Visiting Billy sites

PatF · Member

Visiting Billy sites

LorettaP · Veteran Member

Pat,

I just sent you an email filled with info on a NM Billy trip, and there is an attachment of a mileage chart as well, so don't be afraid to open it, it's just me sending you some stuff.

As far as Stinking Spring goes, you might email Lucas about that one, that is on private property and he can probably tell you who to contact to get permission to go, as well as the directions. I had the directions, but years of collecting posts and info, it would take me days to find it...and I have a feeling Lucas has that memorized!

The Grzelachowski place is pretty easy to find, but that's on private property as well. You might want to contact Bert, he's the best bet for a thorough tour of the area, if not, it's still pretty easy to find.

As for Blazer's Mill, take highway 70 south out of Ruidoso on into the Mescalero. Blazer's Mill is in Mescalero and if you stay on highway 70 you will drive right through the Blazer's Mill ruins and the actual sight of the gunfight. This is private property as well so although you can see from the highway, you need permission to set foot there. (These directions were given on a discussion board many moons ago, and were given from Lucas Speer!)

There's not a whole lot to see in Mesilla, but it's still is a must see anyway. The building that Billy was in is now a little tourist trap, so don't be too dissapointed, just keep in mind while your in there that Billy was once in there as well. Mesilla is full of alot of other history as well, I suggest you do a little crash course before going, it will be all that more interesting.

As for the other stop...sorry, I about ran out of steam right here! LOL

LorettaP · Veteran Member

Also, might be a good idea to go over this map too....

http://www.wortleyhotel.com/map.htm

Donna · Member

Be sure and eat at La Posta which is located 1/2 block of the plaza. Its been around forever and they have excellent food and great margaritas. I like the tacos the best because they're fried. Walk off the main plaza a block or two so you don't miss the wonderful old adobe homes and you'll feel like you are in a true old New Mexican village. I visited La Mesilla for the first time 15 years ago and I go back every year or so on my way to El Paso. Leave time to browse the Mesilla bookstore on the plaza for its large selection of regional books and gifts.

thekidskid · Newbie

May I suggest the following.. Start at Stinking Springs, to Ft. Sumner, to PDL, to Aqua Negra, to Anton Chico, to Las Vegas, to Santa Fe, to Mesilla. While in Ft. Sumner experience the place where Billy was Killed and is now buried. While in PDL experience the place where he had his last Xmas Dinner, while in Anton Chico experience the Church and surrounding area where Billy ran and where Pat Garrett married Juanita Martinez, while in Las Vegas, experience the Romero jail where he was held and the train depot from where Billy departed to Santa Fe, while in Santa Fe, experience the place where Billy was held (in jail) and while in Mesilla, experience the Court room where the trial was held where he was sentenced to die. The "Plaza" where historical figure Col. Fountain signed The Gadsen Purchase with Mexico is quite historical..Of course the dirt roads 123 years ago are not accessible but todays new roads run pretty close to the original trails and I have a pretty good pointing finger. One can travel the actual dirt road taken by Garrett (in and around PDL where Billy roamed.) This trip from Stinking Springs on to Santa Fe will take one full day.

I'm busy the weekend of the 24th and 25th but any other time, I'll be more then glad to tool you around in my Van. No Charge just good fellowship. my email is 'losproducts@plateautel.net', feel free to contact me and we can plan..bert

Can Chaser Kate · Veteran Member

I hope to do the same in either July or August. If not then, maybe next year.

Have Fun on your Trip, and bring back TONS of Pics!