LAS CRUCES AND LA MESILLA, NM 2/12/11

 We headed across the desert to Las Cruces, named after all the crosses of the buried found there after the war to take this land from the Mexicans.  As we topped the hill headed into the valley of Las Cruces, we saw a huge roadrunner.  Sop we pulled over and checked it out.  it is so amazing to travel these raods and see the oddities of man and nature.  This was a huge sculpture of garbage overlooking the valley.

 Of course, being forewarned, we took a picture and then walked over next to the structure to examine its construction.

 Found no snakes, but as usual, nature of the desert has other things to be on the look out for.

 We drove into Las Cruces, did some banking and eating and then drove to a little pioneer village with lots of history, La Mesilla.

The small community was centered around a very historical town square.  The buildings were all originals.  The desert materials used to construct these buildings is fascinating to learn about.

 The history is fascinating!

 I always thought California and Oregon had the corner on interesting history.  But as we travel this wonderful country, we find every place has its own fascinating story.

 Inside structure observations.

 The post office.

 Billy the Kid was tried and convicted here and then sent to Lincoln County Jail for his hanging.  He escaped form Lincoln County, killing two deputies and later was shot by Pat Garrett.

 We went in the court house that was now a tourist store and found there was good reason not to steal horses in this community!

While we walked across the street of this sleepy little square, Wayne was fascinated by this manhole cover.  He stopped right in the middle of the street to take this picture, only to hear the rumblings of some out of towners approaching him.

 This is what he saw when he looked up.  Taking his life into his own hands he bravely snapped this shot and barely jumped to the side in time.

 None of the 20+ bikers slowed down.  Wayne, being the friendly guy he is, waved and smiled as he was taught by Stan The Trolley Man years ago.  Nobody waved back!!