CERRILLOS

NAME: Cerrillos
COUNTY: Santa Fe
ROADS: 2WD
GRID #(see map): 2
CLIMATE: Cool winter, warm summer
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
Anytime
COMMENTS: Much to see!
REMAINS: Current residences, many original buildings
It is not known exactly when Cerrillos had its beginning. What is known is its beginning is very ancient and probably dates as far back as 500 A.D. when Basket Maker Indians were in their prime. Gold and turquoise were the minerals extracted from the area. Given the time of 500 A.D. and other evidence, it is very probable prehistoric Indians were the miners. Nearly fourteen hundred years later, American prospectors rediscovered the ancient diggings at Cerrillos. Soon there were hundreds of prospectors roaming the area in search of gold and turquoise. In 1899, it was reported New Mexico's production of turquoise was valued at $1,600,000, most of it coming from Cerrillos. The town's demise began shortly after the turn of the century when production of gold and turquoise slackened. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.


Cerrillos Quarters, 1892
Courtesy Museum of New Mexico


Cerrillos, Clear Light Opera House
Courtesy Dolores Steele


Abandoned Ruin
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


Berardinelli Home
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


Doc Richards Drug Store
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


The Catholic Church
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


Vacant Structure
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


Clear Light Opera House
Courtesy Tom McCurnin


Along Main Street
Courtesy Tom McCurnin

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