Deming / Columbus
With a population of nearly 15,000, Deming is still considered a small town. But it offers many amenities one might find in a larger town. It is also a hub for another 12,000 residents who live outside of Deming, in rural Luna County.
Retirement/Relocation
Deming has been promoted as a retirement destination since the 1950s, and many active seniors have moved to this “Kingdom of the Sun”. In the last ten years this rate has accelerated, causing a small housing “boom” in the area.
More younger families have begun moving to Deming as well. They are either professionals who serve the needs of the older population, or they find that the small-town atmosphere is the kind of place they want for their growing children.
Consequently, the town now has ten public schools, one of which is the high school. It also offers post-graduate studies through three college and university branches located in the community. There is a newly renovated library as well.
Railroad Town
Originally, Deming was a frontier town and descendants of the old timers still live in the area, making for an interesting mix in populace. There are still cattle and horse ranchers in outlying areas, and large agricultural spreads produce sweet onions, pecans, chile, wine grapes and other market garden goods.
Hispanic Influence
There is a large Hispanic population in Deming, many of whom can trace their roots to the early Spanish who came from Mexico to explore “Nuevo Mexico”. The Hispanic culture has a strong influence on Deming’s community life.
One of the most obvious Hispanic influences is the food most locals enjoy. There seems to be a Mexican restaurant on almost every corner. And they all offer good, home-style cooking. There are a variety of other restaurants available too, from fast food, to Italian and Chinese, to steak houses and snack bars.
There is a wide variety of commerce in town including retail and financial services, homeowner services, and several developers who are building beautiful new homes in their developments. Specialty shops, art galleries and antique shops in Deming keep the avid shopper busy for several days. And don’t miss the two, world-class wineries that offer tastings.
Health & Recreation
Recreation can be had at the 18-hole golf course, or hiking the nearby desert or mountain trails. There is also an aquatic center that offers programs for young and old, and tennis courts as well.
If one overdoes the fitness thing, the local hospital has the facilities and doctors necessary to look after those, and more serious, medical needs. Several dental and eye care professionals have practices in Deming too.
There are more that 30 churches in Deming, so one can easily find the denomination of one’s choice. As is typical in most small towns, churches and service organizations in Deming are often the driving forces behind many community activities and events.
History -
Over 100 years ago Deming was primarily a railroad town. A silver spike marked the joining of the second transcontinental railroad here in 1881. The city received its name from Miss Mary Anne Deming, who became the wife of Charles Crocker, one of the early magnates of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Don Joseph Antonio de Vildosola followed the Mimbres River through this area in 1780 searching for a trade route between Sonora (Mexico) and Santa Fe. He reported frequent skirmishes with Apache warriors. The presence of Indians kept settlers away for another 100 years.
Today Deming is a thriving business and agricultural community, offering warm hospitality to all.
Tourist Attractions -
Deming's rich past is found in one of the finest museums in the Southwest. Deming's many strengths make it an excellent community in which to relocate or retire. It boasts an aquatic park, fine hospital, BMX track, winery, golf course, motorplex, and the world's largest chile plant. For years, Luna County has held the title as No. 1, or No. 2, producer of chile in the world.
State Parks -
Self-guided tours take you into western history, early cultures and ventures into Old Mexico.
Rockhound State Park, along with Spring Canyon, in the nearby Florida (Floor-EE-dah) Mountains offers camping, hiking and rockhounding opportunities.
Columbus, on the Mexico border is the site of the famous raid by Pancho Villa. Pancho Villa State Park and shopping opportunities in Palomas, Mexico, make this a rewarding visit.
Vistas, Flora and Fauna -
Photographers and outdoorsmen find abundant wildlife in the surrounding mountains and desert, with miles of open country to explore. Deming sits at the base of the Florida Mountains, and the southern mountains are known for occasional sightings of exotic ibex and mountain sheep. Hikers, as well, enjoy challenging expeditions in the high desert mountains.
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Deming-Luna County
Chamber of Commerce
P.O. Box 8
800 E. Pine
Deming, N.M. 88031
Phone: 1-800-848-4955
Web: www.demingchamber.com |
City of Deming
309 South Gold Avenue
P.O. Box 706
Deming, New Mexico 88031
Phone: 505/546-8848
Fax: 505/546-6442
Web: www.cityofdeming.org |
Photos and some text courtesy Deming Chamber of Commerce and New Mexico Parks Division
