Lincoln, New Mexico facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Lincoln, New Mexico
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Lincoln Courthouse and Jail, where Billy the Kid was held
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 Lincoln, New Mexico
Location in New Mexico
Lincoln, New Mexico
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | New Mexico |
| County | Lincoln |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 189 |
| Time zone | UTC-7 (Mountain (MST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-6 (MDT) |
Lincoln is a small, historic village in Lincoln County, New Mexico, United States. It is not officially part of a city or town, making it an unincorporated community.
Discover Lincoln: A Historic New Mexico Village
Lincoln is nestled in the beautiful Bonito Valley. This valley sits between the Sacramento Mountains and the Capitan Mountains. The village is about 5,696 feet (1,736 meters) above sea level. It is located about 57 miles (92 km) west of Roswell. The Lincoln National Forest is just north of the village.
In 2010, Lincoln had 189 residents. The village is built along a one-mile stretch of U.S. Route 380. This road is also known as the Billy the Kid Trail. It is the only main street in the village. Many old buildings from the late 1800s are still standing. Some of these have been saved and are now public museums.
The Village's Early History and Name Change
Mexican families first settled here in the 1850s. They called the area "La Placita del Rio Bonito." This means "The Place by the Pretty River." The name changed to Lincoln on January 16, 1869. This happened when Lincoln County was created.
Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid's Legacy
Lincoln was at the center of the Lincoln County War. This conflict took place from 1876 to 1879. Today, Lincoln is famous for its connections to Billy the Kid. The village hosts an annual event called Old Lincoln Days in August. This festival includes a play about The Last Escape of Billy the Kid.
Lincoln's Special Historic Status
Lincoln has been named the Lincoln Historic District by the U.S. government. It is also a New Mexico State Monument called the Lincoln Historic Site. Thanks to these honors and local efforts, Lincoln is one of the best-preserved Old West towns. It is also the most visited monument in New Mexico.
A Look at Lincoln During World War II
During World War II, an old camp near Lincoln was used. It was called the Old Raton Ranch. For about a year, it held Japanese American railroad workers and their families. These 32 people were from Clovis, New Mexico. They were moved to Lincoln on January 23, 1942. Unlike other camps, people here could not go to school or work. On December 18, 1942, they were moved to larger camps.
Explore Lincoln: Fun Things to Do and See
Places to Eat and Stay in Lincoln
- The historic Wortley Hotel opened in 1874. It was once owned by Pat Garrett. It still welcomes guests today.
- The Bonito Valley Brewing Company offers local beers and other drinks.
- Annie's Little Sureshot Cafe serves coffee and snacks.
- Meals are also available at the historic Dolan House.
Visit Lincoln's Historic Attractions
Lincoln has many historic buildings. Nine of them are open to the public as museums. These are managed by New Mexico Historic Sites.
- The Courthouse is famous. It is where Billy the Kid made his final escape.
- Other important sites include the Tunstall Store.
- You can also visit the Convento.
- The Torreon is another key spot.
- The Anderson Freeman Visitor's Center has exhibits. These show the history of Lincoln and the Bonito Valley.
Nearby Places to Explore
- Fort Stanton Historic Site
- Smokey Bear Historical Park
- Snowy River Cave
