Colfax
Coal on the Pass
State: New Mexico
County: Colfax County
Founded: 1880
Abandoned: 1930s
Peak Population: 1,500
Colfax was a coal mining town on the slopes of Raton Pass, the historic gateway between the plains and the Southwest. The county is named for Schuyler Colfax, but the town died when diesel replaced coal.
Railroad Fuel
Coal from Colfax powered Santa Fe Railroad locomotives over the steep Raton Pass. The town prospered as long as steam held sway.
Diesel Kills Steam
When diesel locomotives replaced steam, Colfax's coal was no longer needed. The town faded.
Timeline
- 1880 - Founded Coal mining began
- 1900s - Peak Steam railroad era
- 1930s - Decline Diesel replaced steam
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Summer
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 1 hour
Quick Facts
- Colfax County named for VP Schuyler Colfax
- Located on historic Santa Fe Trail route
- Some foundations remain
Location
Address: Near Raton, New Mexico
Coordinates: 36.8619, -104.5783