| Recognizing the need to preserve and promote the diverse culture and history of our area, the Colfax County Society of Art, History and Archaeology was founded in 1938 as a non-profit corporation. First exhibiting within the walls of the Carnegie Library, it later moved to a two-story rock house at the end of North First Street, then to the stone building on Savage Avenue, and eventually occupying the Shuler House. |
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| After the city of Raton's decision to sell the Shuler property, the collections were stored in the basement of the Arthur Johnson Memorial Library. In 1975, the Society organized and facilitated a gift of the Coors Building for the city as a museum, from
R.O. Anderson, CEO of Tinnie Mercantile Company. |
The Raton Museum is operated by the Colfax County Society of Art, History and Archaeology and located at 216 South First Street in Raton's Historic District in a building constructed in 1906 by the Coors Brewing Company. The Museum's primary goal is to preserve local history and culture by collecting, preserving, and presenting documents, photographs, tools, clothing, artwork, and other artifacts that played a role in the ongoing story of Raton and Colfax County. The collection consists of Indian artifacts, a history of the Wootton Toll Road and the Clifton House, along with other items found along the Santa Fe Trail. Exhibits feature early military uniforms and artifacts, as well as a history of the roles played by citizens during their service in the armed forces. In addition, photographs and artifacts record life of Colfax County's early farming and ranching communities. The Raton Museum has an extensive railroad exhibit and is a must for any railroad buff. Their collection of artifacts and photographs from the many area coal camps represent a significant part of Raton's history and contribute to the cultural diversity of its community. The museum's extensive photograph collection continues to grow through generous contributions of patrons and serves as a valuable resource for research, education, and presentation of programs on regional history and personalities.
Kathy McQueary, Roger Sanchez and Bobbie McKim
Admission is free although donations are encouraged and memberships are available for $6 annually. Summer hours are 9am to 5pm Tuesday through Saturday; winter hours are 10am to 4pm Wednesday through Saturday. Special group tours can be arranged by calling 505/ 445-8979.
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Raton Museum
216 S. First Street, Raton, NM 87740
505/ 445-8979 |
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