Mining in southwest, New Mexico



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Silver City
NM



Silver City, NM

Chino Copper Mine

Butterfield Stage Co.

Open Pit Mining




Columbus, NM.

Seldom does the history of an area combine the intricate patterns of vastly diverse cultures and varied elements that have blended to produce the history of southwestern New Mexico. Geologically, the area is complex to a point of perplexity. Geographically, it encompasses great expanses of harsh Sonoran deserts, lush river valleys (the Rio Grande, Gila and Mimbres Valleys), and the high mountains where alpine flora abounds and cool streams tempt the fisherman.



Chino Copper Mine, NM.

Into this scene first came the Indian, then the Spaniard; the Mexican in his turn, and finally the American. Specifics of human activity are vital to the story: frontier forts-bulwarks against marauding Indians, and outpost of conquest; overland trails for man's weary wandering; for caravans, wagons, stagecoaches, and finally for ribbons of steel and asphalt. Mines and mining camps mushroomed on a thousand hills, some to sputter and die, others to live on to feed the hungry industrial plant of 20th century America. And there were cattle, the only way yet found to harvest the desert and mountain grasses. Blend the land, the people, and the activities dictated by the land, and southwestern New Mexico has all the elements that contribute to the romance and excitement of history.




Treasure Hunters



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