Pinos Altos, located 7 miles north of Silver City at an elevation of 7040 feet, began in 1860 when three frustrated 49ers stopped to take a drink in Bear Creek and discovered gold. In addition to offering beautiful mountain views of the Gila National Forest, the Main Street of this charming old gold mining town, where the fair will be taking place, looks like an old western movie set.

Many of the old buildings date back to the 1800's, and have been restored and decorated with original memorabilia and artifacts, mostly 19th Century Americana.

The sponsoring businesses will all be participating. The Buckhorn Saloon & Restaurant and the Pinos Altos Ice Cream Parlor will be offering hearty and delicious foods and beverages.

The Pinos Altos Opera House, which houses a great display of historic memorabilia, will be open to the public during the day. In the evening, artists and visitors alike can catch the current production of the Pinos Altos Melodrama Theatre. For theatre information and reservations email the Melodrama Theatre.

While in Pinos Altos, visitors can tour the Pinos Altos Historical Museum and other historic sites. Don't miss seeing Fort Cobre, a 3/4 scale replica of the Santa Rita Del Cobre Fort (circa 1804), which was originally located in Grant County where the copper mine now exists.

Also participating will be the Grant County Art Guild. The Guild is housed in the old Hearst Church. This church is over 100 years old and was associated for many years with Phebe Hearst, the mother of Randolph Hearst, of newspaper fame. The church is located several blocks off Main Street. Besides, the art work of the Guild, an historic glass-sided funeral carriage that carried the body of Pat Garrent is on display.

Excellent local accommodations are provided by Bear Creek Motel and Cabins, Pinos Altos Cabins and the Continental Divide RV Park.

For a copy of the Art Fair Prospectus or for more information about the Pinos Altos Art Fair, call 505-388-5202 or send an Email