biking and climbing, Lemitar exit (mile 156) on Interstate 25 and continue roughly and have attracted outdoor enthusiasts five miles to a well maintained dirt road to access San Lorenzo from all around the Southwest. Canyon via a dry, sandy track that nearly any vehicle can navi- SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE For the mountain biking enthusiast gate in good weather. Residents, visitors, and tourists are able to obtain valuable trails like Hop Canyon No. 25, Socorro Singletrack and the Chupadera Crossing and helpful information from our hospitable Visitor Center. Loop offer riders off all skill levels a Ladron Peak chance to get out and test their biking Ladron Peak is a rugged, 9,200-foot high double peaked and skills. isolated mountain west of Bernardo. Hop Canyon No. 25 is a 4.2 mile The rough and long cross country rumble goes up a rocky singletrack that features a 124-foot ascent and slippery terrain and is suitable for experienced, strong hik- and a more than 2,100-foot decent located ers. off North Baldy Peak, south of Water The Ladrones Mountain Range is rumored to have been a hiding place for bandits, as ladron is the Spanish word for rob- Canyon Campground. 217FisherAvenue•Socorro,NM87801 The trail can be ridden in both direc- ber. tions and is most enjoyable as a downhill These days the summit presents a true challenge for hikers, 575.835.8927 Jonathan Miller| El Defensor Chieftain and those who elect to attempt the hike are encouraged to study S trail and is typically ridden as a loop o [email protected] starting up Trail No. 25A, connecting to the Ladron Peak seven minute quadrangle map located at the c north 1/2 mile to the trailhead rather than like big horned sheep can offer those or NorthBaldy Trail No. 8, then down Trail n Outdoor r Monday-Friday driving all the way around. interested in photography surreal photo- See , Page 40 o No. 25. 9am-5pm In all Socorro County has at least 11 graphic opportunities. F The trail has a good flow, is easy to trails rated anywhere from a blue square The area also offers room for ATV a follow, and is a ripping good time. r to a black diamond to cater to bikers from and horseback riding. m From the top of the trail, there is a novice to skilled. For those who wish to take in some meadow crossing and a short climb to the e Overall the county is home to more local sports, the New Mexico Tech Rugby r start of the switchbacks. The switchbacks s than 200 miles of established trails that Club competes during the fall and the are generally well maintained and wide M beckon lovers of the outdoors through spring seasons on campus. enough for bicycles. The tread of the mountain forests, river valleys, canyons The Pygmy Rugby Club competes trail alternates between rocks and packed and deserts. Even more options for non- against teams like New Mexico, New a pine needles. Be mindful of the rocks, motorized off-trail exploration are abound Mexico State and the University of Texas r there have been plenty of pinch flats and k in the Bureau of Land Management and at El Paso, in addition to many others. cut side walls on this ride. The trail gets e National forest back country. In 2015 the Tech ruggers won the Rio looser as you approach the final switch- t For additional trial guides and excur- Grande Rugby Union collegiate cham- backs leading to the parking lot. sion ideas also see the Magdalena pionship. Socorro Socorro Singletrack ascends to a pla- "For ALL Your Insurance Needs" Chamber of Commerce website at www. For more info on the NMT rugby team Saturdays: teau with flowing turns and great views magdalenanm.com. visit www.nmt.edu. 9-11am or sellout of “M Mountain” and the Rio Grande For those interested in rock climb- For the avid hiker or climber, Socorro November-June•Indoors-Finley valley. The terrain is moderate with good June-October•OnthePlaza Year ing, Box Canyon located on Highway County also offers several options. switchbacks. The only technical chal- 80 between Socorro and Magdalena is a lenges are occasional arroyo crossings Alamo/Magdalena Round! popular and scenic spot. and trail sections with loose gravel. San Lorenzo Canyon Wednesdays: The area offers primitive camping and July - October The 11.2 mile track is typically locked Located 15 miles north of Socorro parking and spots for RV’s, and is free Alamo: 1 - 3 pm during non-business hours. Unless you San Lorenzo Canyon is a popular hik- and open to the public year round. Magdalena: 