Mesilla, New Mexico

Just across the Interstate 10 from Las Cruces, New Mexico, lies the small, quiet town of Mesilla. Once, in the days of the stagecoach, it was larger than both El Paso and Las Cruces, it was an overnight stop along the coach route.

As were many of the old western towns, it was not without a wild and bloody side. In fact, Billy the Kid roamed the streets and, in a building just off the town plaza, was sentenced to hang. It's said his ghost still haunts the Old Courthouse building.

When, in 1881, Mesilla opted against the railroad going through its town, Las Cruces said yes. Mesilla's loss was Las Cruces' gain, increasing its size and popularity. Today, Mesilla remains a town of some 2000 people where tourists go to spend a couple hours roaming the plaza and checking out the shops. If you like the old adobe and stucco architecture, be sure to take a camera along.

Forty miles west of El Paso and one mile south at New Mexico's exit 40 will get you there.

Above and Right: The Thunderbird de la Mesilla is the oldest brick building in New Mexico. Construction began in 1860 . Over the years, the building was used as a residence, a saloon, a general store and a town hall. Today it's a jewelry store, showcasing Native American jewelry.