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BANCROFT LIBRARY
Authorized Capital, $200,000. Paid-np Capital, $50,000.
SAN MIGUEL
National Bank
OF LAS VEGAS,
Las Vegas, - New Mexico.
JACOB GROSS, Cashier, MIGUEL A, OTERO, President.
MIGUEL A. OTEKO, JOSEPH ROSENWALD,
EMANUEL ROSENWALD, JESUS S. GARCIA,
ANDRES SENA, LORENZO LOPEZ,
DAVID WINTERNITZ.
Correspondence Solicited.
Hopper Bros.,
Dealers in
Staple and Fancy Groceries,
Also Proprietors of the
Delmonico Kestaurant,
The only first-class place for meals and clean
beds. Kates, 81. 5O per day.
East Las Vegas, N. M.
A. O. ROBBINS,
Wholesale and Retail Dealer in
Furniture, Glassware,
Lamps and Lamp Fixtures,
— AND—
Undertaking Goods,
LAS VEGAS,— N. M.— SANTA FE.
D. P. SHIELDS,
Attorney-at-Law,
Proprietor of Abstracts of Titles for
San Miguel County,
Las Vegas, N. M.
J. N. FURLONG,
Portrait and Landscape
PHOTOGRAPHER.
A large number of Views of New
Mexico, Las Yegas, and Sur-
rounding Country always
on hand.
L,as Vegas, N. M.
Boston Clothing House
Levy, Cohn & Co.,
Deal Exclusively in
Clothing and Gents' Furnishing Goods,
Las Vegas, N. M.
J. M. CUNNINGHAM,
Homeopathic Physician
Las Vegas and Hot Springs,
NEW MEXICO.
Geo. Croxford,
Manufacturer of
Saddles and Harness.
Best California Trees
Always on hand. Shop on Plaza at W. H.
Shupp's old stand near Chas. Blan-
c hard' a Store.
PRICKS TO SUIT THE TIMES.
Las Vegas, N. M.
JULIUS GBAAF & CO.,
Proprietors of the
City Bakery and Restaurant,
Dealers in
Groceries, Confectionery, California Fruits,
Canned Goods,
Tobacco and Cigars,
Las Vegas, N. M.
See Hutchinson & Co. for Transportation to the Hot Springs.
o.
Wholesale and Retail
Hardware, Miners9 Supplies,
Iron, Steel, Nails, Etc.,
Farming Tools and Machinery.
Immense stock on hand.
Buckeye Reapers and Mowers.
Manufacture all kinds
TIN, COPPER AND SHEET IRON.
Wholesale Store : Ketail Store :
East Las Vegas. West Las Vegas.
The White.
WM, H. E ALLISON, Agent
East Las Vegas, New Mexico.
White Sewing Machine
Is superior to all others. Is the lightest running machine in the
world. Almost noiseless, easily adjusted. New and in perfect run-
ning order. Warranted for five years, and sold cheaper than any
other machine.
OILS, NEEDLES and ATTACHMENTS for ALL MACHINES
AT WHOLESALE AND RETAIL.
Telegraph orders promptly attended to, Hutchinson & Co., Las Vegas Livery Stable.
TO STTIT THE TIls/CES.
C_
- Manufacturer and Dealer in -
One square south of Plaza, on south side Pacific Street,
Las Vegas, — New Mexico | — Albuquerque.
CARRIAGE TRIMMING DONE TO ORDER.
Successor to Samuel Koiin,
- Dealer in -
Wool, Hidesr Pelts and Furs*
Highest Cash Price Paid.
LAS VEGAS, - NEW MEXICO.
N. J. PETTIJOHN, M. D.,
Consulting Physician at the Hot Springs.
Chronic Diseases and Diseases of Females a Specialty.
Mackley House
A. XTESBXT, Proprietor,
East Las Vegas, New Mexico.
The House is opposite the Depot, and Passengers take Breakfast and
Supper here. Charge Reasonable.
See Hutchinson & Co. for Transportation to the Hot Springs.
The Illustrations in this work were made by
The Northwestern Engraving Co.,
182-184 Dearborn St., Chicago.
Wood Engraving, Photo-Process Engraving,
Drawing and Designing, Etc.
Drawings and cuts duplicated by all the best and cheapest processes. The
greatest attention will be given to
PROMPTNESS AND SCIENTIFIC ACCURACY.
Estimates furnished on application, and directions given for preparing draw"
ings. Correspondence invited regarding all kinds of
Railroad Work, Maps, Letter Heads, Etc.
Specimens and rates will be furnished, but it is desirable that we should have
the copy before us in estimating cost, as we will use in all cases the cheapest pro-
which is adapted to the job in hand.
GKE3O.
LETTER-PRESS PRINTER
69 Dearborn Street, CHICAGO, ILL.
JPrinting in, all its branches executed -with
dispatch in the highest style, of the art at the
lowest possible Cash JPrices. Orders ~by Wire or
JMTail will receive prompt attention. JSstLmates
cheerfully furnished. Correspondence invited.
European Hotel
In the Optic Block, with Fur-
nished Booms to Bent,
East Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Metropolitan Bestaurant. „ . , nr ,, n ,,. ,. n
Hotel World Publishing Co,,
H. J. BOHN & CO., Proprietors.
No. 69 Dearborn St., Chicago, 111.
Books and Pamphlets published
promptly on short notice in
the best style of the art,
and upon advanta-
geous terms.
Send for Estimates.
ISIDORE STERN,
Wholesale and Eetail Dealer in
General Merchandise,
Consisting of
Dry Goods, Gents' Furnishing Goods, Clothing, Gro-
ceries, Wines, Liquors, Drugs, Stationery, Boots, Shoes,
Hats, Caps, Carpets, Hardware, Queens ware,
Tinware. Highest Cash Prices paid for
Hides, Wool and Furs.
EAST AND WEST LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
ON SOUTH SIDE OF THE PLAZA.
MARGARITO ROMERO,
DEALER IN
iEHERAL MERCHANDISE.
Goods Sold Strictly for Cash and at a Small Profit.
West Side of Plaza, Las Yegas, N. M.
Branch Store, La Cuesta, N. M.
Wholesale Dealer in
Las Vegas, N. M.
IMI- DHCEICSEL
WHOLESALE
. IE3IIEZSIE
•WHOLESALE
Wines, Liquors and Cigars, Wines, Liquors and Cigars,
LAS VEGAS, N. M.
SANTA FE, N. M.
MEHDEKHALL & CO.,
FEED STABLE,
Las Vegas % Hot Springs, N. M.
Bus to all Trains, and Daily Hack to and
from the Hot Springs.
Telegraph orders promptly attended to. Hutchinson & Co,, Las Vegas Livery Stable.
GEOFFRIOH & DESMARAIS,
-Dealers in-
General Merchandise,
SOUTH SIDE PLAZA,
Las Vegas, - XTew Mexico.
Miguel D. Marcus,
- Dealer in -
Fancy and Staple Groceries.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables are Specialties.
East XJGUS "Vegras, - ^e^xr ZfcvEescico.
ine Assortment of Cigars and Tobaccos. Cash Paid for Hides and Pelts.
T
J.
FANCYand STAPLE GROCERIES
Eastern Fruits and Vegetables a Specialty.
E. G. HILTY. I. D. HILTY.
Dealers in-
, 1ST-
Inquire at Hotels for Hutchinson & Co.'s Livery Stables.
Charles Wheelock,
Architect and Superintendent,
Office in Jesuite Building,
South First Street,
LAS VEGAS, N. *fl.
Will furnish Plans, Specifica-
tions, and Estimates for all kinds
of Mechanical Structures, such as
Court Houses, School Houses,
Jails, Business Houses, Hotels,
Churches, Banks, Residences,
Bridges, Etc.
MYER, FRIEDMAH & BROM
-Dealers in-
1 J.JLJ.UL VFJt JL VJL VMI JL U.J. Mt
Carriages, Buggies, Blackboards, Etc.,
VECAS, 1TEW MEXICO-
-Manufacturer of-
Wagons and Carriages,
- And General Dealer in -
Wagon and Carriage Material,
Keeps constantly on hand a large stock of
Iron and Steel, Wheels, Springs, Axles, Thimbles,
Skeins, Pipe Boxes and Chains.
Have Employed a First-Class Carriage Trimmer.
In connection with the above I have the best Shoeing" Shop in the Territory.
Repairing done on short notice and on reasonable terms.
Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Telegraph orders promptly attended to, Hutchinson & Co,, Las Vegas Livery Stable.
Mills' Hand-Book of Mining Laws and Guide to New Mexico.
We jihave now in press and will be ready for delivery in a few weeks just
what you need — our Hand Book of Mining- L<aws and Guide to New
Mexico. It contains about 140 pages, and is a work needed by every attorney,
miner, prospector, speculator, agent, recorder, broker and business man in the
mining States and Territories ; and all those who are contemplating emigrating
to ou& territory or the mining districts of the Union. It contains the best map
ever published of New Mexico, and gives the best route of transportation. It is
a complete, handy reference book on all questions under the United States
Mining" Laws ; the latest and most reliable work published on the subject.
