Lincoln County, New Mexico, a land steeped in history and legend, offers a captivating glimpse into the American Wild West. This region, most famous for the Lincoln County War, draws visitors to its well-preserved historic sites, allowing them to walk in the footsteps of iconic figures like Billy the Kid and Pat Garrett. The heart of this experience lies in the Lincoln Historic Site, a remarkably preserved community showcasing life in the 1870s and 1880s.
Stepping Back in Time at Lincoln Historic Site
The Lincoln Historic Site stands as the most visited state historic site in New Mexico. It encompasses seventeen structures, including the Lincoln County Courthouse and the Tunstall Store, meticulously preserved to reflect their 19th-century origins. These buildings, primarily constructed in the Territorial Style of adobe architecture common to the American Southwest, offer an authentic portrayal of life during this tumultuous period.
The Lincoln County War: Echoes of the Past
The Lincoln County War, a violent chapter in New Mexico’s history, unfolded in this very town. The Old Lincoln County Courthouse, now a museum, vividly recounts the details of this conflict. Exhibits showcase the building’s multifaceted history, serving as a store, residence, Masonic Lodge, courthouse, and even a jail. Visitors can trace the events of 1878 through the Courthouse and the Tunstall Store, immersing themselves in the preserved atmosphere of the era.
Exploring Lincoln’s Historical Treasures
Beyond the Courthouse, the Tunstall Store remarkably displays original 19th-century merchandise in its original shelving and cases. Further exploration reveals El Torreón, a defensive tower from the 1850s, the San Juan Mission Church, the Convento, Dr. Woods’ House, and the Montaño store, among other historic structures. The Anderson-Freeman Visitor’s Center & Museum provides a comprehensive historical overview, starting with American Indian prehistory and culminating in the Lincoln County War, further enriching the visitor experience. A 22-minute video presentation on the Lincoln County War and the community plays every half hour.
Preserving the Past for Future Generations
The Lincoln Historic Site meticulously preserves seventeen buildings, reflecting the various factions involved in the Lincoln County War (1878-1881). These adobe and stone structures offer a tangible connection to the past, showcasing the lives and struggles of those who shaped Lincoln County’s history. The importance of the Bonito Valley in the prehistory and history of the Territory of New Mexico is woven into the fabric of this captivating historic site.
Plan Your Visit to Lincoln County
Experience the allure of the Wild West in Lincoln County, New Mexico. The Lincoln Historic Site is open Thursday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Admission is $7 for adults, while children 16 and under, Indigenous/Tribal Affiliations, NM disabled veterans, NM foster families, Friends of Lincoln members, and Museum of New Mexico Foundation members enjoy free admission. New Mexico residents are granted free entry on the first Sunday of each month with ID, and seniors aged 60 and above enjoy free admission on Wednesdays. Consider the New Mexico CulturePass for access to multiple historic sites for a single fee.
For more information, call 575-653-4025 or purchase tickets online.
