location-pin Colfax County, NM
HISTORY
Walk Through Time
Colfax County, New Mexico, is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, boasting museums and historic buildings that reflect its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that showcase the area's early settler life, Native American history, and the significant events that shaped the region. From preserved structures to informative museums filled with artifacts, each site offers a unique glimpse into the stories that have influenced Colfax County's development over the centuries. This blend of historical attractions provides a fascinating journey through time for anyone looking to understand the area's legacy.
Things To Do
From historic sites and trails to abandoned ghost towns, Colfax County reflects its early Native American and mining history. Step back in time to to learn about the events that shaped Colfax County as we know it today!
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Van Houten
Van Houten began in 1902 as the mining camp of Willow, New Mexico. That same year the post office name was changed to Van Houten after the president of the coal company. The post office was discontinued in 1952, and by 1954 the mining was stopped entirely. Nearly all of the structures were demolished, but there is still plenty to see at the site of Van Houten.
Dawson
Dawson, New Mexico, is a captivating ghost town that once thrived during the coal mining boom of the early 1900s. The town's lively days faded after tragic mining accidents and the closure of the mines in the 1950s. Today, the remnants of Dawson invite you to explore the old and historic buildings.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
The first memorial of its kind in the United States and features a beautifully crafted granite wall inscribed with the names of New Mexican veterans who lost their lives in the conflict. The site also includes a visitor center, educational exhibits, and serene landscapes, providing a space for reflection and remembrance.
Sugarite Coal Camp
Sugarite Canyon State Park, established as a New Mexico State Park in the 1980s, was formerly home to around 1,000 residents of the Sugarite Coal Camp before the mines closed in 1941. Today, park rangers lead hiking tours along the trail that passes by the ruins of the coal camp, giving visitors a chance to delve into the history of this once-bustling community and the rich heritage of the canyon.