The Buried Relics of the Pinos Altos Stagecoach Routes

The Buried Relics of the Pinos Altos Stagecoach Routes

The Pinos Altos area in southwestern New Mexico has a storied past that is inextricably linked with the stagecoach routes that once served the thriving mining towns of the 19th century. These routes were vital for transporting passengers, goods, and gold through a rugged terrain that both protected travelers and concealed myriad treasures. The lure of wealth, the dangers of the journey, and the vestiges of history have combined to create a rich tapestry of stories concerning the “buried relics” associated with these routes.

Historical Background of the Pinos Altos Stagecoach Routes

Pinos Altos, or “Pine Heights,” was originally established as a mining town following the discovery of silver in the early 1850s. The first significant strike occurred in 1859 when prospectors unearthed rich mineral deposits in the nearby hills. As news of the silver finds spread, Pinos Altos grew rapidly, attracting hundreds of miners and entrepreneurs. By the mid-1860s, it was a bustling town, boasting saloons, general stores, and a population that included both legitimate miners and those looking for fortune through less savory means.

In response to the burgeoning mining activities, stagecoach lines were established to facilitate travel and communication throughout the region. The primary route from the railhead at Mesilla through the Mimbres Valley connected the bustling town of Silver City to Pinos Altos and other mining settlements. The stagecoach line was crucial for bringing not only individuals but also supplies, mail, and riches from the mines to the outside world.

The stagecoach operations, often run by companies such as Wells Fargo, began to flourish in the late 1800s. The Pinos Altos route became notorious for its scenic views and treacherous trails. From 1850 until the widespread adoption of the railroad in the 1880s, stagecoaches plied these roads, carrying both passengers and cargo, until they were rendered largely obsolete.

Stagecoach Routes and their Challenges

Traveling the Pinos Altos stagecoach routes was no small feat, especially due to the region’s mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather. The primary route traversed the lush forests and rocky outcrops of the Gila Wilderness, passing through treacherous canyons. The daunting conditions made it both picturesque and perilous.

• Travel time: The journey from Silver City to Pinos Altos typically took six to eight hours.
• Riding conditions: Passengers often dealt with cramped quarters, dust storms, and the ever-present risk of robbery.
• Robberies: Stagecoaches were frequent targets for criminals and outlaws, leading to numerous infamous heists in the region.

The rise of banditry around the stagecoach routes warrants particular attention. The allure of gold and silver made these coaches prime targets. Notable outlaws such as Joseph “Black Jack” Ketchum and the notorious “Bishop” David Newheimer began to attract attention as they preyed upon these travelers. Tales of ambushes are seared into the lore of Pinos Altos, contributing to the mythos surrounding the valuables that are said to remain hidden in its shadowy hills.

Legend of the Buried Treasures

The legend of buried treasures associated with the Pinos Altos stagecoach routes has captivated treasure hunters and historians alike. Accounts of lost gold and silver, abandoned by stagecoaches following robberies or concealed by miners, tell of fortunes lying in wait. These stories have evolved into legends, spawning numerous searches and explorations throughout the years. Among the most famous tales include:

The Great Apache Treasure

During the tumultuous years of the Apache wars, a cache of gold was said to have been looted from a stagecoach transporting a miners’ pay to Pinos Altos. According to the lore, a band of Apaches ambushed the coach, killing the guards and taking the gold. The tales indicate that the Apache leader buried the treasure in a secret location, either hoping to recover it or to safeguard it from the incoming settlers.

• Year of the incident: The ambush supposedly occurred in
• Search quests: Numerous expeditions have attempted to locate the treasure, with various renditions of maps and compass directions circulating among treasure hunters.

The Lost Wells Fargo Gold

Another compelling story involves a Wells Fargo stagecoach that reportedly vanished in the late 1870s. Local legend claims the coach was laden with gold nuggets extracted from the nearby mines. When the stagecoach failed to arrive in Silver City, a search was launched. It is believed that the driver, spooked by an approaching band of robbers, hid the stash before being captured.

