Kelly
Lead and Zinc Capital
State: New Mexico
County: Socorro County
Founded: 1866
Abandoned: 1945
Peak Population: 3,000
Kelly was New Mexico's most productive lead-zinc mining district. At its peak, 3,000 people worked the mines. The headframe of the Kelly Mine still stands, along with ruins of stores and homes scattered across the hillside.
Rich Deposits
The Graphic-Waldo and Kelly mines produced millions in lead, zinc, and silver.
Standing Headframe
The Kelly Mine headframe is one of New Mexico's most photographed ghost town structures.
Timeline
- 1866 - Founded Mining began
- 1880s - Peak 3,000 residents
- 1945 - Closed Final operations ended
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Spring or fall
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2 hours
Quick Facts
- Kelly Mine headframe still standing
- New Mexico's richest lead-zinc mine
- Extensive ruins on hillside
Location
Address: Kelly, New Mexico
Coordinates: 34.0508, -107.185