History of Cerrillos, New Mexico
It is not known exactly when Cerrillos had its beginning. What is known is its beginning is very ancient and probably dates as far back as 500 A.D. when Basket Maker Indians were in their prime. Gold and turquoise were the minerals extracted from the area. Given the time of 500 A.D. and other evidence, it is very probable prehistoric Indians were the miners. Nearly fourteen hundred years later, American prospectors rediscovered the ancient diggings at Cerrillos. Soon there were hundreds of prospectors roaming the area in search of gold and turquoise. In 1899, it was reported New Mexico's production of turquoise was valued at $1,600,000, most of it coming from Cerrillos. The town's demise began shortly after the turn of the century when production of gold and turquoise slackened.
Cerrillos Quarters, 1892
Courtesy Museum of New Mexico
Cerrillos, Clear Light Opera House
Courtesy Dolores Steele