Introduction

The Pecos River flows gently through the hills, mesas and rolling grassland of Guadalupe County. Creating a fertile oasis where ever it flows, the Pecos crosses the county from northwest to southeast before flowing into Sumner Lake just south of the Guadalupe-DeBaca county line. The sweet wealth of water in Guadalupe County is a miracle, a blessing to be enjoyed by all who live and travel in this rugged land. And where water is, the people come. Throughout the history of Guadalupe County, from the trails followed by Spanish settlers and Texas cattlemen to the railroads and Route 66, the people followed the path of water.

Guadalupe County was created by the territorial legislature in 1891. The name honors Our Lady of Guadalupe, the vision of the Virgin Mary, who appeared to Juan Diego near Mexico City in 1531.

more »