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Madrid, pronounced MAD-rid, is a small village in New Mexico. It sits along the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway and is home to a small artists’ community. We stopped in Madrid while driving between Santa Fe and Albuquerque.
History
The area around Madrid had been known for lead mining since the 17th century, and coal mining started in 1835. The town of Madrid was built at the illegal trespass settlement of Keeseeville and celebrated its foundation in 1895, but it was never officially incorporated.
In the late 1940s, the demand for coal dropped significantly. The Albuquerque and Cerrillos Coal Company stopped operations in 1954 and most residents moved away. Since then, Madrid has been used as a setting in a handful of films. There are also several art galleries to peek into.
Connie’s Photo Park
Our first stop in Madrid was at Connie’s Photo Park, where people could have fun taking photos at several cardboard cutouts or dressing up in Western clothing. There’s no admission but donations are accepted.
Mine Shaft Tavern
Next, we walked by the Mine Shaft Tavern. It’s a fun place with a menu full of pub food and they feature live music every weekend. We didn’t have enough of an appetite to eat there, but I’d love to try it if I ever pass through the area again.
The tavern has an outdoor seating area next to an old locomotive, Engine #769. It was built in 1900 by Richmond Locomotive Works and was used by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway.
The Mine Shaft Tavern also runs both the Old Coal Town Museum and the Engine House Theatre. The museum was closed during our stop in Madrid. The theater offers all kinds of programming throughout the year including live theater, movies, and dance.
Java Junction
Finally, before leaving town, we stopped and had a decent coffee and some cake at Java Junction. They have a quirky outdoor seating area and also run a bed and breakfast.
