To the far west of Texas and the Southern end of New Mexico lies the breath-
taking Mesilla Valley. It was formed by repeated heavy spring floods of the Rio Grande river. Mesilla Valley follows the Rio Grande for three miles along the Bosque, and includes an estimated 400 acres of land.
The Mesilla Valley extends from about Hatch, New Mexico to the west side of El Paso, Texas. The valley is quite fertile, and is characterized by its few remaining bosques, as well as its native cottonwood trees, and increasingly, by invasive tamarisk, which was introduced by Anglo settlers in the late 1800s, and is known locally as salt cedar which comprises about 50-60 species of deciduous or evergreen shrubs or small trees growing.
Due to the fertile nature of the valley, agriculture is a very important activity in this area. Cotton, chile, and corn are other important cash crops grown in the Mesilla Valley. The Mesilla Valley is also known for its wine-producing capabilities, which originated with the Spanish exploration into New Mexico.
Along with being the center of commerce and culture in Southern NM, Las Cruces is surrounded by beautiful vistas and abundant wildlife. Close by are the Organ Mountains, White Sands & the Gila Wilderness. As an added bonus, the region is blessed with sunshine 350 days per year!
The nearby historic Town of Mesilla, New Mexico is home to many galleries & boutiques filled with Southwestern treasures. Perhaps the most significant event to occur on the Plaza included the consummation of the Gadsden Purchase by the raising of the United States flag in the Plaza by troops from Ft. Fillmore in 1853. Another less colorful event that occurred was a political riot in 1871 where Republicans and Democrats met after simultaneous political rallies on the west side of the Plaza. Fighting occurred resulting in several deaths and injuries. On September 10, 1957, the Mesilla Plaza was declared a state monument of New Mexico because of its historical significance in both the history of the state and the history of the United States.
The Plaza is also home to many cultural and historical activities, the most prominent of which are the Cinco de Mayo and 16th de Septiembre Fiesta Celebrations. Also, gaining in popularity is the Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration that occurs the first part of November. On Christmas Eve, the Plaza becomes magically alive with thousands of luminarios outlining streets, sidewalks and buildings celebrating the holiday season. You can also shop at the local Farmers and Crafts market on the Plaza every Thursday and Sunday throughout the year. Many quaint gift shops, galleries, and world-renowned dining and drinking establishments occupy the Plaza and its surrounding historical buildings. It is quite a pleasure to spend an afternoon walking the plaza.
Come see for yourself why this area is so rich in history and beauty. When you want to stay permanently, allow me to help you with every step of your move.