Red River NM Summer Guide 2003

Elizabethtown Museum

Located in the Moreno Valley between Red River and Eagle Nest, the Elizabethtown Museum is the work of long-time E-town resident Beni Jo Fulton who has created a fascinating glimpse of one of New Mexico's most famous ghost towns. Photos and artifacts of the early days are on view. There are also a number of theatrical and musical events during the summer designed to entertain as well as inform.

Founded in the 1860's during the gold rush to the Moreno Valley, E-town was the first county seat of Colfax County and was estimated to have 5,000 residents at one time. As early as the 1870s prospectors wandered "over the hill" to the Red River Valley in search of gold, but found little to convince them to stay.

The museum is open through Labor Day, seven days a week from 10 AM to 5 PM. For information call Beni Jo at 505-377-3420.

Cimarron

Located only 45 minutes from Red River, this is THE Cimarron of Western lore. Check out the Old Mill and the museum at Philmont Scout Ranch, but don't leave town without stopping at the famous St. James Hotel. Owner Roger Smith is known for his hospitality in the Carson-Maxwell Dining Room, St. James Cafe and the Lambert Saloon, named after hotel founder Henri Lambert and offering a variety of fine wines, beer and cocktails.

And then there's the ghost. Yes, spend the night in one of America's most famous haunted hotels. Don't be surprised at what you hear. Or see. They also have package rates and Murder Mystery Weekends available too.

Taos

Located one block from the Plaza is the Kit Carson Museum, home of the legendary mountain man who spent his adult life in Taos. Across town is the Martinez Hacienda, a Spanish era "hacienda" offering a fascinating glimpse into the early days of imperialist Spanish colonial life in the New World.

There is also the Taos Pueblo, an International Heritage Site which dates back over 1000 years and the St. Francis of Assisi Church in Ranchos de Taos. The Pueblo and Church are not museums, so respect the people who live and worship there. Respect goes a long way.