Grants, New Mexico – Uranium City USA
Grants, New Mexico, a town etched in the annals of the American Southwest, carries a history as layered and complex as the geological formations that surround it. From its ancient roots to its fleeting reign as the "Uranium Capital of the World," Grants is a testament to the ever-changing fortunes of the American West. The story of Grants begins long before the arrival of European settlers, with the legacy of the Ancient Puebloans echoing through the canyons and mesas.
The earliest inhabitants of the region were the Ancient Puebloans, who established a sophisticated civilization centered around Chaco Canyon, located north of present-day Grants, New Mexico. This remarkable culture flourished in the 12th century, leaving behind architectural marvels and intricate cultural traditions that continue to fascinate archaeologists and historians. While Chaco Canyon itself is some distance from Grants, its influence undoubtedly permeated the surrounding landscape, shaping the lives and traditions of the indigenous people who called this area home.
The landscape remained largely unchanged until the westward expansion of the railroads in the late 19th century. Don Jesus Blea, an entrepreneur who secured railroad contracts, established a homestead in 1872 on the south side of San Jose Creek, naming it Alamitos, meaning "Little Cottonwoods".
The arrival of the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad in 1881 irrevocably altered the trajectory of Alamitos. Three brothers, Angus, Lewis, and John Grant, were contracted to construct the railroad through the area, establishing base camps that served as nuclei for future development. As the railroad extended its reach, Alamitos transformed into a coaling station, attracting a surge of workers and businesses. A tent city sprung up west of the settlement, providing shelter for the thousands of railroad workers. In honor of the Grant brothers’ contribution, the settlement was renamed Grant’s Camp.
As Grant’s Camp prospered, entrepreneur Simon Bibo purchased 160 acres from Jesus Blea, constructing a store and hotel. He further stimulated the town’s growth by selling portions of his property to other businessmen, leading to the rapid establishment of various enterprises near the railroad tracks. During the late 1800s, abundant water resources attracted homesteaders to the surrounding area, fostering agriculture. Others engaged in cattle and sheep ranching or exploited the area’s plentiful logging opportunities.
In 1882, a post office was officially established under the name Grants, New Mexico, although locals continued to refer to it as Grant’s Camp. Later, with the construction of the Railroad Station, the name evolved to Grant’s Station. In 1936, the town’s official name was finally simplified to Grants.
While remaining a predominantly agricultural community, Grants benefited from the influx of travelers along Route 66. Motels and service stations were built alongside the railroad tracks, many of which continue to operate today, bearing witness to the town’s rich history.
The year 1950 marked a pivotal moment in Grants’ history. Paddy Martinez, a local rancher, discovered an unusual yellow rock in the Haystack Mountains, located approximately ten miles west of town. This rock was identified as uranium, sparking an economic boom as the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission initiated mining operations. The discovery ignited a uranium fever, with many residents investing in Geiger counters and venturing into the hills in search of the valuable ore.
The once-open land was now fiercely guarded, with "No Trespassing" signs warning of prosecution or even violence. Disputes over mineral rights became common, providing ample business for local attorneys.
The area’s uranium reserves were found to be among the largest globally, transforming Grants into a bustling hub with a population soaring from approximately 1,200 to nearly 12,000. The uranium industry generated approximately 6,000 jobs and accounted for roughly 63% of all uranium mined in the United States. This era solidified the town’s identity as "Uranium City USA". Mining operations continued at full capacity until the recession of 1982-83 forced the closure of the mines and mills, bringing an end to the uranium boom.
In the midst of this period of rapid growth, Cibola County was established on June 19, 1981, carved out from the western portion of Valencia County. Grants became the county seat, further solidifying its regional importance. Although the closure of the mines led to a population decline, the city of Grants, New Mexico had diversified its economy, enabling it to endure and adapt.
Today, Grants is a small town with a population of less than 9,000, striving to move forward from its boom-and-bust past. The town is becoming a popular tourist destination. Its lakes, Bluewater and Ramah, are favored for fishing and boating. Its proximity to Ancient Puebloan ruins and its location near national monuments and forests that offer outdoor recreation are also great attractions.
For Route 66 enthusiasts, Grants retains several iconic landmarks, including the Lariat Lodge, Grants Cafe (established in 1937), the Sands Motel, Lavaland Motel, the closed Lux Movie Theatre, and the Trail Drive-In Theatre. Old Route 66 in Grants is known as Santa Fe Avenue, a constant reminder of the town’s historic significance along the Mother Road.
Several worthwhile side trips are easily accessible from Grants. Acoma Pueblo, located just 12 miles southeast, offers a glimpse into the region’s rich Native American heritage. The Bandera Ice Caves, another 13 miles further down the road, provide a unique geological experience.
Continuing along Route 66 for 41 miles leads to the Continental Divide, en route to Gallup, New Mexico. The landscape along this stretch of the historic highway is breathtaking, offering glimpses into the vastness and beauty of the American Southwest.
The legacy of Grants, New Mexico extends beyond its uranium boom and Route 66 connections. It’s a town that embodies the spirit of the American West: resilience, adaptability, and a deep connection to the land. While the uranium mines may be closed, and the glory days of Route 66 may be in the past, Grants continues to write its story, embracing its history while looking toward the future. The town’s story serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of resource-based economies and the importance of diversification and sustainable development. The people of Grants have learned to adapt and innovate, forging a new identity for their town based on tourism, agriculture, and a strong sense of community.