Traveling New Mexico

Scattered across New Mexico are over 500 scenic historic markers that give brief historical facts about the area and provide interesting clues to New Mexico's vividness. This comprehensive guide gives locations of the markers, the information as it appears on each marker, and names and addresses for further information. Reading one marker, you can imagine how it would feel to ride shotgun with Sheriff Pat Garrett as he chases the elusive Billy the Kid. Another marker helps you explore the area where Pat was later murdered in a still unsolvable crime. You can even discover tracks left by a dinosaur, and find proof of early man long before the rise and fall of the mysterious Anasazi. There are places where early farming puebloeans left their ghosts and ruins , and you can follow in the footsteps of early explorers such as Vasquez de Coronado, Antonio de Espejo, and others as they search for gold and claim this land for Spain. There are places where settlers created the Santa Fe Trail and the Butterfield and Cooke's stage routes. You'll marvel at how three cultures have met to create the unique land called New Mexico. Whether you are a resident or a visitor, you will find this to be a valuable guide while exploring the remarkable state of New Mexico. PHIL T. ARCHULETTA's experience with the historical markers as well as his love of New Mexico and its history have been life long. Owner and CEO of P&M Signs, Inc., he has been in the sign manufacturing business for over thirty years and has traveled the state, logging each marker, in order to preserve this aspect of New Mexico's colorful history. SHARYL S. HOLDEN, a professional photographer and writer, has been enchanted by the wide open spaces of New Mexico all her life. She and Phil have worked diligently to prepare this enjoyable guide for both tourists and residents.