4 - 6 pm are located in Socorro, the best option is ing, camping and biking destination. The Pit toilets are available but there is no to take I-25 Exit 152 Escondida and then wide channel narrows to a spectacular WIC/Senior Vouchers, reliable water source. head south on the road to the trailhead. If high-walled canyon. Interesting side can- SNAP Accepted The small canyon offers novice and you are in Socorro, it may be more con- yons, some with springs, allow for plenty For Info Call experienced climbers several lines on venient to park south of the gate and ride 575.835.8656 both the east and west faces, and fauna n See Outdoor, Page 39 38 0001390344-01 0001386845-01 39
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain Camping
2018 Camping under the stars Continued from Page 40 ith more than 800,000 acres drive south from Socorro on of U. S. National Forest and Interstate 25. Exit at Milepost WBureau of Land Management 115, south of San Antonio. areas located within the immediate vicin- Proceed south on N.M. 107 ity, the Socorro area allows campers a sub- and Old Highway 85 (N.M. 1) stantial variety of opportunities. Camping to Forest Road 225 (a graded is allowed anywhere on National Forest dirt road). and BLM land, except near lakes and SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE streams. A few commercial campgrounds Hughes Mill offer alternative accommodations. Hughes Mill, south of Bear Trap on Forest Service Road Water Canyon 549, offers pit toilets, camping, Water Canyon — arguably the most picnicking areas and trailer popular camping and picnicking spot — is parking. A stream is nearby, about twenty minutes west of Socorro on Robyn Harrison| For El Defensor Chieftain but it is not a reliable water Highway 60. Many trails start off near source. Horses are allowed, but Mountains, has pit toilets, For more information, call camping and parking for RVs. permitted. spring-fed horse water tanks may be dry the Water Canyon campground, offer- there are no horse facilities. camping, picnicking sites and 575-835-2041. The Box Canyon Recreation in the summer. The campground is the trailer parking. Access is via Area is free and open year ing spectacular views and seasonal bird- starting point for hiking, horseback riding No established trails are in the watching and wildflower viewing. The Springtime area. a primitive road, but high- The Socorro Box round. Pit toilets are available, and backpacking up an established trail to clearance, two-wheel-drive campground, accessible via graded dirt The Box Canyon Recreation but no there is no reliable water Campground San Mateo and Apache Kid peaks in the vehicles should have no prob- roads, is open from April to October, and Springtime Campground is located on lightly-used Apache Kid Wilderness area. Datil Well Area (the Socorro Box), about source. Activities include rock has 14 sites for overnight camping and one lems in good weather. There is climbing and hiking as well as the east side of the San Mateo Mountains. Twenty-nine Yard Spring is the only reli- no potable water source at the seven miles west of Socorro on reservation-only large-group site that can There are six campsites, all with log able water source on the San Mateo Peak Campground Highway 60, offers primitive ATV and horseback riding. Datil Well Recreation Area campground. accommodate up to 70 campers. Although shelters, tables and fire pits. Water and trail. To get to Springtime Campground, there is no water at the campground, there Campground, one mile west of Horses are allowed, but rest rooms are available. The campground there are no corrals nor water are pit toilets at the picnic area. Horses are has two large horse corrals; however, the n See Camping, Page 41 Datil on Highway 60, includes one of 15 water wells along tanks. Campers can drive, The Capitol Bar the old Magdalena Livestock walk or bike up a primitive Lemitar. ‘M’ Mountain. Outdoor Driveway. The old cattle trail road to the 10,000 ft. summit Est. 1896 on the Historic Plaza The summit provides a pristine 360 It ends with an arduous run to the top, was established in the 1800s of Mt. Withington. degree view of the surrounding land- but the scenic view and eccentric new- Continued from Page 39 and stretched 120 miles from Anchoring the east end of the Historic Plaza scape including the Rio Grande Valley age memorabilia at the summit make the Springerville, Arizona, to Luna Park and several nearby mountain ranges. effort