588
Schaaf
POST GAN
NEW MEXICO
CHAVES COUNTY COURT HOUSE
Roswell, New Mexico
In 1869 two adobe buildings were constructed at this
stop on the Old Chisholm Trail to serve as general store,
post office, and hotel. On March 4, 1871, Van Smith
filed the first claim, 3 years later he was appointed post-
master, and the place was named Roswell for his father.
Capt. Joseph C. Lea came in 1877 and bought Smith's
holdings, and a year later his father-in-law, Major W.
W. Wildy bought out Wilburn and two other settlers, and
presented this property to his daughter, Sally Wildy Lea.
Color Photo by F. J. Schaaf
Published by F. J. Schaaf, Alamogordo, New Mexico
21914
