Back to Las Cruces

In El Paso we had to buy two more batteries for the camper (we have 3 altogether). On Tuesday, November 17, we visited the Chamizal National Memorial in the middle of El Paso. This was built in the early 70’s to commemorate the treaty signed between Mexico and the US establishing the border. Formerly the Rio Grande was the border. However, since it kept moving after the original treaty was signed in the mid 1800’s (part of the Gadsden Purchase), there were many disputed areas. One was this area. The agreement involved putting the River in a concrete channel (no more moving for that river!) and dividing the disputed area between Mexico and the US. Of course, many of the people living there had to move to be on the right side of the border (reminds me of what we did to the Native Americans). But it did solve the problem. Chamizal was part of this area so the US established the Memorial as a place of peace and celebration of the two cultures. Pretty wonderful in my mind!

Suzanne at Chamizal National Memorial

Minor Basilica of San Alban

From there we headed back to Las Cruces NM. We visited Mesilla, which is just before Las Cruces. This is another interesting village worth a visit. It is one of the oldest communities in New Mexico. It was originally part of Mexico and was an important stop on the trade routes. It was never very wealthy so most of the homes are small, thick walled adobe construction. The main square has a bandstand and is surrounded by very old one story buildings. Billy the Kid used to rendezvous here and the court house where he was sentenced to hang is still here (I believe he escaped this one). The Minor Basilica of San Alban is at one end of the square. It is a lovely, quiet place to rest. We also spent time in the shops which featured Indian jewelry, local pecans, Southwest pottery and clothing.