Mangas, New Mexico facts for kids

Mangas was once a small town in Catron County, New Mexico. Today, it's known as a "ghost town" because no one lives there anymore. It's a place that used to be busy but is now quiet and empty.

What Was Mangas?

Mangas was a community where people lived and worked. It was officially recognized as a populated place, meaning it was a known settlement on maps and records. Over time, like many small towns, its residents moved away, and the town eventually disappeared.

The Story Behind the Name

Mangas had a few different names during its history.

• First, it was called Pinoville. A post office opened there under this name in 1905.
• Then, in 1909, the name was changed to Mangus.
• Finally, the town became known as Mangas. This name honors a famous Native American leader named Mangas Coloradas. He was an important chief of the Apache people.

The post office, which was a central part of the community, closed down in 1943. This often happens when a town's population gets too small to support its services.