Rayado, New Mexico – On the Santa Fe Trail
Nestled approximately ten miles south of Cimarron, New Mexico, along the winding path of Highway 21, lies the historic settlement of Rayado. Founded in 1848 by the enterprising Lucien B. Maxwell in the aftermath of the Mexican-American War, Rayado holds the distinction of being the first established settlement in Colfax County, New Mexico. The name "Rayado," derived from the Spanish word meaning "streaked," is thought to be inspired by the visually striking cliffs that grace the landscape near the settlement. These cliffs, with their layers of rock and varied hues, likely presented a memorable landmark for travelers and settlers alike.
The story of Rayado, New Mexico, is inextricably linked to the life and ambitions of Lucien Maxwell. A man of diverse talents, Maxwell’s influence extended far beyond the boundaries of this small settlement. His marriage to Luz Beaubien in 1842 marked a pivotal moment, connecting him to one of the wealthiest and most influential families in the region. Luz was the daughter of Carlos Beaubien, one of the two original holders of the colossal Beaubien-Miranda Land Grant.
The Beaubien-Miranda Land Grant was an immense tract of land, a vast expanse stretching across northern New Mexico and into southern Colorado. Its sheer size was staggering, encompassing millions of acres of fertile land, rich mineral deposits, and abundant natural resources. Over time, Lucien Maxwell skillfully navigated the complex legal and financial landscape, eventually acquiring Miranda’s share of the grant and inheriting the other half through his marriage. This shrewd acquisition transformed Maxwell into the owner of the largest single tract of land ever held by one individual in the history of the United States, a domain exceeding 1.7 million acres.
Beyond his vast landholdings, Maxwell was a man of many pursuits. He was a successful trader, engaging in commerce with both settlers and Native American tribes. His knowledge of the region and his ability to foster relationships made him a valuable intermediary. He also served as an Indian Agent, a role that required him to mediate between the U.S. government and various Native American tribes, navigating the delicate balance of diplomacy and policy. In addition to these roles, Maxwell was a prominent cattleman, raising livestock on his expansive ranch and contributing to the growing agricultural economy of the region.
Having established Rayado, New Mexico, Maxwell sought to attract settlers and solidify his presence in the area. One of his closest friends was the renowned frontiersman Kit Carson. In 1849, Maxwell extended an invitation to Carson, urging him to relocate from nearby Taos to Rayado. Recognizing the potential of the area, Carson invested $2,000 in a joint ranching and farming venture with Maxwell. Together, they purchased livestock and seeds, and hired workers to construct buildings along the banks of Rayado Creek. This investment signified Carson’s belief in the future of the settlement.
Despite the promising prospects, Carson harbored reservations about relocating his family to Rayado permanently. The area was vulnerable to raids by various Plains Indian tribes, including the Apache and Comanche, posing a constant threat to the safety and security of settlers. Furthermore, Carson’s wife, Josefa, had recently given birth, adding to his concerns about the challenges of life on the frontier. While he did erect a small house in Rayado, New Mexico, Carson never fully committed to moving his family there, choosing to remain in Taos for the time being.
The location of Rayado played a significant role in its early development. Situated at the confluence of the Mountain Route and the Cimarron Cutoff of the Santa Fe Trail, the settlement became a natural stopping point for traders and travelers traversing the region. Both Carson and Maxwell frequently hosted Santa Fe Trail traders, providing them with lodging, supplies, and companionship. This constant flow of people and goods brought economic activity to Rayado and helped to establish it as a vital hub in the area.
However, despite its strategic location and the presence of prominent figures like Maxwell and Carson, Rayado struggled to attract a substantial number of permanent settlers. The constant threat of raids by Apache, Comanche, and other Plains tribes loomed large, deterring many potential residents from making Rayado their home. The isolation of the settlement, coupled with the dangers of frontier life, presented significant challenges to its growth and development.
In April 1850, Rayado experienced a direct attack by Jicarilla Apache Indians, who raided the settlement, stealing horses and severely wounding two Mexican herders. The attack underscored the very real dangers faced by the residents of Rayado and highlighted the need for greater protection. In response to the raid, Captain W.N. Grier of the 1st Dragoons, stationed in nearby Taos, dispatched Sergeant William Holbrook and a detachment of soldiers to safeguard the settlement. Accompanying Holbrook were Kit Carson and two other frontiersmen, William New and Robert Fisher, whose knowledge of the terrain and Indian tactics proved invaluable.
After diligently following the trail of the raiding party for 25 miles, the soldiers located the camp of nine unsuspecting Apache Indians. At daybreak on April 6th, Holbrook launched a surprise attack, leading his men in a swift and decisive charge. In the ensuing skirmish, five of the Apache were killed, two others were wounded, and the stolen livestock was successfully recovered. The successful defense of Rayado against the Apache raid boosted morale and demonstrated the commitment of the U.S. military to protecting the settlement.
Following the Apache raid, a federal garrison post was established at Rayado, providing a much-needed sense of security for the residents. The presence of soldiers helped to deter further attacks and allowed the settlement to gradually develop and expand. The garrison remained in place until Fort Union was established the following year, at which point the military presence shifted to the larger and more strategically important fort.
In 1857, a new settlement was founded a few miles to the north, named Cimarron. Lucien Maxwell, recognizing the potential of Cimarron’s location and resources, soon decided to move his headquarters there. The move marked a significant shift in the regional landscape, as Cimarron gradually eclipsed Rayado in importance and became the dominant center of commerce and activity.
Despite Maxwell’s relocation, Rayado continued to be inhabited. In 1859, Jesus Gil Abreu, who had also married a Beaubien daughter, built a ranch house along the banks of Rayado Creek. Abreu remained in Rayado until his death in 1900, contributing to the settlement’s enduring legacy.
Rayado, New Mexico, also gained a post office in 1873, further solidifying its status as a recognized community. The post office served the residents of Rayado and the surrounding area, facilitating communication and connecting them to the wider world. The post office remained in operation until 1919, reflecting the changing demographics and economic conditions of the region.
Today, Rayado is part of the Philmont Scout Ranch, a vast wilderness area owned and operated by the Boy Scouts of America. The site preserves several historic buildings, including the original Maxwell home, a reconstruction of Kit Carson’s house, the Chapel of the Holy Child, and La Posta, a Santa Fe Trail stage stop dating back to the 1850s. Nearby is the old Abreu family cemetery, a poignant reminder of the generations who lived and died in this remote corner of New Mexico.
The Kit Carson Museum at Rayado is a seasonal museum. The museum is free of charge; however, donations are welcome and greatly appreciated. Visitors can explore these preserved structures and learn about the rich history of Rayado and the Santa Fe Trail.
The story of Rayado, New Mexico, is a testament to the resilience, ambition, and enduring spirit of the pioneers who ventured into the American West. Though its prominence has faded over time, Rayado remains a significant historical site, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the region and contributed to the unfolding drama of the Santa Fe Trail.