Cimarron because of its location on the Mountain Branch of the Santa Fe Trail, was the center of a large mining and ranching empire in the middle to the late 19th century. This town's past of gun play and violence has given way to the peaceful town of today. A walk through Old Town Cimarron will provide a glimpse of historic sites such as old jail, stage office and the St. James Hotel. The hotel is known for its ghosts. Brass plaques mounted on stone pillars present information about each historic site and local history. The surrounding area has many places which provide an opportunity for bird watching. fly fishing and riding a horse. The Shortgrass Music Festival is a week long event which takes place in late September at different sites in Cimarron, Colfax and Raton.

The Honorable Ralph L. Coulter