For years before and after this time, the…

chunk 872 · paragraph 1025

nt of a large and remunera- tive settlement. No sooner was the scheme originated, than the doughty soldier of fortune took steps to carry it into successful operation. Whether his faith in the country was real or imaginary, he made it appear as wonderfully rich in minerals. At this time, the Mimbres river Apaches, under the leadership of the famous Mangas Colorado, held undisputed sway over the entire country now embraced in Grant county, as well as what is now Dona Ana, and a portion of Sierra. Nothing daunted at the obstacles which beset his path, Mowry pro- ceeded to lay out the future city which was to become famous in connection with his name. He built solid stone and adobe houses, many of which still exist in a remarkable state of preser- vation, notwithstanding the ravages of a third of a century. For years before and after this time, the crossing of the Mimbres was a station on the southern overland route from southwest Mis- souri to El Paso, and thence by way of Mesilla and the Mimbres on to the Pacific coast, touch- ing at Tucson and the military posts in Arizona and southern California.