I*rice only One Dollar. Sent postpaid by addressing
T. B. MILLS, Las Vegas, N. M.
JAFFA BROS., Trinidad, Col. JAFFA BROS., Albuquerque, N. M-
Dealers in
GENERAL MERCHANDISE
Keep on hand a full stock of everything generally wanted by Farmers,
Travelers, Miners, Stockmen. Staple and Fancy Goods at all their
Stores. Wholesale and Retail at Lowest Market
Prices. Call and see them.
East and West Las Vegas.
TJie Daily Opticr
East Las Vegas, N. M.
We give All the News. Have a general circulation
throughout the Territory, affording an un-
equaled advertising medium.
Subscription Price— $1.00 per Month, $iO.OO per Year.
Editor and Proprietor.
See Hutchinson & Co. for Transportation to the Hot Springs.
HISTORICAL SKETCH
OF
LAS VEGAS,
NEW MEXICO,
BY
H. T. WILSON.
PUBLISHED BY
THE HOTEL WORLD PUBLISHING CO.,
E. J. BOI1N A CO., Proprietors.
No. 69 Dearborn Street, Chicago, HI.
Bancroft Library
PREFACE.
It would be impossible to present a complete derailed account of
the history of Las Vegas in a volume of this size and cost. Great
pains, untiring industry and perseverance were taken to obtain the
facts and data in this book, which, from the sources at hand being
mostly the remembrance of old pioneers, many of whom spoke a lan-
guage foreign to the writer, was a task of no small undertaking.
The idea has been to present Las Vegas and surrounding country "AS
IT WAS and is" without bombast or exaggeration, and allay as much
as possible the many misrepresentations which have gone abroad
from too hasty and reckless writers.
Every country has its advantages and disadvantages, which can
be best ascertained by personal investigation, and one contemplating
immigration to any country should not fail to make it before taking the
final step. As nothing has ever been placed in print concerning the
early history of Las Vegas, but little is known of it by most of the
present inhabitants, and I take pride and pleasure in presenting this
book to my many friends and patrons.
Very Truly Yours,
H. T. WILSON.
CONTENTS.
PAGE.
CHAPTER I. ... 7_i6
The Past, including settlement of Las Vegas, Historical Accounts, Growth to
date.
CHAPTER H. 17-24
The Present, including description of Las Vegas, The Mexicans, The Penitentes.
CHAPTER III. 25-27
The Future, including Advantages, Facilities, Basources, Climate, etc.
CHAPTER IV. 28-37
Tables, including Village, County and Territorial Officials, List of Governors,
List of Delegates, Distance and Time Table, Business Directory.
MIGUEL ROMERO.
Came to this Section of New Mexico in 1833.
CHAPTER I.
THE PAST.
Settlement of Las Aregas.— Historical -A.ccoTin.ts.— Growth, to Date.
Las Vegas has not the antiquity that is generally supposed, or its present
looks would easily lead one to believe. As late as 1830, it was the hunting
grounds of the noble ( ?) red man, and parties of trappers and hunters frequently
FIRST HOUSE, BUILT BY MIGUEL ROMERO, IK 1833.
Fs 29x32 feet, and about 8 feet high. Still standing, and situated about half way between Upper and
Loioer Las Vegas.
came through here in their chase after buffalo, antelope, other game, fish, and
furs.
In the early part of 1833 a Mexican named Miguel Eomero came here from
the southern part of the Territory, settled on a piece of land, and built a little,
low, flat mud house (see illustration) on it, about midway between what are now
called Upper and Lower Las Vegas, about a mile and a half from either. He
commenced at once to clear the land, — a light job — on the meadow he had located,
3 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
put in a small crop of beans, which yielded well, and after they were gathered in
the Fall, he departed for his southern home, owing to the extreme danger
occasioned by the then savage and hostile Indians which infested this region.
Each year he returned in the early Spring, accompanied by his brothers, planted
wheat and beans, and after harvest returned to his family, until 1840, when he
brought them up, and made a permanent location.
In the first of the year 1835, a party of young Mexicans, of San Miguel,
attracted by the unusually rich-looking meadows and rolling prairie lands
in this neighborhood, came up, built them a few triangular mud huts, near where
the Plaza is now, and were instrumental in framing the following petition, which
is known as the Vegas Grant :
SAN MIGUEL DEL BADO, March 20, 1835.
Most Respectful Corporation:
The citizens, Juan de Dios Maese, Miguel Archuleto, Manuel Duran, and
Jose Antonio Casaos, for themselves, and in the name of twenty-five men, appear
before your honorable body in the best and most approved manner, and according
to law, and state, that having registered a vacant and uncultivated piece of land,
commonly known as Las Vegas, on the Gallinas river, about five leagues distant
from this settlement, which land we solicit for the purpose of planting a mod-
erate crop ; to have also the necessary lands for pasturing and watering places,
and having the following boundaries : — On the north the Sapillo river, on the
south the boundary of the grant made to Don Antonio Ortiz, on the east Aguaga
de la Zegua, and on the west the boundary of the grant to San Miguel del Baulo>
which grant we pray for without any injury to any third party, binding ourselves
to receive possession in the name of the federation, and to comply with the
reasonable and equitable conditions which your excellency, by virtue of authority
conferred upon you, may be pleased to establish for the grant of the land, being
pleased to lay this, our petition, before the most excellent Territorial Deputa-
tion ; having first obtained the customary report, which by law is intrusted to
your excellency, in order that that most excellent body may order the aforesaid
grant to be made to us, in which the advancement of agriculture, and the well-
being of several families without occupation, are interested. Therefore, we
request and pray your excellency, that considering us as having presented our-
selves, to yield to our petition, which we swear not to be done in malice, and in,
whatever may be necessary, etc. MANUEL DURAN,
JUAN DE Dios MAESE,
JOSE ANTONIO CASAOS,
MKJUEL ARCHULETO.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 9
Their prayer was granted by the most excellent deputation of the Territory
of New Mexico, at Santa Fe, on the 23rd of March, and decreed by His Excel-
lency, the political chief Francisco Sarracino, the following day, with the injunc-
tion that it should also be for the benefit of all who may be destitute of lands to
cultivate, or without occupation ; the pastures and watering places free to all,
none receiving land to let it remain uncultivated ; a suitable place selected for a
town, surrounded by a wall to be built in joint labor of the inhabitants, in a
manner to afford ample security and protection. Every one to be properly
armed and under the charge of the lieutenant of police of that ward.
The settlement was entitled Nuestra Senora de las Dolores de Las Vegas,
owing to the rich meadows there, — Vegas meaning meadows — and on the 6th of
April, 1835, Jose de Jesus Ulibarri y Duran, constitutional justice of this juris-
diction, came to the new settlement and distributed 5,410 varas (yards) of land to
twenty-nine individuals, the number to each person varying from 100 to 250
varas ; laid out the town with certain number of varas for a Plaza, and house
and garden-plats for each ; designated places for acequies, or watering ditches,
the pastures, and made the plans for the wall which was to surround the town-
Following years up to, and even including, 1846, a great many came in and
took up land, William and Antony Donaldson being the first and only
Americans who received any distribution under the grant, they appropriating a
small portion of land where the Hot Springs are, in 1840, but did not cultivate,
and in a few years sold to other foreigners, as all non-Mexicans were teamed.
No building was done in 1835. A few planted some beans, but a terrific hail
storm destroyed the crop, and the men went back to San Miguel to spend the
"Winter. The early Spring of 1836 presented great activity, and several log
huts, or jacilies, were built, some on that portion of the Plaza where now stands j
the San Miguel Bank. The crops of corn, beans, and wheat were successful
this year, and at the opening of 1837 the settlers were highly elated at their new
acquisition. More log huts were built, and the plucky little party toiled bravely
on, fighting against the many adversities and dangers which beset them, bringing
all their supplies on their backs from San Miguel, a distance of thirty miles.
In 1838 thirty families had settled in the new land, and a few adobe and
stone houses were erected, on the Mexican plan, of course — low, flat, one-story huts,
no windows, and rude holes for doors. A heavy frost came this year before the
corn was ripe, and it was supposed the settlement was ruined, as such a thing
had never been seen or heard of before ; but when the corn was dry, it made
better and more gruel than the same amount from sections that had not been
caught, and the occurrence served as a great advertisement to the place. It got
10 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
abroad that the crops of this section were much better, and one could live on n
less quantity than in other older and probably better neighborhoods.
Living as cheaply and on as little labor as possible, was as much an induce-
ment in those days as at present, and in 1840 Las Vegas assumed the appearance
of quite an important little settlement, but mostly of poor people, however, as
the grant was generously intended for those who had no land to cultivate, were
destitute and out of occupation. Thus, the more fortunate ones who were
enabled to bring cattle and the usual farming implements of those days, a crooked
stick plow, sickle, and carreto, or cart, were greatly looked up to. But freeness
and hospitality is one of the great traits of Mexicans, and usually in farming
seasons the common practice was, the first who arose in the morning and obtained
possession of the cattle, had their use for that day. Later on, and even at the
present day, a system of exchanging work was commenced, and proves very satis-
factory.
