Madrid, New Mexico
Madrid is a census-designated place (CDP) situated in Santa Fe County in the US State of New Mexico. Madrid was initially established as a coal mining community. With a museum dedicated to coal mining, more than 40 stores and galleries, dining options, and lodging, it has grown in popularity as a stop along the Turquoise Trail. Madrid, which is tucked away in a little valley in the Ortiz Mountains, has developed into a bustling mountain community. Currently home to over 200 people, the city invites art lovers and creative enthusiasts who are moved by the natural splendor of New Mexico.
Geography And Climate Of Madrid
Madrid covers a total area of 3.6 sq. km, all of which is occupied by land. The census-designated place forms a part of the Metropolitan Statistical Area of Santa Fe, New Mexico, and is situated along the Turquoise Trail between Albuquerque and Santa Fe.
The average temperature in Madrid is 52.83°F. On average, Madrid receives 15 inches of rainfall and 31 inches of snowfall yearly. Madrid's most pleasant months are September, August, and May, while December and January are the least pleasant. The average night temperature in Madrid is 20.8°F in January, which is the year's coldest month. With 2.6 inches of rain, August is the wettest month in Madrid, and January is the driest with just 0.6 inches.
Brief History Of Madrid
Madrid was formally established in 1895 after beginning as a coal mining community in the early 1800s. It was a corporate town where mining cabins and other infrastructure were brought in from out of state and was owned by a series of different mining firms. Early in the 20th century, as demand for coal declined, mining operations stopped, leaving Madrid to become a deserted ghost town. Since the 1920s, Madrid has been known for its yearly Christmas light shows. Madrid enjoyed the pleasure of having limitless electricity available for lights because the thriving coal firm owned the electric plant. Madrid thrived well into the 1930s, hosting the first lit stadium in the southwest, a sizable Independence Day parade, and a Christmas display that drew people from all over the state. Madrid never indeed became a ghost town, but by 1970 its population had fallen to 30. The town decreased with the decline in coal usage until the mines were shut in the 1950s. However, the region started to attract artistic types in the 1970s.
The Population And Economy Of Madrid
As per the latest US Census, Madrid has 255 residents. The population of Madrid has grown by 3.24% since the most recent census, which showed a population of 247 in 2010. Madrid is currently growing at a pace of 1.59% yearly. Whites make up Madrid's largest racial/ethnic group (100.0%). Madrid has a 69.16% poverty rate and a $38,802 average household income. The median value of a home is $191,700. In Madrid, the median age is 53.9 years, with males 65.2 years old and females 53.7 years old. Furthermore, 97.8% of Madrid's population are US citizens.
Attractions In And Around Madrid
Casa Grande Trading Post
The Casa Grande Trading Post is another fantastic stop if you're on your way from Santa Fe to Madrid. Families can buy animal feed in the gift store at the trading post to feed the goats, llamas, chickens, and other pets there. Additionally, the gift shop offers locally crafted turquoise jewelry sourced from the famed Cerrillos turquoise mines.
The Old Coal Town Museum
The Mineshaft Tavern houses the Madrid Old Coal Town Museum. It displays Madrid's earlier days as a coal mining community and later as a ghost town. One can see authentic coal mine artifacts, hear a video on Madrid's legendary Christmas light displays, and even take a tour of an ancient, defunct train. The museum is a fantastic place to take the whole family and is jam-packed with exciting history and artifacts from Madrid's previous incarnations.
Alchemy Studio
Contemporary fine crafts created by renowned local and international artists may be found at Alchemy Studio. Local jewelry artist and musician Lucy Barna, the store's owner, has curated a contemporary, airy atmosphere that features sculptural and practical ceramics, art jewelry, oil paintings, textiles, and more.
Whether Madrid itself is your final destination or you're merely passing through on your route to another city, it's a beautiful drive. Everyone can enjoy in this quaint locale, which is unlike any other.