more than worthwhile. the Capitol Bar was established in 1896 and U.S. Geological Survey site before head- Magdalena, New Mexico. Campground ing out. The shortest and most convenient The only public access is via the The area includes three has served as Socorro’s favorite watering route to the peak begins at a microwave Socorro Singletrack bike trail which Luna Park Campground at To access one of the hike’s jump miles of hiking trails in piñon- tower visible from the Lemitar exit off heads northwest from East Road. the south end of the San Mateo hole for over 120 years. It’s featured on off points exit I-25 at Bernardo (mile juniper and ponderosa pine I-25. Mountains, is accessible from 175) 30 miles north of Socorro. Proceed woodlands, with scenic views bucketlistbars.com and listed as one of the From there head north on the west San Mateo Mountains of the Plains of San Augustin Springtime Canyon via a rug- southwest’s top 20 historic bars. Stop by for southwest on old Highway 85 from Kiva frontage road past Durkin Diesel to a ged, primitive road. RV Park, then cross the bridge over Rio The huge and sparsely used San Mateo and the Very Large Array a cold one and a trip through history chain link gate with a yellow BLM sign. radio astronomy dishes. There It has three sites with tables Puerco. Mountain portion of the Cibola National GO left through that gate onto a dirt are 22 individual campsites, and fire pits, but there are no at Socorro’s only century-old bar! Take County Road 12 west from the Forest is still a part of the Magdalena road suitable for most high clearance two Ranger District. all with picnic tables, barbeque toilets, water nor horse facili- 575.835.1193 locked gate, and around 22 miles later wheel drive vehicles, and head north fol- grills and fire pits. The 12 ties, and not much shade. No take another left and proceed half a mile While there are plenty of off-trail hik- lowing the power line road. Unless you ing opportunities in the region a popular individual and group sites have established trails are in the to the water tank. own a vehicle suited for strenuous off- choice is Trial No. 43, which leads hikers shelters for shade. Restrooms area. From there the hike to the peak is a road use park at the tower and proceed from Springtime Campground to the and drinking water are avail- steep and rigid three miles. on foot up the arroyo and up an old jeep summit of San Mateo Peak at an eleva- able. $5 fee per night. For a Escondida Lake Again, this trail is for the experienced The county park is complete track to a ridge just east of the actual tion of more than 10,000 feet. group site, call 575-835-0412. hiker. with tables, a group shelter, peak. The summit offers views of the bathrooms and a playground, surrounding ranges and valleys Bear Trap and offers RV hookups and Polvadera Peak Strawberry Peak below. Campground tent sites. Visitors can hike A popular destination for Socorro This is an eight to 10 mile hike to the Springtime Campground is accessible Secluded Bear Trap camp- in the bosque and along the hikers is the 7,200-foot high Polvadera top of the 7,100-foot high reddish volcano from I-25 south of Socorro from old ground, located at 8,000 feet river, or relax and fish at the 40 Peak located on BLM land northwest of plug located between Polvadera Peak and Highway 85 and Forest Road 225. in the rugged San Mateo campground’s stocked lake. 1389163-01 41
DISCOVER SOCORRO El Defensor Chieftain
2018 Socorro County Communities Catron County
hirty miles north of Magdalena t’s been called New Mexico’s secret Mogollon, off Highway 180 south of unique name, but also for the friendly on Highway 169 is the Alamo treasure. It’s Catron County; a des- Reserve, was settled in the 1880s in people and, of course, pies. In spite of TNavajo reservation, a chapter of Itination for lovers of the outdoors, support of the gold and silver mines bor- having no gas station or motel, Pie Town the Navajo Nation. Alamo’s Navajo name offering an unparalleled experience for dering Silver Creek Canyon, and in its features three places for pie, The Pie-O- is T’iis Tsoh, after a cottonwood tree that hiking, camping, fishing and even big boom days boasted a population of over Neer, Pie Town Café and The Gatherin’ marked a spring where the Diné coming game hunting. With Gila National Forest 1,500. Many of the original structures Place. Every year on the second Saturday back from Fort Sumner were attracted by encompassing