3000. Old Spanish National Historic Trail
It is 1829, eight years after Mexico gained independence from Spain. New Mexican traders travel overland to establish new commercial relations with frontier settlements in California. They carry locally produced merchandise to exchange for mules and horses.
Items include serapes, blankets, ponchos, and socks; a variety of hides – gamuzas (chamois), buffalo robes, bear and beaver skins; as well as hats, shawls, and quilts.
By this time Santa Fe is witnessing increased economic activity brought on by successful American and Mexican trade. Large quantities of manufactured products arrive in New Mexico from the eastern United States along the Santa Fe Trail. Many goods are also traveling along El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro to and from the interior of Mexico.
Explore the trail corridor with this tour.
- Old Spanish Trail Overview
- Official Trail Brochure
- Early Explorations and Trail Precursors
- Historic Routes
- How to Use This Tour
- Tours and Sites
More tools to help you plan your visit:
Old Spanish National Historic Trail
Use the map feature at the bottom of your screen to see where you are in reference to trail sites and segments.