There were two forms of transportation into the Red River Valley of Northern New Mexico in the late 1800s.
The most common was on foot. The trails leading into the area were originally created by wildlife. Deer trails usually provided a simple and reasonable way down the mountain, although they were not always direct. While some of those paths were steep and could offer a challenge to humans, they provided necessary access to and from the valley.
There was also the equine option. While automobiles had been invented, they had not changed the American landscape before the turn of the century that saw the establishment of Red River City. Horses were still the preferred form of travel. Many prospectors and rainbow chasers entered the valley mounted on a sure-footed steed they trusted to deliver them safely down the mountain.
There were a few mules, too. Sure-footed, yes, but stubborn? Oh yes!
Eventually, horses were hooked to wagons and the descent of the Red River Pass became a stimulating adventure that sometimes proved harrowing.
Horses: the symbol of the American West have played a vital role in the history of the valley and the town of Red River. In the early days of Red River City, their role was that of hard working partners with humans, providing the muscle and strength to perform tasks too large or difficult for people. They were the main source of power that made the building of the Red River Pass Road in 1916 a reality, pulling down aspen trees, moving boulders and dragging logs, or hitched to plows and scrapers.
One colorful chapter of the road building was written by Ed Wheatcroft and his giant team of draft horses. A resident of the Sunshine Valley north of Questa and a Buffalo Bill look-alike rumored to be the maker and distributor of fine whiskey, Wheatcroft and his team performed amazing feats of four-legged dexterity and added greatly to the timely completion of the road.
As more visitors from Texas, Oklahoma and New Mexico discovered the joys of summer in the valley, horses were pressed into service as the source of entertainment. Horseback rides to the high country meadows and forests became popular, with exciting rides to Goose Lake and Middle Folk Lake. Wheeler Peak and Latir trips became daring adventures guided by the Mutz family and the Gallagher family. Today, Dirk Neal at Red River Stables upholds the horseback riding tradition.
Rodeos gave horses another role into the 21st century and no modern parade down Main Street would be complete without at least one horse!