a large part of the county, still stand, including the Silver Creek Inn in September is the Pie Town Pie Festival SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE the flowing spring and protective isola- no other region in the state can come Bed and Breakfast which was renovated which attracts hundreds of visitors and tion of the area. That small band settled close to the clean air, dark skies and in 1980. has been covered by television networks here rather than keep walking all the way abundant wildlife that Catron County A few miles going east from Mogollon and national magazines like National to Window Rock, Arizona. offers. in Gila National Forest’s White Mountains Geographic. Today, roughly 2,200 residents live on Catron County plays a large part of is scenic Snow Lake providing camping One visitor was quoted as saying he the reservation and many of them carry on Socorro’s history, since it was a part of and fishing in a beautiful spot at an eleva- drove all the way from Portland, Oregon the traditions and language passed down Socorro County until 1921. From the tion of 7,313 feet. to Pie Town just to buy a New Mexican from their ancestors. The bloodlines of nation’s largest cattle drive to miners While you’re in the neighborhood, Green Chile Apple Pie. the people living at Alamo are largely and gunslingers Catron’s history is the check out The Catwalk National Scenic People can go back in time with a visit mixed. The territory once roamed by the embodiment of the American West. Trail high above Whitewater Creek, a to the Town of Gabriella, which is just a Apache Indians and settled by the Navajo There is much to see and do in this challenging one mile trail along the his- few miles south of Datil. overlapped and intermarriage between “undiscovered” corner of New Mexico, toric water line route from the 1890’s. The town is modeled after cattle towns the tribes occurred. Some residents of The community of Pie Town on of the Old West. Re-enactments of shoot- Alamo claim to be direct descendents from the pies of Pie Town to one of the Highway 60 has gained national atten- outs are held in the town during the of the great “war shaman” Geronimo. best preserved ghost towns of the west, tion in the last few years not only for its warmer months. The Alamo people hold a celebration of Mogollon. their culture and customs each October. Alamo Indian Days are typically held the weekend before Columbus Day. There’s Treating your family like our family with a parade, Indian market, pow-wow, tra- ditional Navajo singing and drumming friendly, progressive animal healthcare. and dancing, lots of comfort food, arts John Larson| El Defensor Chieftain and crafts and the Miss Alamo Indian Pageant. “dusty” or “pulverized dirt.” It is believed And the Buckhorn across the road has Lemitar the name Polvadera may also be based on been rated as serving the 7th best burger The history of Socorro County the name of an old Piro Indian pueblo in in America by GQ Magazine. wouldn’t be complete without mention- the area of a similar-sounding name. Birders are also known to flock there ing the early families and farmers who Pulvidero, along with Socorro and along with the cranes. broke and worked the land along the Rio Luis Lopez are the oldest documented It’s a connection reflected in the Grande. In the 1820s, many settlers ven- “New World” settlements in Socorro names of businesses, such as the San tured along the river north and south of County. Antonio Crane Mexican Restaurant and Socorro looking for good farm land. the Bosque Birdwatchers RV Park, or in San Antonio their seasonal operation, such as the Casa By the mid 1820s, farming settlements Referred to by many as the gateway to Blanca Bed and Breakfast, which is only Services we offer: were cropping up along both sides of the the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife river. open from October to April. Refuge and by others as the home of the San Antonio is the birthplace of • Emergency Services and House Calls Available • Bull Fertility and Trich Testing Some of these settlers established world’s greatest green chile cheeseburg- farms about six miles north of Socorro. Conrad Hilton, one of New Mexico’s ear- • Medical, Surgical and Preventative Care • Pet Grooming and Boarding ers, the unincorporated village of San liest legislators and founder of the Hilton Word of the good farm land must have • NM Tech Student, Veterans, & Senior Discounts Antonio has