Tucumari, New Mexico

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Tucumcari is a “gold mine” for photographers as the small town of about 5000 population is filled with old motels from the 1930’s to 1950’s. Some are boarded up, some in disrepair and others currently operating. There are dozen of unique old motel signs still hanging from their post.The downtown area had a number of very interesting old buildings, especially the train station. The federal building which burned in 2007 is still standing and un-repaired. There are many murals on the outside walls of buildings throughout the town. Route 66 runs right through the middle of the town. On the western outskirts is a new community college that is a sharp contract from the 50 to 70 year old buildings that are in the same area. The long running TV series, Rawhide with Clint Eastwood was partially shot in Tucumcari. That show ran 1956-1966.There are just a few food places to eat in town however there are several new motels close to the interstate. A photographer can spend all day just photographing all the old motels and signs in addition to the old downtown buildings.

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Photos

Route 66 sign
This sign is at the edge of town

Murals
One of the many murals that dot buildings throughput the town.

Federal Building
The federal building bured in 2007 and still stand in downtown un-repaired.

Train Station
Train Station in downtown is of unique architecture

Theater
Theater in downtown is still operational

Old Motel
One of the old 1930 to 1950s motels

Thunderbird
Motel along Route 66

Along Route 66
Motel along Route 66

Mural
A mural away form the downtown section

Motel Safari
The old sign for a 1930 to 1950s motel along Route 66

TeePee
Entrance to the TeePee---noted slanted front door.