La Cueva, Mora County, New Mexico facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
La Cueva
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Unincorporated community
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| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Mora |
| Established | 1851 |
| Founded by | Vicente Romero |
| Area | |
| • Total | 0.7 sq mi (1.9 km2) |
La Cueva is a small, unincorporated community located in Mora County, New Mexico. It sits right where two state roads, 442 and 518, meet. The community is nestled along the Mora River, which adds to its peaceful setting.
Contents
History of La Cueva
How La Cueva Started
La Cueva was founded in 1851 by a man named Vicente Romero. He chose this spot because it was close to Fort Union, a military fort. Being near the fort offered protection from the Apache people. It also gave him a good place to sell the crops he grew.
The name La Cueva comes from a fun story. Legend says that Vicente Romero lived in a nearby cave while he was building his ranch house. In Spanish, la cueva means "the cave." So, that's how the village got its name.
Growth and Development
As Vicente Romero and his neighbors worked hard, their community grew. In the early 1860s, he built a grist mill. This mill helped grind grains into flour for the local people.
La Cueva even had its own post office for many years, from 1868 until 1961. This shows how important the community was for sending and receiving mail.
Protecting History: The Historic District
In 1973, the La Cueva Historic District became a special historical district. It is now listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places. This district helps protect about 470 acres (1.9 square kilometers) of land.
It includes many important old buildings. You can find the original grist mill, the first San Rafael Church, and an old general store. The 1851 Romero ranch house, where Vicente Romero lived, is also part of this protected area. These places help us remember the early days of La Cueva.
The Salman Ranch and Community Events
Later, a man named David Salman bought the La Cueva Ranch. He worked to make the ranch productive again, especially by growing raspberries and other farm products. He was the president of the Salman Ranch from 1960 to 2002. David Salman also served as a New Mexico House Representative, helping to make laws for the state.
In April 1980, there was a discussion about holding a large music and ecology festival on the 36,000-acre ranch. This event was expected to attract many people to the area.
La Cueva Lake
Just about 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) east of the village, you'll find La Cueva Lake. It's a peaceful spot near the community.
