La Posta de Mesilla | Las Cruces

La Posta de Mesilla is a historic adobe building located in the village of Mesilla, New Mexico, adjacent to Las Cruces.

This structure served as a significant stop on the Butterfield Overland Mail route and is now a restaurant and cultural site.

Visual Characteristics

The building is constructed from adobe bricks, exhibiting a reddish-brown exterior. It features a single story with a flat roof, characteristic of traditional Southwestern architecture. Wooden vigas (beams) are visible under the eaves. The windows are small and recessed, with wooden shutters. The main entrance is a heavy wooden door.

Location & Access Logistics

La Posta de Mesilla is situated at 200 Main Street, Mesilla, NM 88046. It is approximately 4.8 km (3 miles) southwest of downtown Las Cruces. Access is via Main Street, which is a direct turn off Highway 185 (Telshor Boulevard). Ample on-site parking is available directly behind the restaurant. No public transport directly serves the immediate vicinity of La Posta; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The original structure was built in 1840 by Don Juan de Onate. It was acquired by the Butterfield Overland Mail Company in 1857 and served as a crucial station for mail and passengers traveling between St. Louis, Missouri, and San Francisco, California. The building has undergone several renovations and expansions over its history, with significant restoration efforts in the 20th century to preserve its historical integrity.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can dine at the La Posta de Mesilla restaurant, which occupies the historic building. The restaurant features multiple dining rooms, each with distinct decor. The site also houses a gift shop selling local crafts and souvenirs. Self-guided observation of the building's architecture is possible from the exterior and within public dining areas.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the restaurant. Shaded seating areas are provided on the restaurant's patios. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong in Mesilla. Food and beverage services are provided by the on-site restaurant.

Best Time to Visit

For photography of the exterior, late afternoon light provides optimal illumination on the adobe walls. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily. Weather is generally pleasant year-round, though summer months (June-August) can experience high temperatures.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the building was once owned by Albert Spiegelberg, a prominent merchant in the Mesilla Valley. It is rumored that Billy the Kid may have been briefly held in a room within the original structure after his capture.

Nearby Landmarks

• San Albino Catholic Church (0.1km North)
• Plaza de Mesilla (0.2km North)
• Gadsden Museum (0.3km North)
• New Mexico Farm and Ranch Heritage Museum (3.5km East)
• Old Mesilla Jail (0.2km North)