Cline’s Corners to the Old Longhorn Ranch, New Mexico on Route 66
Embarking on a westward journey along the iconic Route 66 from Santa Rosa, New Mexico, the landscape unfolds with a captivating blend of natural wonders and historical landmarks. The allure of the open road beckons travelers to discover the stories etched into the very fabric of this legendary highway. As you drive, cast your gaze southwest, and you’ll be greeted by the imposing sight of Cerro Pedernal Peak.
Cerro Pedernal, a majestic peak soaring to a height of 7,576 feet, dominates the arid plains. Its name, meaning "Flint Peak," hints at its rich geological history. This geological formation served as a vital resource for ancient peoples. The mountain was the site of numerous prehistoric flint mines and quarries, where skilled artisans crafted tools and weapons from the readily available material. This valuable resource became a commodity for trade with other Indigenous groups, fostering economic and cultural exchange across the region. The area surrounding Cerro Pedernal is steeped in history, with countless artifacts, including tools and arrowheads, unearthed over time. The lore of buried treasure and lost artifacts has also drawn hopeful fortune hunters to the summit, leaving behind a landscape scarred by excavations. At the base of the peak, a natural spring provided a precious water source, becoming a point of contention among cattlemen during the early days of settlement, further shaping the history of the area.
Continuing the journey, one encounters Cline’s Corners, a landmark that has stood as a testament to the enduring spirit of Route 66 since 1934. Cline’s Corners has been a beacon for travelers, offering essential services like gasoline and a wide array of souvenirs for over seven decades. However, the location of Cline’s Corners has not always been consistent. Initially, Roy Cline, the founder, established the business in Lucy, New Mexico. However, the location proved to be less than ideal.
Driven by the desire for greater visibility and accessibility, Roy Cline relocated the station to Route 66, positioning it strategically at the junction of Highway 6 and Highway 2. Yet, fate intervened in 1937 when Route 66 was realigned, bypassing his station to the north. Undeterred, Roy Cline once again moved his building, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to serving travelers along the Mother Road. At its final and most successful location along the ever-popular Route 66, Cline’s Corners thrived, attracting a steady stream of customers. Cline even managed to convince Rand McNally to include Clines Corners on their maps, solidifying its place as a must-stop destination. In the early days, the tales of Cline selling gasoline for a mere ten cents a gallon and water for a dollar a gallon were often recounted, highlighting the scarcity of water in the region.
In 1939, Roy Cline made the decision to sell Cline’s Corners to S. Lynn "Smitty" Smith and his wife, Helen. The Smiths embraced the legacy of Cline’s Corners and embarked on a period of expansion, adding the distinctive neon sign that became synonymous with the establishment. Under their stewardship, the name "Cline’s Corners" continued to grace maps, guiding travelers to its welcoming doors.
Meanwhile, Roy Cline, not one to remain idle, ventured into a new endeavor, establishing another business approximately 16 miles east of Cline’s Corners. In 1945, the Flying C Ranch opened its doors, offering a comprehensive range of services to Route 66 travelers, including a gas station, garage, and cafe.
The growth of Cline’s Corners continued unabated, necessitating an expansion of its workforce. To accommodate its growing team, the business constructed homes for its employees, which are still in use today, a testament to the enduring legacy of the establishment. In 1961, Smitty’s passing led to another change in ownership. A post office was added in 1964. Cline continued to operate the Flying C Ranch until 1963, when it was acquired by Bowlin’s, becoming Bowlin’s Flying C Ranch. Claude M. Bowlin, the founder of Bowlin’s, had a long history of trading with American Indians, dating back to 1912. Over time, the Bowlin family expanded its operations, establishing a network of 12 travel centers, further solidifying its presence along the nation’s highways.
Today, Cline’s Corners stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Route 66, employing numerous individuals who provide a vital rest stop for weary travelers. The establishment occupies the same location it has for decades. Cline’s Corners has expanded significantly, now encompassing over 30,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, featuring both a full-service restaurant and a fast-food venue. A significant portion of the space is dedicated to New Mexico’s largest Gift Shop, offering a vast selection of southwestern, New Mexican, Route 66, Native American, and other souvenirs, ensuring that visitors can find a unique memento of their journey, whether it be a rattlesnake ashtray, a beaded Indian belt, or a rubber tomahawk. Conveniently located just outside the main building are two modern and nationally recognized brand Convenience Stores and Gas Stations, providing both gasoline and diesel products.
While Cline’s Corners has evolved over time, it no longer offers the personalized service of the past, where a friendly young man would fill your gas tank, wash your windows, and even fix a flat tire. Today, Cline’s Corners resembles many other large travel centers that dot the nation’s interstate highways.
Cline’s Corners is conveniently located at Exit 218A north of I-40.
Continuing beyond Cline’s Corners, at exit 208, on the north side of I-40, lies the remnants of an old settlement known as Wagonwheel. This settlement once served as a stop for covered wagons, undoubtedly holding countless stories within its weathered walls. However, today, only a few buildings and a towing company remain, serving as a reminder of a bygone era.
A few more miles down the road, just at exit 203, lie the ruins of the old Longhorn Ranch on the south side of I-40. The Longhorn Ranch was once a beloved old west stop along the Mother Road. Sadly, the owner razed the buildings long ago. All that remains of this once-popular tourist attraction is the faded and twisted sign and a pile of rubble. Nearby stands a newer building, now home to a topless club, bar, and restaurant. Rumor has it that the owner of the old Longhorn Ranch razed the remaining structures due to the presence of the club. The old Longhorn Ranch Motel appears to be undergoing renovation, possibly for use by the club.
To continue the journey into Moriarty, take the frontage road on the north side of I-40 at Exit 203. As you turn to the west, you’ll pass by the abandoned Zia RV Park and Campground. Though the sign is worn and faded, the campground has not been vacant for too many years, as it still appears on several campground websites.
The journey from Cline’s Corners to the Old Longhorn Ranch offers a glimpse into the rich history and evolving landscape of Route 66. From the ancient flint mines of Cerro Pedernal to the bustling travel center of Cline’s Corners and the poignant ruins of the Longhorn Ranch, each landmark tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring allure of the open road. The landscape of Route 66 is peppered with these gems of the past.