When you think of "the most dangerous street in America," your mind probably jumps to the gritty alleys of New York City, the bustling streets of Chicago, or the sprawling neighborhoods of Los Angeles. But what if I told you this notorious title belongs to a quiet, unassuming town in Lincoln, New Mexico?
Welcome to Lincoln, a place where history doesn't just whisper; it shouts from every corner. This small town is more than a step back in time—it's a living, breathing relic of the Old West. Recently, I found myself wandering down a street that President Rutherford B. Hayes once dubbed "the most dangerous street in America." With its violent past, notorious outlaws, and rugged justice, Lincoln is anything but your average small town.
It’s a time capsule from the 1800s, preserved almost perfectly from its heyday as the epicenter of the Lincoln County War. This wasn’t just another cowboy feud; it was a bloody conflict that dragged in everyone from ranchers to lawmen, from merchants to outlaws. Walking down Lincoln’s main street, which was once a dusty trail but is now a paved highway, you can almost feel the tension that must have filled the air—a tension that erupted into violence all too often.
The Gallows and the Double Hanging of William Wilson
As I continued my walk, I came across the site of the old gallows—a stark reminder of the rough justice that once reigned in Lincoln. One of the most chilling stories tied to these gallows is that of William Wilson, an outlaw who faced execution here.
After Wilson was hanged and his body placed in a coffin, onlookers were shocked to discover sometime later that he was still alive.
In a macabre twist, the judge ordered Wilson to be hanged again. This time, to ensure the job was done, they left him hanging from the gallows for a full 20 minutes. This grim event became known as the "double hanging" in Lincoln, and it’s a haunting chapter in the town's violent history.
Brothels, Saloons, and the Wild West
Lincoln wasn’t just about shootouts and lawmen—it was also a town of escape and vice. The streets were lined with brothels and saloons where whiskey flowed, and the rules were few. These were the places where deals were made, secrets were whispered, and lives were often lost over a game of cards or a harsh word.
As you pass by the sites of these former establishments, it’s easy to imagine the clinking of glasses, the laughter, and the murmurs of people trying to forget the dangers lurking just outside. The saloons and brothels were as much a part of Lincoln’s story as the gunfights, adding layers of complexity to its violent history.
Reflecting on Lincoln’s Dangerous Past
Leaving Lincoln’s main street behind, I couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d just walked through a chapter of American history that is often romanticized but was, in reality, harsh and unforgiving. Lincoln is a place where the past feels almost tangible, where every building and landmark has a story steeped in blood and grit.
From the courthouse where Billy the Kid made his legendary escape, to the gallows that witnessed the infamous double hanging, to the saloons and brothels that provided brief refuge from the perils outside, Lincoln clings to its past with a fierce grip. It’s a reminder of a time when life was lived on the edge, and survival was never certain.
So, if you ever find yourself wandering through New Mexico, make a detour to Lincoln. Walk down the most dangerous street in America and discover for yourself why this little town is so unforgettable. It’s more than just a piece of history—it’s a vivid glimpse into the wild, unpredictable heart of the Old West.
For more information, check out https://nmhistoricsites.org/lincoln.
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