The Indians were a continual source of danger and trouble to the settle-
ment ; at no time did they feel safe from an attack, and often when prosperity
dawned upon a settler, goodly little stores being accumulated, a few cattle
gathered, or flock of sheep obtained, would the treacherous Indians swoop down
upon them, in the dead of night, massacre the sleeping family, destroy their
possessions, and drive off the stock. But they struggled on, and that year, 1840.
seemed to be the starting point of prosperity. What is now called Upper Las
Vegas, about three miles from Lower Las Vegas, was started this year, and a
great deal of stock was brought in. A little trading post was also established
this year, by Mr. L. J. Keithly, who had come in the previous year, and was the
first American, or non-Mexican, who settled in Las Vegas.
The people were peaceable, quiet, and industrious. The Alcctlda, or Justice
of the Peace, was law to the letter, and all abided by his decisions, which were
always short and simple, as in case of debt was usually, "Pay him, serve him, or
go to jail."
The Texans' raid on the. Territory, in 1841 and 1843; the occasional passing
of Kit Carson and other noted trappers and hunters; general gradual increase in
population; building of several adobes in both towns; a Catholic church in
Lower Las Vegas ; occasional settling of a foreigner ; passing of the merchant
train and coach once a year from Missouri to Santa Fe, and frequent Indian
depredations, were the principal features of interest and excitement, up to 1846
when the United States took possession of the Territory, and the inhabitants of
Las Vegas were* the first to take the oath of allegiance, in the person of their
Alcalda, Juan de Dios, to Gen. Kearney.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OP LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
11
Las Vegas then came under military law with the Territory, but Gov. Bent
was soon appointed by Gen. Kearney; in a few years a Legislature was organized,
delegates to Congress elected, and the Territory became greatly Americanized.
On Jan. 9, 1848, the New Mexico Rebellion broke out, and Gov. Bent and
all the Americans at Toas, were murdered. But on the arrival of the news at
Vegas, Juan de Dios, the justice, immediately called a gathering, and addressed
LAS YEGAS IH 1851.
Showing Old Catholic Church on the Northwest Corner of Plaza.
the people in such an authoritative manner, deploring the sad affair, and denounc-
ing the Toas murders in the most stringent terms, that the American residents
here — four in number — experienced no trouble or danger, and the military soon
dispelled the rebellion.
In 1850, the Plaza was completely surrounded with compact buildings pre-
senting a good defence against the Indians, as the contemplated walls around the
town were never built. Inhabitants were about 1,000. Monthly mail and coach
came in from Independence, Mo., always accompanied by troops. Postoffice
usually found in the Postmaster's hat ; the position being filled by Mr. Keithly
and Mr. Morrison. Samuel Streeter had started a hotel. The garrison of four
companies stationed here, under Col. Alexander, made money plenty, times
good, and gambling a great rage. In 1854 the garrison was transferred to Ft.
Union, and caused quite a consternation among the people.
In 1855 the heirs of Louise MeC. de Baca commenced contesting the Las
Vegas grant, claiming they held a prior Spanish grant. After a number of
12 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
years of fighting, the United States government recognized both grants as valid
and offset the Spanish grant by giving the heirs 500,000 varas of unoccupied,
non-mineral land, in five square floats, or bodies. The owners of land on the
Las Vegas grant then had surveys made and government patents issued to
them.
Times prospered, and in 1860 the population was about 2,500. Several good
stores, or trading posts, had been established; rough adobe houses were still
being put up, and one two-story house, of Dr. Whitlock's, was a wonder to all.
Yesso, or mica, had been introduced as windows. A number of foreigners who
had passed through in former years, came in and settled; the meadows around
the town made excellent resting and recruiting places for the trains of freighters
before attempting to cross the mountains for Santa Fe, and Las Yegas became a
port of entry and exit to and from the Territory.
A heavy snow storm on April 11, 1858, had killed considerable stock, and
the Indians had been a little troublesome. But in 1862 the Indian trouble was
settled by putting some 10,000 Navajos, and other wild tribes, on a reservation at
Ft. Sumner, and the citizens obtained fat contracts from the government for
furnishing them supplies until they were moved to Ft. Wingate, in 1867. Many
contracts were obtained for furnishing supplies for troops in this neighborhood
during the rebellion ; the government trains all came through here, and prosperity
was heaped upon all.
The first company of New Mexican mounted volunteers was raised here in
June, 1861, by Maj. Morrison, and placed in Col. Kit Carson's command. But
little was seen of the war here, and not very much damage from foraging troops
experienced. In 1862 an epidemic of small-pox caused great alarm.
Up to 1870 the progress was in a gradual, hardly perceptible sort of way,
though the population had reached about 4,000. A great deal of money had been
made toy the business men. Large stores had been started by both Mexicans
and foreigners, immense stocks of goods brought in, and sales were heavy, reach-
ing in some instances the enormous sum of $30,000 a month, and the commercial
importance of Las Yegas was firmly established. A good cash wool market was
being well worked up ; weekly coach and mail came in ; telegraph communications
were had with Denver and Santa Fe. The Hot Springs near town had received
some attention, and obtained quite a little reputation as a resort for invalids.
The railroad had been talked of a little ; freighting to Las Yegas had become an
important occupation. Upper Las Yegas had decreased, and was more of a
farmers' residing place ; lower town became of all the importance. A few sub-
stantial business adobes had been put up, but still rude and on the old-style
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 13
plans ; one or two common hotels were running, but farming was still in a very
primitive state. The lands had to be irrigated, and some dry years the yield of
provisions were barely sufficient to supply the home consumption. Vegetables
and good meats were scarce and very high, as were all kinds of goods or merchan-
dise; for instance, potatoes, 25(JJ a pound; apples, brought from the southern
country by the Pueblos, who made yearly visits with fruit and earthern ware,
50cb a pound; coffee 50(JJ a pound, and calico 20(JJ a yard. No attention had yet
been paid to mining; stock, and principally sheep raising, was the chief occupa-
tion.
Early in 1870 important changes and events took place. The old Catholic
church on the northwest corner of the Plaza was torn down and replaced by a
substantial two-story building. A fine new stone cathedral was commenced.
Kev. Mr. Annin, a Presbyterian missionary who came here in 1869, organized a
mission-school and commenced preaching. He built a church in 1871, but there
being few Americans, his support was small, and he also met considerable opposi-
tion from the Catholic priesthood.
In the Summer of 1870 the Weekly Mail was started by Ash Upton and
John Bollinger. Louis Hommel obtained possession in 1872, and called it the
Gazette. It fell into the hands of J. K. Koogler, the present proprietor, in 1874.
During the years up to 1879 other newspapers were published, as, — the Acorn,
Daily Advertiser, Rivista Catolica, New Mexico Herald, and the New Mexico
Patriot, and the current events of those years are pretty generally known by
mosfe of the present inhabitants.
The political excitement of 1873, 1876, and 1878 was very high. A great
fire 011 June 8, 1877, destroyed three substantial buildings on the south side of
the Plaza, owned by M. Hayes, E. Romero, and D. Gonzales, and occupied by M.
Hayes and Jaffa Bros., general stores, Eosenwald & Co., general store, and M.
Friedman, hides, wool, and pelt dealer. The loss was about $100,000, with little
insurance. The burned district was immediately rebuilt with as substantial
business buildings as the Territory affords.
A great deal of building went on in 1877. Strangers coming in were sur-
prised to see the large store-houses and immense stocks carried. There was a
great mining excitement in 1877, in the Jicallies ; and this same year the Jesuit
college was built ; a small-pox scourge came again ; new roads were built, — and
daily coach and mail lines established in 1875 ; Reynold Bros, bank started in
the Fall of 1876. Several mail routes commenced verging out from Las Yegas;
the Hot Springs became more improved; the wool, hide, pelt and fur trade
greatly increased ; several small manufacturing shops for wagons, buggies and
14 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
harness were established. Great attention was paid to stock raising, very profit-
ably for those engaged in it ; tin and shingle roofs were introduced ; some good
buildings erected ; a well dug in the Plaza and a wind-mill put over it, on which
M. Barela and G. Dugiwere hung by a mob of vigilantes on the night of June 4>
1879. Community sympathized, as both had committed cold-blooded murders-
Several daring coach robberies took place near town, in 1877, 1878 and 1879.
The following list of murders : — P. Buisson and Tomaso Gallegos, by G. Dugi,
December 1, 1878; John Matthewson, by John Rimes, December 5, 1877; Juan
Perea, by F. Sandoval, November 30, 1878; and the deaths of the following
prominent citizens : — Samuel Kohn, an old pioneer, and the first exclusive wool-
buyer who established a cash market, September 29, 1877; John Dold, an
influential citizen who came to the country at an early period, died at Tecolote,
July 7, 1877 ; Geo. W. Stebbins, Deputy Collector Internal Revenue and for-
merly Postmaster for six years, April 18, 1878 ; Hon. Benito Baca, one of the
most popular, influential and promising young men of the Territory, June 21,
1879; Frank Chapman a very enterprising and public-spirited gentleman,
December 31, 1879, — are items which will ever be fresh in the memory of many
of the present inhabitants.
