Welcome to Lincoln County

Once one of the wildest of all western towns, Lincoln is considered by many historians to be the most authentic old west town remaining in the United States. The single road through town was once described as "the most dangerous street in America". Among the many Lincoln landmarks is the Murphy / Dolan store- which became the Lincoln courthouse and jail- which became famous when Billy the Kid escaped in 1881, killing two deputies in the process. Legend has it - one of the bullet holes from Billy's gun still decorates the courthouse wall.
 

Attractions

print icon  Print Lincoln County Attractions

This National Historic Landmark was the center of the bloody Lincoln County War. This little hamlet was launched into the history books by a host of famous characters including Billy the Kid, Kit Carson, Pat Garrett, John Chisum and Lew Wallace. Today, as you take a relaxing stroll in their footsteps, you can visit six museums operated by the Lincoln State Monument and see numerous other historic buildings much as they looked in 1880. Extensive exhibits document the history of the region, focusing on the Lincoln County War (depicted in the movie "Young Guns", among many others). There are restaurants and gift shops to enjoy as well.

Old Lincoln Days (August)
Street vendors, food, parade and mountain man camp. 'Last Escape of Billy the Kid' pageant performances. Call for dates.

Arts in the Orchard (September)
Arts and crafts festival located next to the Dr. Woods house in Lincoln. Call for dates.

Christmas in Old Lincoln (December)
Christmas celebration with 1880's period costume contest. Visit with Santa, tour historic Lincoln, door prizes, fun for kids, carolers, merchants provide treats and entertainment. Great food and more! Call for dates.

Traditional lighting of the luminarias
Christmas Eve lighting of the luminarias along highway 380 at dusk and a Christmas eve church service at the Old San Juan Mission.
Be Sure to Visit All These Great Locations
 Fort Sumner ● Clovis ● Portales ● Carrizozo/White Oaks ● Roswell ● Capitan
 Lincoln County ● Ruidoso ● Mescalero ● Cloudcroft ● Alamogordo
 Artesia ● Hobbs ● Carlsbad

     Web Design by RuidosoWeb, Corp.