Title: The Turquoise Trail
Description: "The Turquoise Trail is a quirky, alternative road stretching between Santa Fe and Albuquerque. Before horses trod the route, it linked three Native American pueblos. The earliest mining activity in North America took place along the trail; local Native Americans mined a huge vein of turquoise that was visible on the surface. In the age of horses and wagons, the road ran through dusty Wild West towns, mining districts, and mountains, which were once roamed by thousands of prospectors with dreams of finding the mother lode. When mining became unprofitable, the inhabitants packed whatever they could into their cars and pulled out, seeking employment elsewhere. But a time came when people realized there was still potential in these old ghost towns. The buildings that once housed miners and the businesses that supported them are now occupied by art galleries, boutiques, and modern pioneers. The route still has a flavor of the Wild West, but instead of cowboys and miners, it now attracts motorcycle enthusiasts, movie crews, and day-trippers who appreciate authenticity and local color"--Back cover.
Subjects: Pictorial works, Local History, Trails, History, Scenic byways, Historic buildings, Historic sites, Social life and customs, New mexico, history, New mexico, description and travel
Places: Santa Fe Region (N.M.), Albuquerque Region (N.M.), New Mexico, Santa Fe Region, Los Cerrillos (N.M.), Madrid (N.M.), Golden (N.M.)