Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Official Newspaper of Eddy County since 1883
Several weeks ago, Archival Anecdotes featured a picture very similar to this one. In fact it is quite likely that both photos were taken in the same day.
Much like we ooh and awe (and even curse) a good spring snowfall, the people of New Rockford were captivated by the colossal storm that hit the area on March 15-16, 1902.
In fact, this is just one of four photos that the Eddy County Museum has which features Central Ave with snow piled high. Each of these photos serve as a good reminder that life goes on, even after the storm.
Even, more these photos seem to celebrate the fact that Central Ave was open, providing townsfolk and stranded travelers with access to local businesses such as the barbershop, the bank, and the watchmaker.
New Rockford Historian K.C. Gardner offers some context on this colossal storm.
Gardner says, "The March 21, 1902, 'Transcript' characterized the blizzard of March 15 and 16 as the worst since the winter of 1896-1897."
He explains that the storm came in slowly, so ranchers and farmers were able to get their stock in and sheltered. All trains were halted and did not resume operation until March 20.
At about 11 p.m. on March 15, a delayed train arrived with 83 passengers. The Mattson Hotel (which was located on the south side of Central Ave but is not pictured in the photo) and other lodging sites quickly filled. Other passengers found respite in one of the coaches while others still stayed in the depot waiting room.
The drifts on New Rockford streets were 10- 12 feet high, as shown in the picture. Merchants spent several hours of digging to reach their doors. I might add here, it is doubtful anyone was using a snowblower or heavy equipment to clear the path.
Snowfall is hardly ever convenient or fun, but it is also nothing new. The early residents of this area took each storm in stride, knowing good and well that one day the thaw would take hold.
