We drove a different way down the mountain, toward Silver City. We stopped at the top of a hill to enjoy the view when we noticed a dirt road leading away next to us. So, taking the opportunity to stretch our legs, we went for a short stroll.
On the way, we passed through the tiny, historic town of Pinos Altos. The town, founded in 1860, was originally named Birchville... after Robert H. "Three-Fingered" Birch (circa 1827 - circa 1866), an adventurer, criminal, soldier. lawman, postmaster and prospector. It was this last occupation that led him to these mountains where he discovered gold. Word spread quickly and soon there were over 700 men prospecting in the area. The town was later renamed Pinos Altos, which is Spanish meaning Tall Pines. These, however, were promptly cut down as the town grew to a population of close to 9,000 during the 1880's and 1890's. It slowly began being abandoned about 10 years later, but many of the original buildings remain.
Things were fairly quiet. We popped into the saloon and realized it was attached to the neighboring opera house. A waitress told us it was ok to quickly have a look.
A back room of the old saloon
The opera house, with stage and special balcony boxes
Great contrasting textures!
There were old photos and paintings displayed among the balcony boxes. At first they just looked random, but could this have been a story?...
... A man (getting dressed and leaving) has an enjoyable time with a 'woman of ill repute' (although she looks less than thrilled with the encounter) ...
... There is a gunfight between a well-dressed man in a suit and a half-dressed man (who clearly loses)...
... And then there's a funeral!
Continuing on our way
We arrived a bit late in Silver City. It was also cold, so we opted for a motel rather than seeking out a campground in the dark. It took us a while to find an affordable one. The first place wanted $89. The next one quoted us $64, but he'd be willing to give us a deal of $49... plus tax. We then tried the Drifter Motel. The rates were good, but unfortunately it was only a long-term place. But Mike, the guy behind the counter, was extremely kind. He told us that if we got on-line, he would show us a great deal for the Copper Manor across the street... AND he let us use the motel internet to do so! A few minutes later, we were booked into a room with a king-sized bed for $36.
