Lincoln historical aerial view of the town.

History of Lincoln State Monument

Lincoln is a community frozen in time. Lincoln State Monument, a National Historical Landmark, preserves numerous historical buildings much as they were during one of the most violent periods of New Mexico history.

President Rutherford B. Hayes called Lincoln’s main street “the most dangerous street in America.” In this quiet one-street community visitors can walk in the footsteps of Sheriff Pat Garrett, Billy the Kid, and other infamous characters involved in the Lincoln County War, 1878-1881.

• The Old Lincoln County Courthouse traces the events as a store, residence, Masonic Lodge and eventually courthouse and jail.
• The Tunstall Store's original 19th century merchandise is on display.
• The Torreon, a defensive tower, continues to stand watch in the middle of town.
• The Montano Store contains exhibits on adobe construction and the Hispanic culture that was prevalent during the Lincoln County War.
• The San Juan Mission Church is open to the public and is still used for services today.
• The Anderson-Freeman Visitors Center, the only non-historical building open to the public, has exhibits in a timeline starting with American Indian pre-history and ending with the Lincoln County War.

Special events are scheduled throughout the year.