• Date of the disappearance: September 15,
• Last known location: The final stop was rumored to be near a hidden cave in the mountains surrounding Pinos Altos, accessible only by narrow, winding paths.

The Silver Cache of Pinos Altos

By the 1880s, silver demand had surged, leading to an extensive network of mining claims in the Pinos Altos area. Legend has it that a wealthy silver miner, fearing federal taxation, secreted away a fortune estimated to be worth over a million dollars. It remains an iconic tale among treasure hunters, with rumors that clues to the cache’s location can be found in old mining photographs and journals from the era.

• Estimated year of hiding:
• Current status: The rumored location of the cache is said to be marked by a distinctive outcropping known as “The Sentinel Stone.”

Historical Treasure Hunts and Expeditions

As stories of buried treasure spread, the Pinos Altos area became a significant point of interest for treasure hunters. Numerous expeditions were launched over the decades, driven by the possibility of uncovering hidden riches. Some of the more notable treasure hunts include:

The Pilgrim Expedition (1930)

One of the first organized treasure hunts in the region took place in 1930, led by a group of treasure hunters known as the Pilgrim Expedition. Armed with maps and anecdotes passed down through generations, they sought the lost Wells Fargo gold. Their expedition took them through the challenging terrain, but despite their efforts, the group returned empty-handed.

• Members: The expedition was comprised of local miners and a few experienced treasure hunters from other states.
• Findings: Although they discovered several historical artifacts, the treasure remained elusive, turning the hunt into an anecdote in local lore.

The Stony Brook Hunt (1955)

In the mid-1950s, a group of amateur archaeologists known as the Stony Brook Hunt took up the challenge of uncovering the Great Apache Treasure. Using modern tools and research, the team scoured the mountainous regions around Pinos Altos. They reported finding pieces of gold jewelry and mining tools, yet the main treasure remained hidden.

• Techniques employed: The expedition utilized metal detectors and geological surveys.
• Legacy: The group’s efforts led to increased public interest and even formal archaeological surveys in the region.

Recent Treasure Hunts (2000s)

In more recent years, numerous amateur and professional treasure hunters have continued to explore the possibilities of the Pinos Altos region. Using advanced technologies such as ground-penetrating radar and satellite imaging, modern hunters feel more equipped to uncover the lost treasures.

• Notable groups: Local treasure hunting clubs and historical societies have banded together to organize community efforts.
• Excavations: Several areas around Pinos Altos have been formally excavated, with clearances from heritage organizations to respect local historical significance.

Present-Day Pinos Altos and Its Attractions

Today, Pinos Altos serves as a reminder of its rich history and the lore of buried treasures. It has transformed into a destination for tourists and history enthusiasts, with attractions that strongly appeal to those intrigued by their past. Several events throughout the year, including treasure-hunting festivals, celebrate its history and wealth of stories.

Tourist Attractions

• Silver City Historic District: Located nearby, it features well-preserved structures and several historical museums that recount the tale of mining in the area.
• Pinos Altos Ghost Town: Visitors can explore remnants of old mines and ghostly remnants of the town’s prosperity.
• Stagecoach Rides: Some local companies offer stagecoach rides to give tourists a feel for the historic travel methods.

Annual Events

• Pinos Altos Fiddlers’ Festival: Celebrating the musical heritage of the area, this event attracts visitors each year.
• Treasure Hunting Day: A community event where locals share stories and celebrate the legends of buried treasures.

Conclusion: The Enduring Mystique of Pinos Altos

The Pinos Altos area carded into the annals of history not only as a mining hub but as a legendary treasure hunting ground. The collaborative interplay of history, adventure, and the search for hidden riches continues to attract explorers to this day. Numerous buried relics and treasures are still spoken of in hushed tones, their whereabouts lost to time yet vibrant in imagination.

The tales of the Great Apache Treasure, the Lost Wells Fargo Gold, and the Silver Cache of Pinos Altos weave a profound narrative that speaks to human curiosity, resilience, and the thirst for adventure. As we look to the future, the allure of these buried gains lies waiting, very much entwined with the rich historical fabric of Pinos Altos, echoing the aspirations and misadventures of those who sought fortune on perilous trails long ago.