Old Lincoln County Courthouse
Step into the heart of the Wild West at the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, where Billy the Kid made his legendary escape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Old Lincoln County Courthouse
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into the heart of the Wild West at the Old Lincoln County Courthouse, where Billy the Kid made his legendary escape.
"A great walk back through history, with buildings so beautiful and so much to see in the museums."
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Billy the Kid's Jail Cell
Lincoln County Courthouse
Stand where Billy the Kid was held before his infamous escape. A pivotal moment in Old West lore.
The 'Big House' History
Lincoln County Courthouse
Explore the building's past as a general store, Masonic lodge, bar, and more.
Lincoln County War Exhibits
Lincoln County Courthouse
Learn about the violent feuds that shaped this frontier town and Billy the Kid's role.
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Planning Your Visit
Tickets & Access
Best Time to Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
🤠 Immerse in Old West Lore
This is a must-see for fans of Billy the Kid and the wild west era.
🏛️ Explore the Town
Don't just see the courthouse; explore other historic buildings and friendly locals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Get Your All-Site Pass
Buy one $7 ticket at the visitor center for access to all historic sites in Lincoln.
🚶♀️ Start at the Visitor Center
Tickets are sold at the visitor center, which is at the opposite end of town from the courthouse.
🤠 Immerse in Old West Lore
This is a must-see for fans of Billy the Kid and the wild west era.
🏛️ Explore the Town
Don't just see the courthouse; explore other historic buildings and friendly locals.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Old Lincoln County Courthouse as a fantastic spot for Wild West history enthusiasts, offering a tangible connection to the era of Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War. The building's rich history and the surrounding town's charm are frequently highlighted. Some find the ticketing logistics a bit inconvenient, with the visitor center and courthouse being at opposite ends of town.
"Great spot for wild west history fans. Lincoln was one of the most dangerous places in the US in the late 1800s as the feud between local factions elevated during the Lincoln war. Billy the Kid was in the middle of it and there’s a nice history of his arrest, internment and escape at the courthouse."
Chris A
"Great part of Lincoln history. Billy the Kid escaped from here. You buy a ticket at the Lincoln state historic visitor center for $7 and it gets you into all the state historic sites in town."
M Hall
"Structure was built in 1873 – 1874 by L. G. Murphy & Company. Known as the Big House/Store for 6 years, it was destined to become the center of both political and business affairs in Lincoln County. Over its long history, it has contained a general store, Masonic meeting room, bar, billiard room, sheriff's office, jail, living quarters, courthouse, city and county offices, school, and was the scene of Billy the Kid's daring escape when deputies Olinger and Bell died at his hands."
Cris Sleightholm
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Lincoln County Courthouse is located in Lincoln, New Mexico. It's part of a historic town that was central to the Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid's exploits. Driving is the most common way to reach Lincoln, as it's a scenic route through the New Mexico landscape.
Parking is generally available in the historic town of Lincoln. Visitors often find street parking or designated areas near the various historic sites.
Yes, the Old Lincoln County Courthouse can be visited as a day trip, especially if you're coming from nearby cities like Roswell or Alamogordo. Plan for travel time and allow at least a few hours to explore the courthouse and other historic sites in town.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Old Lincoln County Courthouse is included with a $7 ticket that grants access to all state historic sites in Lincoln. This ticket can be purchased at the Lincoln State Historic Visitor Center.
Tickets must be purchased at the Lincoln State Historic Visitor Center, which is located at the opposite end of town from the courthouse itself.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's recommended to check the official New Mexico Historic Sites website or contact the visitor center for the most up-to-date information on operating hours before your visit.
Recent renovations aim to improve accessibility. It's advisable to inquire with the visitor center about specific accessibility features if needed.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can explore exhibits detailing the history of the Lincoln County War, Billy the Kid's arrest and escape, and the building's past as a multi-purpose structure including a store, jail, and courthouse.
Most visitors spend about 1-2 hours at the courthouse, depending on their interest level in the history and exhibits. Allow extra time to explore other historic sites in Lincoln.
While not always explicitly advertised, the historic sites in Lincoln often have staff or volunteers who can provide insights. It's best to ask at the visitor center upon arrival.
The courthouse was a central location during the Lincoln County War and is most famous as the site of Billy the Kid's daring escape in 1881, where he killed two deputies.
Yes, the courthouse offers a fascinating glimpse into American history that can be engaging for older children and adults interested in the Old West.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted inside the courthouse, but flash photography might be restricted to protect exhibits. Always check for posted signs or ask staff.
The exterior of the historic building itself is very photogenic. The surrounding historic town of Lincoln also offers many picturesque scenes from the Old West era.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the stories of Billy the Kid and the Lincoln County War, which often resonate with younger audiences. Encourage them to imagine life in the 1800s and discuss the differences between then and now. The friendly locals and the historic town setting also add to the experience, making it a memorable educational outing.
🤠 History Buffs & Old West Enthusiasts
Immerse yourself in the exhibits detailing the Lincoln County War and Billy the Kid's infamous escape. Take your time to explore the building's various rooms, imagining the events that transpired within its walls. The courthouse, along with the other historic sites in Lincoln, provides a comprehensive picture of this pivotal period in American history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Billy the Kid and the Courthouse
Billy the Kid's most dramatic moment at the courthouse occurred on April 28, 1881. He managed to overpower his guards, arm himself, and make a daring escape. During his escape, he famously shot and killed two deputies, James Bell and Robert Olinger, solidifying his notorious reputation. This event is a cornerstone of the courthouse's historical significance and a major draw for visitors interested in the Wild West.
Today, visitors can walk through the very rooms where these events unfolded. Exhibits within the courthouse detail the Lincoln County War, the Kid's life, and his infamous jailbreak, offering a tangible connection to one of America's most enduring outlaw legends.
A Building of Many Roles
Over its long history, the building has been a general store, a meeting room for the local Masonic lodge, a bar, a billiard room, a sheriff's office, a jail, and living quarters. It also served as a courthouse, city and county offices, and even a school. This multi-faceted role highlights the evolving needs of the community and the building's central importance.
Recent renovations have aimed to enhance the visitor experience, making the courthouse more interactive and accessible. These updates ensure that the building's rich history, from its days as a bustling commercial hub to its role in dramatic Old West events, can be appreciated by a new generation of visitors.
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