The greatest feature in the last few years was the coming of the Atchison,
Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad. In 1878 a survey was made; in May, 1879, the
depot was located, and on the first day of July the track was laid into Las
Yegas. On the 4th, the first train came in, and the "fate was sealed." The
great train of freighters who were running between Las Yegas and Otero,
Trinidad, West Las Animas and Kansas City were sent on their way to seek
pastures more green in southern countries.
The crack of the driver's whip, and rumbling of the bulky old stage, gave
way to the shrill snort of the "iron horse," and whirl and whiz of the wonderful
cars. The year 1879 will ever be remembered as the most eventful era in the
history of the place.
With the railroad came hordes of people, of every class and description. A
new town sprang up near the depot, on the east side of the little river Rio Gal-
linas, on which Las Yegas is situated, and what was almost a wilderness, seemed
in a day to be transformed to a metropolis with all the life, activity and industry
of a new frontier town. Town lots were laid out in June, and building at once
commenced; the sound of the hammer and saw was heard in all directions, —
and by the last of August, shanties of almost all sizes and descriptions were scat-
tered all over the IQW tract of land about the depot, numbering near one hun-
dred and fifty, with a population of nearly 1,000 new inhabitants.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 15
Many who were creeping into the stages of old decay, saw a railroad and
train of cars for the first time. Dance houses, variety saloons, and every class
of novelties and amusements rushed in, carrying dread astonishment and often
wondering consternation to the natives. Frightful broils, horrible orgies, fearful
rows and murders became of common occurrence; freedom and gambling ran
riot, and law had no sway. But improvements went on ; money was plenty, but
living was very high, — from which many reaped a little fortune, while others lost
what little they had on landing.
Of course every day brought its horde of people, many locating, and others
returning to the States or pushing on farther south. This brings us to the
present writing, opening of the year 1880.
MR. L. J. KEITHLEY,
First American Settler in Las Vegas. Came to the Place in 1839.
EstablisJied the first Store or Trading Post. Is Seventy-one
Years of Age, and still Lives in the Town.
CHAPTER II
THE PRESENT.
Description of Town and. Coxintry— The MIexican People— IPeniterttes
The eventful year just past has been almost a complete drouth, and the
early Spring of 1880 opened witli many blustering winds and severe sand storms.
LAS YEGAS IH 1880,
Showing Plaza looking toward the East Town.
Las Vegas has grown to a population of 6,000, is the county-seat of San
Miguel county, and now considered one of the first places of commercial import-
ance in the Territory. Two or three million pounds of wool are shipped
annually, and an average of fifteen cars of wool, hides, pelts, -furs, copper and
ores are sent East from here daily, while upwards of twenty-five cars of merchan-
dise are received daily, for the merchants here, and shipments to other counties.
The town is situated in the northeast portion of New Mexico, on the banks of
the little river Bio Gallinas,in a quite fertile valley, being often styled the "City
of the Meadows."
Jg HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
It consists of Upper, Lower, and East Las Yegas, or New Town, as the latter
is usually called. We have seen Lower Las Vegas grow from the woods to a
hamlet, thence to a place of fair population and wealth. The Plaza is in the
center of the town, and around it are the principal business houses, many of
them carrying larger stocks of goods than are found in Eastern cities of four
times its size, and which would make some wholesale houses of the States quail.
Two banks, the First National and San Miguel National, front on the Plaza, as
well as three hotels, two restaurants, several saloons and dwelling places. V erandas
run the length of nearly every building, and stone or the bare earth form the
most of the sidewalks. The houses are all of adobe (sun-dried brick), low, flat
roofs of oriental style, and except four, but one story high. About the center
of the Plaza is the relic of the old well, the windmill having been torn down, and
the well long out of use. It was the scene of another horrible sight this Spring,
as on the night of February 9th the vigilantes hung one cow-boy to the wind-
mill, and laid his two companions out beneath him, riddled with bullets, because
of their murder of Joe Carson, a few weeks previous.
The Plaza is the principal market for the produce of the farmers, and all
public business transactions. Almost daily one will see large droves of burros
standing around, loaded with wool, hides, or pelts, and long trains of freighters
will drag across, bound for some of the vast range of country south, which is
tributary to Las Tegas. Little, narrow, crooked streets lead out from the Plaza,
and on all sides of the town are scattered those queer little adobes, which give
the place its ancient and foreign appearance to strangers. Several large and
substantial dwellings have lately been erected, but as yet there are very few
frame buildings in the place. A fine stone cathedral, a good sized Presbyterian
church, the Jesuit college building, and convent of the Sisters of Loretto, are
the remaining points of importance. The Daily and Weekly Gazette, and
Monthly Eureka, are published in this part of the town. The Daily Gazette,
which was started by Mr. J. K. Koogler, last July, receives the Associated Press
dispatches, and is ;a very enterprising and readable paper. The greater popula-
tion of this portion are Mexicans, though many Americans reside here, and have
large business establishments. Upper Las Yegas has one or two fine, large
residences, but is mostly gone to decay.
Across the river, over which a good bridge has been built, lying for the
most part upon a low, flat piece of ground, is East Las Yegas, or the New Town.
Two of the largest commission houses in the Territory, which carry enormous
stocks of everything, are here. About two hundred, mostly frame buildings, are
now erected ; many little shanties, several quite neat brick and wood residences,
yi I
20
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
a fair sized hotel, two churches, livery stables, blacksmiths' shops, and the
depot, comprise this portion. The Daily Optic, by A. E. Kistler, a sprightly
little afternoon paper, is issued this side the river, and gives its readers a good
account of the general local news. The Weekly Optic moved to Las Yegas from
Otero, last July, and was made a daily last November.
Everywhere the appearance of a new frontier town is presented. The
general stores are small, and goods are stowed away with more regard to room
than display. Saloons and restaurants are thickly interspersed along the two
principal business streets. The greater portion of the rougher element which
infested the town have left ; the place has quieted down, and presents a goodly
showing of thrift and enterprise. Lots are now quite salable, and considerable
building is going on in both East and West towns. In West Las Vegas,
^Reynold Bros, are having a beautiful stone block erected on the southeast corner
of the Plaza, for their First National Bank, and when completed it will surpass
any business building now in the Territory.
A Masonic, Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, and a temperance lodge are
orders fully established here, and there is also a pleasant and quite refined class
of society, which is surprising to strangers coming in.
THE MEXICANS.
Many people in Eastern States have
I become impressed with the erroneous idea
P that all the Mexican people are an en-
p tirely barbarian set, with neither sense,
K mind nor civilization, and that one com-
l ing to this country must be a walking
^ arsenal, to be safe in their presence.
: Among the Mexicans here are many very
[ wealthy, well-educated families, and con-
stitute the most influential, solid, and in
some instances, most enterprising por-
tion of the community, and are very
naturally looked upon as outside the
ordinary class of Mexicans, and in speak-
ing of the general traits of that nation-
ality, are not included.
MEMORIAL WIKDHILL.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
21
This country has many desperate characters, and what country has not ?
There have been, even lately, many horrible deeds perpetrated here, but every
day brings to light more terrible crimes in the very heart of our most populous
cities of the United States. Many of the crimes here are multiplied ten-fold
before they reach the eyes of the Eastern people, and but seldom are they com-
mitted by Mexicans. The Mexicans have many queer and odd customs peculiar
to their race ; and this country is, when compared to the States, even yet in its
LAS YEGAS IH 1880,
Showing Adobe Houses in Southern Portion of West Town
infancy. One will see many Mexican farmers plowing with the old crooked
stick, even to this day, while the wheat will be cut with a sickle, thrashed by
driving sheep or goats over it when spread on the ground, and winnowed by
tossing in the air.
The average Mexican greaser, or half-breed, is slow, generally lazy, quite
ignorant, very superstitious, and non-progressive; and as they can live upon
less than any other nationality, they have little ambition to accumulate property
or wealth. Their living is principally on chilli (red pepper), tottier (bread)
mutton and coffee ; their houses are small adobes, with generally no floor ; in. many
instances no windows, and little low holes for doors. The poor are employed in
shearing sheep, herding stock, bush-whacking, selling wood, working on farms,
and as servants. In the latter capacity they are quite apt and very obedient
As citizens, are very peaceful, law-abiding, very free-hearted and hospitable ;
22
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
usually honest, and will pay as long as their money lasts, and do not try to hide
the fact that they have none when all is spent. Women wash their clothes at
some spring or acequie, by beating on stones and drying on the bushes.
Smoking, drinking, and gambling are great passions among both sexes.
A few of the old order of Penitentes still exist in this neighborhood.
Their belief is that self-castigation once a year will purge their bodies of all sins,
THE HEW CATHOLIC CHURCH, LAS YEGAS.
and pave the way to the Penitentes' heaven. It is not recognized by the Catholic
denomination, wrhich reigns supreme in this country, and is the religion which
all Mexicans have embraced.
There is some beautiful scenery surrounding Las Vegas. Grand old canons,
deep gorges and ravines, rocky heights, table lands, Western parks, and a fine
fertile valley up the Rio Gallinas. There are some good farms in the immediate
vicinity, excellent roads, and quite heavy tracts of timber land, all of which will
be more fully explained in the next chapter.
JAUH MaBACA,
An Old Pioneer of Las Vegas, now Deceased,
CHAPTER III.
