aztec mill

We wanted to do more than walk around the outside, but it was "closed for the season" in early November. That's really too bad. A beautiful, sunny, warm day for touring, and the place is closed up tight. Gated, so you can't go up to it either. Unfortunate.

When we stopped at the Visitors Center in Cimarron and explained that we were interested in the area because my grandfather had worked at the Horseshoe Ranch in the late 1800's, Candy called one of the volunteers at the Old Mill Museum. He arranged to meet us there, opened the building, and shared so much history of the area. It was the highlight of our day! Thank you so much, volunteers of the Old Mill Museum! You do a fantastic job!

Unique and fascinating history of northern New Mexico available in exhibits and from friendly staff. Free admission, but donations are accepted at this privately owned museum. Most of the famously familiar names of the second half of the 19th century at least passed thru this area because of the nearby Santa Fe trail and lure of wealth from gold, land or trade. You'll be amazed.

The mill is right down the road from the historic St. James Hotel and a couple of adorable and reasonably priced stores that specialize in locally made items and antiques. The mill is open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm (closed for lunch 12-1) and Sunday 1pm-4pm. Admission is free but donations are welcome. The mill has an eclectic collection of displays. Well worth the stop.

Lots of interesting things to see. A little tricky catching them open. Worth seeing if you have the time. Lots of local history and some curiosities.

The Old mill hasn't been used to mill grain since the 1870s, but there seems to be an item inside from every year since then. There is an incredible arrowhead collection, household items from the past hundred years, and even a stuffed two-headed (real) calf. There are four floors to this museum, and the grounds are beautiful -- perfect for a picnic. It is easy to get to -- the road across from the StJames (walking distance), and admission is free.