A Guide to Treasure in New Mexico
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Those who search for lost mines in New Mexico should be warned of the hazards of success. Some ores in the state oxidize rapidly and in so doing burn the oxygen from the old mines. Centuries of time can play strange tricks in these underground shafts and tunnels, and a little carelessness may cause tragedy. Treasure seekers should stamp the following four rules indelibly on their minds:
- Do not enter any old mine unless you are properly equipped and know how to detect and avoid dangerous gases.
- Never enter old mines alone.
- Take extreme caution to see that overhanging ledges are safe to pass under.
- Be sure that all footing is solid.
Now, go ahead with your search—and good luck! Bernalillo County—In 1840, San Jose was a little village about five miles south of Albuquerque. Today, Albuquerque completely surrounds the old village site and all that remains of it is the church. Near the church once stood the small hacienda of Felipe Chavez. Felipe conducted a trading business up and down the valley and was considered a wealthy man. He made frequent trips into Mexico and brought back treasured articles, among them a massive chest made of buffalo hide banded with wrought silver. In this chest Felipe kept his considerable accumulation of gold.