THE FUTURE.
Advantages, Facilities, R-esonrces, and Climate.
It is hard to realize the exact future of Las Vegas. It has many advantages
and resources, which, if properly developed, will place it far beyond even the
THE PATIENT BURRO.
general expectations of to-day. But capital and skill are needed, and there are
many advantageous ways in which they can be put to use here.
Las Vegas is so situated that the great stock-raising valleys of the Pecos on
the south, the agricultural and fruit raising valley of the Canadian on the east,
and even some portion of the valley of the Rio Grande, Panhandle country
Toas, the mining districts of the Jicallies, "White Oakes, and Silver City, are
tributary to it, and a great deal of the trade can be commanded. Even now the
town is a great supply and out-fitting place for these countries, and constitutes
an excellent distributing point.
Fine building stone is convenient ; timber can be obtained at fair rates ;
26 HISTOKICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
water facilities could be made at fair and profitable expenditure of capital, and
several classes of manufacturing could be conducted here cheaply and quite
profitably. Laborers are bountiful and cheap, and living is no higher than in
most of the States. The highlands near here could be no better for extensive
stock raising, which is now largely engaged in, and the breeding of sheep is being
greatly improved in both wool and increase of meat. By industry and proper
irrigation, fair crops of corn, wheat, oats, barley, beans, common vegetables,
some fruits, and an abundance of very good hay can be produced on the mead-
ows along the Eio Gallinas.
A number of mail routes radiate from here ; huge supply trains of Arizona,
and portions of this Territory receive their freight here, and exchange the
products of their country. It is one of the principal wool markets of the Terri-
tory, has an exceptionally pleasant climate, mild and salubrious at most all
seasons, and with the Hot Springs six miles from town, is acquiring quite a
reputation as a sanitarium.
Although there is some mining going on near here, and some even claim
they have struck rich leads, and expert judges give their opinion that valuable
minerals are in the mountains which lie on the west of the town, nothing of a
very startling nature has been developed. It is hard to tell what labor, capital,
and perseverance will yet unearth.
In the way of railroad talk it is expected that the St. Louis and San Fran-
cisco railroad, now at Vinita, Indian Territory, will ere long be pushed on to
this place. Koads from Las Vegas to Galveston via Pecos Valley, and to San
Juan country, in. Utah, via Mora and Toas, are being agitated. The Kansas^
Pacific, and Denver and Kio Grande, may at some near future day extend this
way, and Las Vegas will always be an important point on the Atchison, Topeka
and Santa Fe.
By reference to the business directory a very fair estimate of the manner in
which the different mercantile branches are represented, can be obtained, and
one can readily see if their trade is overdone.
The facts have been given as presented to the writer, and laid before the
public unbiased, who must now judge for themselves as to the future of Tjas
Vegas.
MR. A. MORRISON,
An Old Pioneer. Came to this Country in 1849. Is 59 Years of
Age, and Still Resides Here. Is a Justice of the Peace. Com-
manded a Company of Neio Mexico Volunteers, Un-
der Col. Kit Carson, During the War
of the Rebellion.
CHAPTER IV.
Interesting and Useful Business Directory.
Village Officials.
Las Yegas is not incorporated and has no village tax, consequently, properly
speaking, no village officials except two police in both West and East Towns.
The Justices of the Peace and county officials have offices here, and fill the
functions of village officials.
WestLas Vegas.
K'R JONES,' | PoHce East La* Vegas<
1 ' ^™™Sc,°N' £ Justices of the Peace . . . .West Las Vegas.
A. V^AMlrOb, \
Wm. STEELE, Justice of the Peace East Las Vegas.
West Las Vega..
County Officials.
C Kichard Dunn.
County Commissioners < Kafael Lucero.
( Antouia Tafoya.
Judge Probate Charles Blanchard.
( Jose MaBaca.
School Commissioners < Pablo Anaya.
( Esmerijildo Vigil.
Clerk Probate Court Jesus MaTafoya,
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 29
Sheriff D. Komero.
Treasurer Florencie Baca.
Precincts. Justices Peace. Constables.
1 Pablo Baca Pedro A. Garcia.
2 Jose G. Garcia Juan Madrid.
3 Jose Pablo Sandoval Antonio J. Aguilar.
4 Luciano Salano Juan A. Tafoya.
5 Antonio J. Campos Jose D. Mares.
6 Preciliano Martinez Manuel Ortega.
7 Victor Lucero Jose Armijo.
8 Encamacion Gonzales . . . Bacilio Mais.
9 Bias Ortega Eomnald Tafoya.
10 Jose MaBaros Eomulo Alarid.
11 Luciano Montoya Miguel Garcia.
12 Miguel Sena Pablo Archuleta.
13 Juan Bustos Manuel Valdez.
14 Serafin Archibiqua Jose Ma C. Baca.
15 Francisco Guruli Pedro Trujilbo.
16 '. Manuel Sais Santiago Parras.
17 Jose Griego Juan Pais.
18 Jesus MaGallegos Tomas Pacheco.
19 Pablo Martinez Conepcion Sanches.
20 Charles Beach Felipe Trujillo.
21 Lorenzo Labide Bafael Baca.
22 Manuel Gonzales Jaun de J. Mestas.
23 Perfeto Legura Bernardo Griego.
24 Jose Leon Martinez Enlojio Martinez.
25 Louis Martin Abian Luaso.
26 .. . . A. Morrison . , . . Jose Galindre.
Present Territorial Officials.
Governor Lewis Wallace.
Secretary Wm. G. Eitch.
Chief Justice Supreme Court, and Judge j T T> -tf -, T> •
First Judicial District . . | L' ******* *>*""*.
30 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
Associate Justice Supreme Court, and j a
Judge of Second Judicial District. . .. \ b
Associate Justice Supreme Court, and ( w
Judge of Third Judicial District ...\ Warren E
Attorney General
Treasurer Juan Delgado.
Auditor Trinidad Alarid.
Adjutant Gen'l J. Howe Watts.
Librarian Samuel Ellison.
Second District Attorney . . J. Francisco Chaves
Third District Attorney L. B. Newcomb.
FEDERAL OFFICERS.
Surveyor Gen'l Henry M. Atkins.
Collector Internal Eevenue J. A. Smith.
U. S. Attorney Sidney M. Barnes.
U. S. Marshall John Sherman, Jr.
Register Land Office Santa Fe John C. Davis.
Receiver Land Office Santa Fe Elias Brevooh.
Register Land Office Mesilla
Receiver Land Office Mesilla
U. S. Indian Agt. Pueblos B. M. Thomas.
U. S. Indian Agt. Apaches Mescalorios S. A. Russell.
U. S. Indian Agt. Navajos
List of Governors.
FROM ACCESSION OF TERRITORY TO U. S. TO PRESENT YEAR.
August 18th, 184:6, New Mexico came under the government of the United
States. August 22nd, 1846, Gen'l Kearney issued a proclamation continuing in
office those who held office under the Mexican Government upon their taking the
oath of allegiance. Juan Bantista Vigil, the Secretary of the Department of New.
Mexico under the Mexican Government, complying with the proclamation, became
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 31
Secretary and Acting Governor to Sept. 22nd, 1846, the date of the regular
appointments of civil officers, by the military commandant.
GOVEENOES.
1846-47 Charles Bent, assassinated Jan. 17th, 1847.
1847-48 Donaciano Vigil.
1848-49 J. M. "Washington, Civil Gov. and Commandan of the
Department.
1849-51 John Munroe, Civil Gov. and Commandant.
1851-52 James Calhoun, died June 30th, 1852.
1852 to Sept. 13. John Greiner, Acting.
1852-53 Wm. Carr Lane.
1853-57 David Merriwether.
1857-61 Abraham Bencher.
1861-66 Henry Connelly.
1866-69 Kobert B. Mitchell.
1869-71 Wm. A. Pile.
1871-75 Marsh Giddings, died June 3rd, 1875.
1875 to June 30. Wm. G. Hitch, Acting.
1875-78 Samuel B. Axtell.
1879 Lewis Wallace.
The following-named Secretaries have served in the aggregate of time as
acting Governor as follows : — Messervy, four months ; Davis, eleven months and.
fifteen days ; Arny, fifteen months ; Heath, four months ; Wetter, two months ;
Ritch, fourteen months. From Oct. 15th, to Nov. llth, 1857, there was neither
Governor nor Secretary, both having resigned. Samuel Ellison was left in charge
of the offices as the last private Secretary to the Governor.
List of Congressional Delegates.
XXXII. Congress 1851. . . .Richard H. Weightman, elected over S. Messervy
and A. W. Eeynolds.
XXXIII. Congress 1853 Jose M. Gallegos, elected over Wm. Carr Lane'
XXXIV. Congress 1855 Miguel A. Otero, elected over Jose M. Gallegos.
XXXV. Congress 1857 .... Miguel A. Otero, elected over Spruce M. Baird,
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
XXXVI. Congress 1859,
XXXVH. Congress 1861.
XXXVm. Congress 1863.
XL. Congress 1867.
XLI. Congress
1869.
XLII. Congress
1871.
XLHI. Congress
1873.
XLIV. Congress
XLV. Congress
XLVLCongress
1875.
