Shakespeare, New Mexico facts for kids
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Shakespeare Ghost Town
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Shakespeare in 2012, seen from the hill to the southeast.
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 Location in New Mexico
Location in the United States
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| Location | Hidalgo County, New Mexico |
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| Nearest city | Lordsburg, New Mexico |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival, Mexican Village |
| NRHP reference No. | 73001141 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | July 16, 1973 |
Shakespeare is a fascinating ghost town located in Hidalgo County, New Mexico, United States. A ghost town is a place where people used to live and work, but now it's mostly empty. Today, Shakespeare is part of a private ranch. Sometimes, it opens its doors for visitors to explore its history. The whole community was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. This means it's a special place protected for its historical importance.
History of Shakespeare
Shakespeare started as a simple rest stop. It was a place for travelers to pause during their journeys. This stop was called Mexican Springs. It was located along a busy stagecoach route. A stagecoach was like an old-fashioned bus pulled by horses.
After the American Civil War, the town got a new name. It was renamed Grant to honor General U. S. Grant. Later, something exciting happened nearby. People discovered silver! This discovery turned Grant into a mining town. It was then renamed Ralston City. This new name honored a wealthy banker named William Chapman Ralston.
Finally, the town was given its last name: Shakespeare. The silver mines were very important to the town. But in 1929, the mines closed down. When the mines stopped working, most people left. This is how Shakespeare became a ghost town.
Images for kids
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The Stafford Hotel building in 2023
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The interior dining area of the old Stafford Hotel.
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The kitchen of the old Stafford Hotel building.
