BILLY THE KID'S GRAVE

Two miles south of town, you'll find the grave of William H. Bonney, better known as Billy The Kid. While on trial in Mesilla and sentenced to hang for the murder of a sheriff, The Kid managed to escape from Lincoln jail on April 28, 1881. It was a spectacular success that helped boost the man's popularity. The case was even mentioned in the New York Times. Instead of leaving the area, the brigand stayed close to the scene and wandered among his relatives. Sheriff Pat Garrett hears that the bandit is in Fort Sumner (a tip-off he gets from Pete Maxwell, brother of Paulita Maxwell, one of the Kid's conquests. A relationship Pete disapproved of). Dispatched to the scene, Sheriff Pat Garrett shot Billy the Kid twice, once in the heart, on July 14, 1881, in the town's disused old fort. Located next to the museum, which is packed with interesting artifacts, the grave is not spectacular, but it's well worth a stop. The Kid is said to be buried here alongside his two friends: Bowdre and O'Folliard. Some versions cast doubt on The Kid's death that day and the authenticity of the body buried here. Strangely enough, the grave is surrounded by a gate that cannot be crossed. The tomb is accessible after visitor center opening hours. For those interested, we also recommend a visit to the Billy the Kid Museum in town. The Old Fort Sumner Museum is also right next to the cemetery.