Otero County, New Mexico History and Genealogy

Tularosa Couple Recalls Three-Months Wagon
Train Trip to New Mexico Home

It took Mr. and Mrs. Caleb Holden of Tularosa three months to travel 500 miles from the Nueces River to James Canyon when they came to New Mexico by wagon train. The couple, who are two of the oldest residents of the Tularosa region, recently celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary with a family reunion. Mr. Holden is 86. Mrs. Holden is 85. Both are active. "We’re looking forward to another 67 years together." Mr. Holden said. Mr. Holden recalled that the women drove the wagons when the settlers moved out of the Nueces River country and headed west 55 years ago. "The men scouted ahead and watched for Indians." He said. "We moved about eight or ten miles a day, depending on the water. The men drove 600 cattle with the train." Mr. And Mrs Holden retired from the ranching business in 1903 and moved to La Luz, N. M. They bought a home in Tularosa later. ["Alamogordo" Monday Nov 6, 1939, Transcribed by Elaine Watson]

Mr. and Mrs. Caleb Holden