Nestled in the pretty little valley cut by the Cuchillo Negro (Black Knife Creek), Cuchillo was a thriving, largely Hispanic farming community during the mining boom days of the 1880's. Its year-round water, fertile soil and strategic location on the stage run between the mining towns to the west and railroad to the east made Cuchillo an important trading stop for the local area ranchers and miners.

 

Today, Cuchillo is still home to a lucky few who enjoy it's quiet location. While most of the structures are modern you can still see the remains of the main store and bar. Just behind the store was the original location of the stables that housed the mules and horses that were used to haul freight and goods between the local mining centers. The beautiful, white stucco San Jose Church is still in use however the version that stands today was built in 1907, 3 generations removed from the original. Just to the east of the church can be seen the ruins of the old dance hall and a few other structures.

 Located just 15 miles from T or C, Cuchillo is one of the easiest living ghost towns to get to. If you're on the road to the better known towns of Winston and Chloride be sure and stop for awhile in Cuchillo and drink in the solitude and beauty of its little valley and importance if the history of Sierra County.

 
 
 
 
 
Cuchillo is located approximately 15 miles northeast of T or C. Take NM -181 exit 89 toward NM-52/Cuchillo/Monticello. Turn left onto NM-181/US-85 to Cuchillo
 
 
 
 

 

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