A small collection of material, consisting of an original ink on linen map, two documents, and a small ore sample, associated with the Aztor Mine in the historic Los Cerrillos Mining District. Located about 20 miles southwest of Santa Fe, New Mexico, Los Cerrillos was first prospected in 1581, having previously been a site for turquoise extraction by the Pueblo Indians. Spanish miners extracted gold, silver, and lead, using Tano Indians as slave labor in some instances. Activity declined in the early 18th century and most of the mines lay dormant until 1879 when two prospectors from Leadville, Colorado rediscovered the district, ushering in a boom during the 1880s. Thereafter, mining shifted from silver-lead to lead-zinc ore. The last operation of a Los Cerrillos mine ceased in 1975.

Dated 1898, the map measures approximately 14” x 24” and shows not only the Aztor and Vera M claims but also the workings and important structures. The two documents are an 1891 claim certificate and a 1903 proof of labor. The former is recorded on the verso by Pedro Delgado, who would later serve a term (1896-97) as Mayor of Santa Fe. Both identify the Bennett Brothers as the owners, with Edward F. Bennett acting as the agent. The ore specimen is about 1 inch long, and consists of copper bearing iron sulfides.

Some creasing from prior folds to the map. The claim certificate is cleanly separated along two folds (no loss), with some general edgewear. A small but significant addition to the story of this historic mining district. Item #73805

Price: $500.00