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Watrous

in new mexico|us 85 u.s. route 85, Watrous, New Mexico USA

Independent

Watrous, also named La Junta, is a National Historic Landmark District near Watrous, New Mexico. It encompasses the historic junction point of the two major branches of the Santa Fe Trail, a major 19th-century frontier settlement route between St. Louis, Missouri and Santa Fe, New Mexico. La Junta, marked this junction point, as well as the first major indications of civilization before westbound travelers reached Santa Fe. The district includes a large area west of the modern community of Watrous, encompassing the confluence of the Mora and Sapello Rivers. Surviving buildings include the houses of early ranchers, as well as a stagecoach mailstop and inn. The district was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1963.

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Reviewed by
roadtripper251849

5 Reviews
0 Helpful

June 22, 2022

Rated 1.0

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Reviewed by
zinleytx

1 Review
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August 10, 2019

Samuel B. Watrous was born in Connecticut, orphaned while still young and was sent to live with an uncle. Not happy having to rise early, do chores before breakfast and labor all day long, he left and joined a wagon train and headed for Taos, New Mexico. While there, he clerked at a store but soon caught the urge to try his luck at mining. He headed for San Pedro but found mining not to his liking and decided to earn his living as a storekeeper and farmer. Watrous acquired some land in 1846 to start a farming and mercantile business. Over the years, the farm and business affairs of Watrous flourished and he became a respected member of the community. In 1879, it was learned the Santa Fe Railroad would build through the settlement. Watrous promptly donated land for the right-of-way, station and yards. When finished, he was totally surprised to the see the name WATROUS on the new station's name board. Railroad officials said it was the least they could do for such a public-spirited citizen of the community. Submitted by Henry Chenoweth.

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