1877.
1879.
. . . Miguel A. Otero, elected over Jose M. Gallegos.
. . .John S. Watts, elected over Diego Archuleta.
. . . J. Francisco Chaves, elected over Francisco Perea.
, ..J. Francisco Chaves, elected over Charles P.
Clever.
. . J. Francisco Chaves, elected over Yincento
Romero.
. .Jose M. Gallegos, elected over J. F. Chaves and
JoseD. Sena.
. . . Stephen B. Elkins, elected over Jose M.
Gallegos.
, . . Stephen B. Elkins, elected over Pedro Valdez
. . Trinidad Romero, elected over Pedro Valdez.
..Mariano S. Otero, elected over Beneti Baca.
Distance Table with Comparisons of Time
LAS VEGAS TO —
Miles.
Boston 2,469
New York 2,236
Philadelphia 2,138
Cincinnati 1,449
Chicago 1,275
St. Louis 1,109
New Orleans 1,804
Atchison 770
Kansas City 786
Lawrence 746
Lecompton 73 3
Topeka 720
Emporia 660
Nickerson 541
Bodge City 418
La Junta 216
Pueblo.. . 279
Time.
Faster.
2:12
2:00
2:05
1: 15
1:05
:55
Slower.
:34
:33
:30
: 23
: 16
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 33
Denver 351
San Francisco 1,855 1 : 10
Trinidad 133
Otero 105
Santa Fe.. 82 : 02
Elevations.
Santa Fe 7,047
Pueblo 4,713
Denver 5,143
Trinidad 6,005
Atchison 803
Kansas City 763
Lawrence 845
Topeka , . . . . 904
Emporia 1,161
Dodge City 2,492
La Junta 4,137
Las Vegas 6,397
GENERAL LAWS OF 1876; CHAPTER XXXVIII.
An Act to Regulate the Manner of Locating Mining Claims, and for
Other Purposes.
CONTENTS.
SEC. 1. Location— bounds to be marked ; notice of name of locator ; make record in three months.
SEC. 2. Record books must be provided.
SEC. 3. Value of labor or mining claims defined.
SEC. 4. Locations heretofore made, there being no adverse claims, may file claim within six
months.
SEC. 5. Electment in mining clams and real estate.
SEC. 6. Repeals former acts.
Be it enacted by the Legislative Assembly of the Territory of New Mexico:
SECTION. 1. That any person or persons desiring to locate a mining claim upon a vein or lode o*
•quartz or other rock in place bearing gold, silver, cinnabar, lead, tin, copper or other valuable de.
posit, must distinctly mark the location on the ground so that its boundaries may be readily
traced; and post in some conspicuous place on such location, a notice in writing stating the:eou
the name or names of the locator or locators, his or their in ' entio n to locate the mining claim, giving
a description thereof, by reference to some natural object or permanent monument as will identify
the claim ; and also within three months after posting such notice, cause to be recorded a copy
thereof in the office of the recorder of the county in which the notice is posted ; and provided no
other record of such notice shall be necessary.
SEC. 2. In order to carry out the intent of the preceding section, it is hereby made the duty of
the probate judges of the several counties of this Territory, and they are hereby required to pro-
vide at the expense of their respective counties such book or books as may be necessary and suita-
ble in which to enter the record hereinbefore provided for. The fees for recording such notice shall
~be ten cents for every one hundred words.
SEC. 3. That in estimating the worth of labor required to be preformed upon any mining claim,
to hold the same by the laws of the United States, in the regulation of mines, the value of a day's
labor is hereby fixed at the sum of four dollars : Provided, however, that in the sense of this statute,
«ight hours of labor actually preformed upon the mining claim shall constitute a day's labor.
SEC. 4. All locations heretofore made in good faith, to which there shall be no adverse claims
the certificate of which locations have been or may be filed for record and recorded in the recor.
der's office of the county where the location is made within six months after the passage of this
act, are hereby confirmed and made valid. But where there may appear to be any such adverse
claim, the said locations shall be held to be the property of the person having the superior title or
claim, according to the laws in force at the time of the making of the said locations.
SEC. 5. An action of ejectment will lie for the recovery of the possession of a mining claim, as
"wrell also of any real estate, where the party suing has been wrongfully ousted from the possession
thereof, and the possession wrongfully detained.
SEC. 6. That "an act concerning mining claims," approved January 18th, 1865, and an act
amendatory thereof, approved January 3d, 1866 ; also, an act entitled an act to amend certain acts
concerning mining claims in the Territory of New Mexico, approved January 1st, 1872 ; be and the
same are hereby repealed : Provided, That no locations completed or commenoed under said acts
shall be invalidated or in any wise affected by such repeal.
SEC. 7. That this act shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage.
Approved January 11, 1876.
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
L. V .................................. Las Vegas
E. L. Y ........................... East Las Yegas
W. L. V .......................... West Las Yegas
"W. S.P ........................... West Side Plaza
IE. S. P ............................ East Side Plaza
S. S. P ........................ ." .South Side Plaza
:N. S. P .......................... North Side Plaza
S. S. S ........................ South Second Street
R. R. S ............................ Railroad Street
N. S. C ................... North Side Center Street
S. S. C ....... ............ South Side Center Street
H. S ............................... ..Hot Springs
Allison, H. H., Sewing Machines, E. L. Y.
Barney, A. C., Metropolitan Res't., E. L. Y.
Browning, E. R., Real Estate Ag't, E. L. Y.
Blanchard, C., Hardware, E. S. P., W. L. Y.
Blake. J. C., Harness Mfg, S. S. S., W. L. Y.
Brunswick, M., Gen'l Mdse., N. S. P., W. L. Y.
Brown & Manzanares, Corn's. Merchants, E. L. Y.
Bayley, R., Physician, S. S. C., E. L. Y
C
Cunningham, J. M., Physician, H. S. & L. Y.
Chapman, T. F., St. Nicholas Hotel, E. L. Y.
36 HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
Croxford, Geo., Harness M'f'g, E. S. P., W. L. V.
Crawford & Co., Groceries, E. S. P., W. L. V.
Dougher & Baca, Liquors, N. S. P., W. L. V.
Bold, A., Gen'l Mdse., W. S. P., W. L. V.
Furlong, J. N., Photographer, W. L. V.
Friedman, M. & Bro., Wool Dealers, W. L. V.
Flinn, J., Barber, E. L. Y.
Fleeman, T. J., Tailor, E. S. P., W. L. V.
• Q-
Gross, J., Cashier San Miguel Bank, S. S. P., W. L. V.
Geoffrion & Desmarais, Gen'l Mdse., S. S. P., W. L. V.
Gardner & Gilles, Clothing, K. K. S., E. L. V.
Giffin, A. F., Dentist, W. L. V.
Gildig, J. A., P. O. Newstand, W. L. V.
Graaf, J. & Co., Bakery & Kes't, N: S. P., W. L. V.
Hutchinson & Co., Livery Stable, E. L. V.
Heise, H., Liquors, S. S. P., W. L. V.
Houghton, O. L., Hardware, E. & W. L. V.
Holzman, P., Gen'l Mdse., K. K. S., E. L. V.
Hopper Bros., Grocers & Kes't, K. K. S., E. L. V.
Herbert, E. E. & Co., Druggists, E. & W. L. V.
Hilty Bros., Grocers, N. S. C., E. L. V.
I
Hfeld, C., Gen'l Mdse., N. S. P., W. L. V.
J
Jaffa Bros., Gen'l Mdse., E. & W. L. V.
HISTORICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO. 37
Jones, T. A., Delmonico"Ees't, S. S. P., W. L. V.
Koogler, J. H., Daily & Weekly Gazette, S. S. S., W. L. V.
Kistler, A. E., Daily Optic, E. L. V.
Kohn, Y., Wool Dealer, E. S. P., W. L. V.
Lock & Lockwood, Occidental Parlors, E. E. S., E. L. V.
Labadie, A., Barber, S. S. P., W. L. V.
Levy, Cohn & Co., Clothiers, S. S.P., W. L. V.
Lockhart & Co., Planing Mill, E. L. Y.
Lewelling, J. W., Livery, E. L. V.
Mendenhall & Co., Livery, W. L. V.
Mills, T. B., Pub. N. M. Mining Laws, W. L, V.
Marcus, M. D., Grocer, S. S. C., E. L. V.
McDonald, E. G., Liquors, E. L. V.
Moore, W. S., Adobe Hotel, H. S.
IbT
Nesbit, A., Mackley House, E. E. S., E. L. V.
O
Otero, Seller & Co., Com. Merchants, E. L. V.
IP
Pettijohn, N. J., Physician, L. V. & H. S.
Prichard, G. W., Lawyer, E. L. V.
IB
Eosenwald, J. & Co., Genl Mdse., S. S. P., W. L. V.
Eichmond, E. C., Jeweler, E. E. S., E. L. V.
Eeynolds, J., Pres. First National Bank, W. S. P., W. L. V.
HISTOLICAL SKETCH OF LAS VEGAS, NFW MEXICO.
Romero, H. & Bro., Gen'l Mdse., E. S. P., W. L. V.
Rutenbeck, T., Jeweler, S. S. P., W. L. V.
