Cuchillo, New Mexico

Cuchillo

Cuchillo, (Cu-Chee'-o), eight miles west of I-25 on NM52 (exit 89), was founded about 1850 to serve pioneers and ranchers. Cuchillo is Spanish for "knife", but in New Mexico the term was extended to describe a geological outcropping or sharp ridge. During the goldrush days in this area, Cuchillo was the headquarters for freighting and stagecoaches. Horses were changed and passengers allowed to rest. Often the stages had military escorts when the Apaches were on the warpath. The bar and general store, occupying a territorial style building has been in continuous operation since it opened in 1850. It still has the original scales, cash register, and display cases. Be sure to visit the Pecan Festival held the last Saturday in February. Best to reserve your pie in advance, as they sell out early.