Dawson and Dawson Cemetery
Historical marker location:
County Road A38 off US 64, Cimarron vicinity, New Mexico
( 5 miles west off US 64 at end of road (14 miles NE of Cimarron))
Side 1
Dawson was established by the Phelps Dodge Corporation in 1901 to develop the region’s vast coal deposits. In its heyday, it was the largest company mining town in New Mexico, with many modern amenities, and a population of more than 6000. Named after John Dawson, who owned part of the historic Beaubien – Miranda land grant on which it is located, the town was abandoned when the mines closed in 1950.Side 2
This was the cemetery for the coal mining town of Dawson. Its grave markers reflect the diverse immigrant populations which came to this country seeking a better life, and which fueled America’s industrial development. Hundreds of identical crosses, which mark the graves of miners killed in mine accidents in 1913 and 1923, demonstrate the great sacrifices of these pioneersThe 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.
About Colfax County
Colfax County Timeline
Colfax County, located in northeastern New Mexico, has a rich history that begins with the indigenous peoples who inhabited the area for centuries before European arrival. The region was predominantly occupied by various Native American tribes such as the Ute, Apache, and Comanche. The Spanish Empire claimed the territory in the 16th century, establishing settlements and missions. However, due to conflicts with the indigenous peoples, Spanish presence was limited in Colfax County.
In the early 19th century, American fur traders and trappers began entering the region, and the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route, was established. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, following the Mexican-American War, officially transferred Colfax County along with the rest of New Mexico to the United States. With the influx of settlers, conflicts arose between Hispanic settlers and Anglo-Americans, leading to the Colfax County War in the late 1800s. This violent land dispute between the two groups resulted in several deaths but eventually culminated in the establishment of law and order in the county.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Colfax County saw economic developments such as the rise of coal mining and cattle ranching. Towns like Elizabethtown and Raton experienced significant growth due to these industries. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in the area further boosted economic activity and facilitated transportation.
In more recent history, Colfax County has focused on preserving its natural resources and promoting tourism as well. The establishment of Philmont Scout Ranch, a large high-adventure camp, has attracted visitors from around the world. Additionally, the county is known for its beautiful landscapes, including parts of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Cimarron River Valley.
Overall, Colfax County, New Mexico, has a diverse and storied history that encompasses Native American presence, Spanish colonization, conflicts with settlers, economic development, and a focus on natural resources and tourism.
In the early 19th century, American fur traders and trappers began entering the region, and the Santa Fe Trail, a major trade route, was established. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, following the Mexican-American War, officially transferred Colfax County along with the rest of New Mexico to the United States. With the influx of settlers, conflicts arose between Hispanic settlers and Anglo-Americans, leading to the Colfax County War in the late 1800s. This violent land dispute between the two groups resulted in several deaths but eventually culminated in the establishment of law and order in the county.
Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Colfax County saw economic developments such as the rise of coal mining and cattle ranching. Towns like Elizabethtown and Raton experienced significant growth due to these industries. The arrival of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway in the area further boosted economic activity and facilitated transportation.
In more recent history, Colfax County has focused on preserving its natural resources and promoting tourism as well. The establishment of Philmont Scout Ranch, a large high-adventure camp, has attracted visitors from around the world. Additionally, the county is known for its beautiful landscapes, including parts of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and the Cimarron River Valley.
Overall, Colfax County, New Mexico, has a diverse and storied history that encompasses Native American presence, Spanish colonization, conflicts with settlers, economic development, and a focus on natural resources and tourism.
Colfax County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Colfax County, New Mexico.
- 1852: Colfax County is created by the New Mexico Territory legislature.
- 1860: The county becomes a part of the Maxwell Land Grant, which encompasses large portions of northern New Mexico.
- 1869: The county seat is established in Cimarron.
- 1870: The Colfax County War, a violent conflict over land rights, starts and continues until 1878.
- 1888: The Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway reaches the county, boosting economic development.
- 1931: The historic Philmont Scout Ranch is established in Colfax County.
- 1968: The NRA Whittington Center, one of the largest shooting sports facilities in the world, is opened in the county.
- 1990: The movie "Young Guns II" is filmed in the county, boosting tourism and interest in local history.