Eomero, M., Gen'l. Mdse., W. S. P., W. L. V.
Eomero, T. Bro. & Son, Gen'l Mdse., S. S. P., W. L. V.
Rosenthal, N. L., Gen'l Mdse., R. R. S., E. L. V.
Robbins, A. O., Furniture, E. S. P., W. L. V.
S
Shields, D. P., Attorney, W. S. P., W. L. V.
Somerville & Finane, Painters, E. L. V.
Skipwith, E. H., Physician, L. V. & H. S.
Shout, J. H., Physician, W. L. V.
Steele, W., Real Estate & J. P., E. L. V.
Shupp,W. H., Wagon M'f'g, E. S. P., W. L. V.
Sutfin, J. H., Grand Yiew Hotel, S. S. S., W. L. V.
Stern, L, Gen'l. Mdse., S. S. P., W. L. Y.
Sumner, Geo., Sumner House, S. S. P., W. L. Y.
Wheelock, C., Architect, S. S. S., W. L. Y.
Wesche, C. E., Gen'l Mdse., W. S. P., W.L. Y.
The first-class and largest Hotel in
Most centrally located, and entirely new.
Neatness, comfort and good treatment to all.
Hates— $3 per Cay, $14 per Week.
T. F. CHAPMAN, Proprietor.
ESTABLISHED 1863.
J. Rosen wald & Co.,
-Dealers in-
Clothing, Hats, Furnishing Goods, Notions,
Boots and Shoes, Stationery,
Hardware, Queensware, Groceries,
LIQUORS, TOBACCOS, ETC.,
Wool, Hides and Country Produce bought at the Highest Market Price
Las Vesas> N- M-
TIHIIE
Oecii
Finest in the Territory !
GENTLEMEN WILL ALWAYS FIND
Mumm g Extra Dry
and Heidsick
Imported and Key West Cigars.
Free Lnnch at all times-Open Day and Night
LOCK c& ZiOCZWOOD, Proprietors,
i
Las Vegas, N. M.
IPliilip KColzni3.ii
Dealer in
General Merchandise,
(Opposite Otero, Sellar & Co.,)
Main Street, EAST LAS VEGAS.
Hides, Pelts, Wool and Cigars.
G. W. PRICHARD,
East Las Vegas, N. M
J. W. LEWELLING,
Sale and Feed Corral,
EAST LAS VEGAS, N. M.
Hacks to and from Hot Springs.
Good Bigs and Careful Drivers.
Ziockh,art <& Co.,
Proprietors
LasYegas Planing Mill,
Sash, Door and Blind Factory,
Las Vegas, N. M.
Theo. Rutenbeck,
Watchmaker and Jeweler,
LAS VEGAS, N. M.
Dealer in
Watches, Clocks,
American and Mexican
Filigree Jewelry.
H. Romero c& Bro.
Wholesale and Ketail Dealers
in all kinds of
MERCHANDISE!
—And Dealers in-
Cattle and Sheep,
LAS VEGAS, N. M.
Hair Dresser,
Shaving, Hair Cutting, Sham-
pooing and Dyeing done
in first-class style,
Three doors south of Parker's Hotel,
LAS VEGAS, - NEW MEXICO.
J.H. Shout, M.D.,
Las Vegas, N. M.
Inquire at Hotels for Hutchinson & Co.'s Livery Stables.
The undersigned has for sale the most de-
sirable locations for either business or residence
in the town of
East Las Vegas.
This new American town is delightfully loca-
ted on the railroad adjacent to the old town of
Las Vegas. Information concerning lots and
prices given on application, in person or by let-
ter, to
E. R BROWNING,
Real Estate, Collecting arid Insurance Agent,
Office west of St. Nicholas Hotel. EAST LAS VEGAS, N. M.
Wholesale and Retail Dealer in
GENERAL MERCHANDISE.
i VJLI v JL ±±±i \ vi i
BOOTS AND SHOES,
Las Vegas— New Mexico— Lincoln.
Telegraph orders promptly attended to. Hutchinson & Co,, Las Vegas Livery Stable.
-Dealer in-
General Merchandise,
Notions and Fancy Goods,
Ladies1 Fancy and Dress
Very Latest Styles of Novelties always on hand.
I keep Everything:.
Las Vegas, New Mexico.
T. BOMEKO. E. EOMEKO. S. KOMEKO, JE.
* Romero Bro. & Son,
Wholesale and Eetail Dealers in
-ALSO-
Cattle and Sheep,
Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Inquire at Hotels for Hutchinson & Co.'s Livery Stables.
Las Vegas, New Mexico.
Centrally Located on the Plaza,
Well Furnished and Comfortable Rooms,
Commanding Finest Views in the Place,
The Table always furnished with all the
Varieties the Market affords.
9 - - $2.50 a Day.
Special Bates by the Week and to Families.
GEO. SUMNER, Proprietor.
ANDRES BOLD,
Wholesale and Retail Dealer in
;
Northwest Corner Public Square,
LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
All the Daily Papers,
All the Illustrated
Papers and Magazines,
Recent Popular Publications,
General Reading Matter,
Stationery, Etc., Etc., Etc.
-AT-
EASTERN PRICES.
l IP-
Post-Office News Stand,
LAS VEGAS, N. M.
Inquire at Hotels for Hutchinson & Co.'s Livery Stables.
LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO,
Proprietor of the-; —
Exchange Hotelr
And Dealer in-
1
John Dougher. ! Francisco Baca. y Sandovall
DOUCHES & BACA,
Wholesale and Retail Dealers
in Choice
Sole Agents in New Mexico for
DIO32I BIBOS.*
CELEBRATED
LAGER BEER,
Santa Fe, Las Vegas,
NEW MEXICO.
See Hutchinson & Co. for Transportation to the Hot Springs.
Thomas J. Fleeinan,
MERCHANT TAILOR,
Chapman's Building, northeast
corner Plaza,
LAS VEGAS, NEW MEXICO.
ALL WORK 0-TJARANTEED.
IDOCTOIH,
K. H. SKIPWITH,
Hot Springs and Las Vegas,
NEW MEXICO.
Someryille & Finane,
Houses Sign Painters
Graining and Paper Hanging,
East Las Vegas, N. M.
RUSSELL BAYLY,
Physician and Surgeon,
Office Center St. East La 3 Vegas, K. M.
Treats Chronic Diseases.
R. C. RICHMOND,
WATCHMAKER,
—And Dealer in—
Elgin Watches, Clocks and Fine Jewelry
Las Vegas, N. M.
Watches and Jewelry Repaired and Cleaned.
Real Estate, Collecting Agent
-AND
Justice of the Peace,
East Las Vegas, N. M.
DR. A. F. GIFFIN,
UDElsTTTST,
Rooms, North Side Plaza,
Las Vegas, N. M.
N. L. Hosenthal,
—Dealer in—
General Merchandise,
East Las Yegas,
New Mexico.
See Hutchinson & Co. for Transportation to the Hot Springs.
R. G. McDonald,
-Dealer in-
Llpors, Wines and Cig
Sole Agent in New Mexico for
Philip Best & Co.'s Famous Milwaukee Beer
In Kegs ami Bottles,
MAIN STEEET,
East Las Vegas, New Mexico.
J, H, KOOGLER, Editor and Proprietor,
Established in 1872. The leading paper of New Mexico, and the
only Daily Morning Paper with full Associated Press Ke-
port. Circulates in all parts of the Territory,
Eastern Arizona and the Texas Pan-
Handle.
Daily, $10 per year; Weekly, $3 per year.
Advertising Bates made known on application.
Inquire at Hotels for Hutch inson & Co.'s Livery Stables.
HEW
CLOTHING
In.
EAST LAS VEGAS.
The Delmonico of New Mexico !
American and European Plans.
Private Dinners and Catering of all sorts a specialty.
Finest Confectionery and Fruits of the Season al-
ways on hand.
Ice Cream and Soda Water in Season.
T. A. JONES, Las Vegas, N. M.
THE ADOBE,
Hot Springs and Las Vegas,
PER,PINT,COMFORTABLE
Stop at The Adobe for convenience, comfort,
and first-class treatment.
W. S. MOORE, Proprietor.
-Dealer in —
Hardware and StoYGS7
AND EVERY KIND OF
9
Las Vegas, N. M.
Telegraph orders promptly attended to, Hutchinson & Co,, Las Vegas Livery Stable.
GEORGE J. DINKEL, JEFFERSON KATNOLDS,
Cashier. President.
MST NATIONAL BANK
LAS VEGAS,
NEW MEXICO.
F. E. HERBERT & CO,
IN
Choice Liquors of all kinds,
Stationery, Tobacco and Cigars.
Also carry a full line of Toilet Articles.
East and West LAS YEGAS.
NEW MEXICO.
BROWNE Y MANZANARES,
Comerciantes For Mayor En Toda Clase De
Botas, Zapatos, Sombreros, GorrasyRopaHecha,
Carros, Aradoe y Toda Clase de Implemeiitos de Agricultura.
LAS VEGAS, NUEVO MEXICO.
Tendremos Almacenes Amplios y Seguiremos El Negocio De Comisionistas
y Kemitidores De Efectos Al Fin Del Ferro Oarril.