achieved a certain notoriety hotel empire. • Reproductive Services gotten out, because by 1831 additional worldwide. families had moved to the area. Hilton was one of the original legisla- For decades, hungry travelers in tors in the newly formed state of New The descendents of these families the know have planned their itinerar- remain to this day in Lemitar. Mexico. ies to arrive at the Owl Bar, rated by O His name can still be seen “C Hilton David Baker, DVM • Terri Gonzales, DVM Polvadera Magazine as the place to stop in New 1903” carved on the wall of what was once 575.835.9002 • 1302 Enterprise, Socorro, NM 87801 Polvadera is a rendition of the Spanish Mexico, in San Antonio just in time for the schoolhouse, since then a mechanic’s
lunch or dinner. 1390011-01 42 word polvoriento or pulverdero meaning garage, and now a barn. 43
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25 Geronimo Springs Museum 2018 Sabinal Veguita ust down the road from Socorro included, and two cradle boards—one created by Hivana Leyendecker, a native Rio Puerco in Truth or Consequences is the very old, and another made only a couple New Mexican sculptor. 3rd longest river Geronimo Springs Museum. of years ago—are on display. The portrayal of Preacher Lewis, in New Mexico J The Geronimo Springs Museum has The museum’s “Mountain Spirit Eugene Manlove Rhodes, and the Apache Las Nutrias Abeyta for over forty years been a repository of Dancer” display begins with a painting Kid are shown in a special display adja- local history, displays, and educational by famed Chiricahua Apache artist Allan cent to the Delmas Howe murals. Bernardo Rio Grande information. Hauser, followed by a drawing and a A showcase for Sierra County and the sculpture by Harlyn Geronimo, as well as
60 Other features SOCORRO VISITOR’S GUIDE area, this entity strives to make avail- a “computerized” version—an excellent The museum’s Homestead Room fea- able permanent and rotating displays example of cultural history shown in an which enhance a visit to the Southwest, tures items dating back to the 1800s, Sevilleta effective timeline display. including fashionable women’s clothing, National Wildlife Refuge as well as encouraging other ventures items used for homemaking, a small Riley Rio Salado while here: hot baths, ghost towns, the Alamo La Joya lakes, Art Hop, scenic drives, galleries, Heritage Room school desk, photographs of early fami- rodeos, and so much more. An average of The historical murals by well-known lies, and several personal possessions 1,000 people a month from every state, local artist Delmas Howe provide a of Sadie Orchard. The museum features Alamo Navajo as well as many other countries, arrive wonderful portrayal of Apache chief both indoor and outdoor exhibits dating Indian Reservation to enjoy the community.One of the areas Geronimo, the Spanish conquistador Juan back to prehistoric times to the ranch- Alamillo Original of the museum showcasing Apache his- de Oñate, “cowboy chronicler” Eugene ing days. Pottery used by the Native San Acacia “Coast-to-Coast” Highway, 1930’s tory includes a life-size wax statue of Manlove Rhodes, and famed Mexican Americans in the area is on display, along Geronimo, as well as information regard- General Pancho Villa. with tools from the area’s ranching days. Polvadera ing other notable Native American fig- Bronze sculptures of the same well- The museum is located in Truth or ures such as Victorio and Lozen. known figures surround a small fountain Consequences. Take exit 79 off Interstate Lemitar Baskets made of sweetgrass are in the room’s center. These bronzes were 25. It is located at 211 Main Ave.
San Miguel de Socorro Magdalena Escondida 60 Socorro Datil Established 1598 Kelly New Mexico Tech, Socorro RLH Corporation Very Large Array San Antonio 380 World’s Largest Radio Telescope San Pedro • Free Continental Breakfast 107NM South Baldy 10,800 ft. Bosque del Apache • Free high Speed Internet National Wildlife Refuge • Pets Allowed • Pool Trinity Site San Marcial 1st Atomic Bomb 1945 • Easy Access to I-25
• Microwave & Refrigerator Rio Grande 1121 Frontage Rd, NW • Free WI-FI, HD Direct TV service with HBO 25 • Free Continental Breakfast • All Rooms w/LED TV Socorro, New Mexico RECENTLY RENOVATED! 575-835-0276 Paraje White Sands 575-835-4626 Est. 1598 Missile Range [email protected] [email protected] 1009 N. California St. Socorro, NM 44 45 46 2018
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