Mogollon Historic District

a.k.a. Mogollon

NM 78/Bursum Rd., Mogollon, NM
Local significance of the district:
Industry; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

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The state has a rich tradition of cowboy culture and rodeo, with many annual events celebrating this heritage. One of the most famous is the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which features hundreds of hot air balloons and draws thousands of visitors each year.
Catron County, located in the southwestern region of New Mexico, has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It is the largest county in the state and has been home to various indigenous groups, including the Apache and Navajo tribes. Before European settlement, these Native American communities utilized the land for hunting, gathering, and trading.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the region, bringing with them horses and establishing the area as part of New Spain. The Spanish influence remained strong for several centuries, with missions and settlements established throughout the area. However, it wasn't until the mid-19th century that non-indigenous settlers began to arrive in significant numbers.

By the 1860s, the discovery of gold and other precious minerals in nearby areas drew prospectors to Catron County. This led to the establishment of mining camps and towns, which experienced rapid growth. However, as the mining boom began to fade, the economy shifted towards ranching and agriculture. The development of railroads in the late 19th century further stimulated trade and transportation in the area.

Throughout its history, Catron County has remained closely tied to its traditional ranching and agricultural roots. Today, it is known for its rugged natural beauty, with expansive forests, mountains, and pristine wilderness areas. Catron County attracts tourists and outdoor enthusiasts seeking activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, and camping. It continues to honor its Native American heritage and maintains a strong sense of community, with a population that cherishes its deep historical and cultural roots.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Catron County, New Mexico.

  • 1870: Proposed to become a county in New Mexico Territory
  • 1880: Catron County officially established and named after Thomas B. Catron
  • 1892: Reserve becomes the county seat
  • 1920s: Economic decline due to depletion of natural resources
  • 1940s: Uranium mining increases in the county
  • 1950s-1960s: Establishment of the Gila Wilderness and creation of the Apache-Sitgreaves and Cibola National Forests
  • 1999: The Gila National Forest's Catron County territory affected by the largest wildfire in New Mexico history, the "Mud Fire"
  • 2000s: Various conservation and land management efforts in the county
  • 2010s: Ongoing rural population decline and economic challenges