-JOBBERS OF-
Groceries, Dry Goods, Boots, Shoes,
HATS, CAPS, CLOTHING,
Plows, Agricultural Implements, Etc.
Forwarding House at end of Railroad Track.
HI
Wholesale and
Commission
MerchantsT
Las Vegas, IT. M.
OIF1
General Merchandise.
Southern Calilornia, New Mexico and Arizona
SOXjIOI'-L'-tllD.
Satisfaction Guaranteed.
Chicago, Burlington & QnincyRl
IMFORTMT IHFOSHATIOH.
PASSENGERS FROM
Trinidad, Santa Fe, Los Yegas, Santa Rosa, Albuquerque, San Marosa, San Pedro,
Alamosa, San Diego, £1 Paso, Silver City, Shakespeare Mines,
San Simone, or any point in
NEW MEXICO
— GOING TO —
Chicago, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Pittskg, Baltimore, Washington,
OB ANY POINT IN THE
EAST OR NORTH-EAST,
Should Purchase Tickets over the
ATCHISON, TOPEKA, & SANTA FE RAILROAD
In Connection with the
Chicago, Burlington & Quincy R. R.
VIA ATCHISON OR KANSAS CITY.
From Atchison or Kansas City Two Fast Trains are run daily through TO CHICAGO
WITHOUT CHANGE. These trains are equipped with
PULLMAN PALACE SLEEPING CARS,
Superior First Class Coaches and Smoking Cars., C., B. & Q. PAL-ACE DRAWING
ROOM CAKS, fitted with Elegant Reclining Chairs— seats free— and the Famous Dining Cars,
run only by his line, upon which meals are served equal in quality to any first class hotel, at the
moderate price of Seventy -Five Cents.
All the modern improvements which will secure to the Passenger any additional safety, com-
fort or luxury, have been adopted and are now being used on the
Chicago, Burlington1 & Quinoy R. R.
STEEL TRACK, Stone Ballast, Iron Bridges, Elegant and Improved Coa hes, and in fact everything
that can be secured to make this line superior to any other leading East from Colorado, New
Mexico and Arizona.
Passengers by this line connect with all Eastern Tines from Chicago, and are transferred be-
tween depots free of ex^ens". Bates and information of any kind can be obtained by applying to
our Agent. Mr. J. MILNEB, at Denver, Colorado.
See that your tickets read by the CHICAGO, BUKLINGTON & QUINCY R. R., and
remember that this line offers you all tha comforts and luxuries of modern travel.
N. B.— Passengers going either "Westward or Eastward should take advantage of the many
inducements offered the traveling public by the popular CHICAGO, BURLINGTON &
' * IK*
D. W. HITCHCOCK, J. R. WOOD,
G. W. P. A., Chicago. G. P. A., Chicago-
C. W. SMITH,
Traffic Manager. CHICAGO.
The Largest, Best, Oldest and Most
Reliable Journal devoted to Ho-
tel Interests in the World,
NOW IN ITS TENTH VOLUME!
The recognized authority upon all Hotel
Matters.
Contains more and better Hotel News and
Notes than all other hotel papers combined.
A Reliable Guide to the Best Hotels in all
parts of the United States and Canadas.
As an organ of the Interests of Summer
Resorts, especially in the West and Northwest, it has
no equal
It is not excelled as an Advertising Medium.
Attention is called to the following
FACTS FOR HOTEL MEN.
I THE HOTEL WORLD is the oldest hotel journal in the world.
THE HOTEL WORLD is the largest hotel paper in Ihe world.
THE HOTEL WORLD has the largest circulation of any hotel
paper in the world.
THE HOTEL WORLD contains the largest number of hotel
advertisement of any paper in the world.
For advertising rates, terms of subscription
and sample copies, address -with stamp
2. J. BOH1T <& CO., Publishers,
69 Dearborn Street
Grant Tiew
South Second Street,
Las Vegas, N. M.
DHIOTJTSEJ.
ALL NECESSARY ARRANGEMENTS made
for the Transportation of Guests and Bag-
gage to the HOT SPRINGS, or any
part of LAS VEGAS and Vicinity.
The sleeping rooms of the Hotel are on the second floor, and
are clean, comfortable and have perfect ventilation.
The Table always supplied with the Best the Market affords.
Dr. J, H, SVTFIN, Proprietor,
WHO IS UNACQUAINTED,™ THE CEOCRAPHY O^TH.S^OUNTRY. WILL
CHICAGO, ROCK ISLAND & PACIFIC R. R.
IS THE GREAT CONNECTING LINK BETWEEN THE EAST & THE WEST !
Its main line runs from Chicago to Council
Bluffs, passing through Joliet, Ottawa, La Salle,
Geneseo. Moline, Rock Island, Davenport, West
Liberty. Iowa City. Marengo. Brooklyn, Grinnell,
Des Moines (the capital of Iowa), Stuart, Atlan-
tic, and Avoca ; with branches from Bureau
Junction to Peoria; Wilton Junction to Musca-
tine, Washington, Fairfleld, Eldon, Belknap,
Centreville, Princeton. Trenton. Gallatin. Came-
ron, Leavenworth, Atchison. and Kansas City;
Washington to Sigourney, Oskaloosa, and Knox-
ville; Keokuk to Farmington, Bonaparte, Ben-
tonsport, Independent. Eldon, Ottumwa, Eddy-
ville, Oskaloosa. Pella, Monroe, and Des Moines;
Newton to Monroe; Des Moines to Indianolaand
Winterset; Atlantic to Lewis and Audubon; and
Avoca to Harlan. This is positively the only
Railroad, which owns, and operates a through
line from Chicago into the State of Kansas.
Through Express Passenger Trains, with Pull-
man Palace Cars attached, are run each way daily
between CHICAGO and PEORIA, KANSAS CITY,
COUNCIL BLUFFS, LEAVENWORTH and ATCHI-
SON*. Through cars are also run between Milwau-
kee and Kansas City, via the "Milwaukee and
Rock Island Short Line."
The "Great Rock Island" is magnificently
equipped. Its road bed is simply perfect, and its
track is laid with steel rails.
What will please you most will be the pleasure
of enjoying your meals, while passing over the
beautiful prairies of Illinois and Iowa, in one of
our magnificent Dining Cars that accompany all
Through Express Trains. You get an entire
meal, as good as is served in any first-class hotel,
for seventy-five cents.
Appreciating the fact that a majority of the
people prefer separate apartments for different
purposes (and the immense passenger business
of this line warranting it), we are pleased to an-
nounce that this Company runs Pullman Palace
Sleeping Cars for sleeping purposes, and Palace
Dining Cars for eating purposes only. One other
great feature of our Palace Cars is a SMOKING
SALOON where you can enjoy your "Havana"
at all hours of the day.
Magnificent Iron Bridges span the Mississippi
and Missouri rivers at all points crossed by this
line, and transfers are avoided at Council Bluffs,
Kansas City, Leavenworth, and Atchison, con-
nections being made in Union Depots.
THE PRINCIPAL R. R. CONNECTIONS OF
THIS GREAT THROUGH LINE ARE AS
FOLLOWS :
At CHICAGO, with all diverging lines for the
East and South.
At ENGLEWOOD, with the L. S. & M. S., and P.,
Ft. W. &C. R. Rds.
At WASHINGTON HEIGHTS, with P., C. & St.
L. R. R.
At LA SALLE. with 111. Cent. R. R.
At PEORIA, with P. P. & J.; P. D. & E.; I. B. &
W.; 111. Mid.; and T. P. & W. Rds.
At ROCK ISLAND, with "Milwaukee & Rock
Island Short Line," and Rock Isl'd & Peo. Rds.
At DAVENPORT, with the Davenport Division
C.M. &St. P. R. K.
At WEST LIBERTY, with theB.. C. R. & N. R. R.
At GRINNELL. with Central Iowa R. R.
At DES MoiNES. with D. M. & F. D. R. R.
At COUNCIL BLUFFS, with Union Pacific R. R.
At OMAHA, with B. & Mo. R. R. R. in Neb.)
At COLUMBUS J UNCTioN.with B.,C. R. & N. R.R.
At OTTUMWA, with Central lowaR. R. ; W.,
St. L. & Pac.. and C. B. & Q. R. Rds.
At KEOKUK, with Tol., Peo. & War.; Wab.. St.
Louis & Pac., and St. L., Keo. & N.-W. R. Kds.
At CAMERON, with H. St. J. R. R.
At ATCHISON, with Atch.. Topeka & Santa Fe;
Atch. & Neb. and Cen. Br. U. P. R. Rds.
At LEAVENWORTH, with Kan. Pac., and Kan.
Cent. R. Rds.
At KANSAS CITY, with all lines for the West
and Southwest.
PUMPMAN PALACE CARS are run through to PEORIA, DES MOIXES,
COUNCIL BL.UFFS, KANSAS CITY, ATCHISON, and LEAVEN WORTH.
Tickets via this Line, known as the "Great Rock Island Route," are sold by
all Ticket Agents in the United States and Canada.
For Information not obtainable at your home ticket office, address,
A. KIMBALL, E. ST. JOHN,
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