Lincoln
Billy the Kid's Battleground
State: New Mexico
County: Lincoln County
Founded: 1869
Abandoned: 1950s (as county seat)
Peak Population: 800
Lincoln was the site of the Lincoln County War, the bloody feud that made Billy the Kid famous. The courthouse where he escaped through murder and the building where he hid still stand. A handful of residents preserve this Old West time capsule.
Lincoln County War
In 1878, rival factions fought for economic control of Lincoln County. Billy the Kid became famous as a gunfighter in this conflict.
Billy's Escape
In 1881, Billy the Kid killed two deputies and escaped from the Lincoln County Courthouse while awaiting execution. The courthouse still stands.
Timeline
- 1869 - Founded Settlement began
- 1878 - County War Bloody feud erupted
- 1881 - Billy's Escape Famous jailbreak
- 1913 - County Seat Moved Government left for Carrizozo
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Quick Facts
- Original courthouse where Billy escaped still stands
- Entire town is a state monument
- Some buildings still have bullet holes
Location
Address: Lincoln, New Mexico
Coordinates: 33.4914, -105.39