Historical Marker

Mescalero Apache Reservation


The Mescalero Apaches were named for their use of mescal for food. Their economy, based primarily on hunting, gathering and raiding and trading, the Mescaleros occupied much of south-central New Mexico in the 18th and 19th centuries. Since 1871, the Mescaleros have lived on a reservation of about half a million acres, located on part of their ancient homeland.