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Ethan W. Eaton

Early Life and Journey to New Mexico (1827–1849)

Ethan W. Eaton was born on October 10, 1827, in Montgomery County, New York. Following the tragic death of his father in an accident, fifteen-year-old Ethan moved to New York City. There he worked as a clerk for a year before relocating to Connecticut to apprentice in the fine wire drawing trade. Returning to New York, he rose to foreman at a wire factory in Annsville, near Peekskill on the Hudson. Around 1847-1848, Eaton, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit, co-purchased a canal boat and operated it on the Erie Canal. In 1849, at age 22, captivated by the California Gold Rush, Eaton embarked on an adventure from New York by train to Cincinnati and then by boat down the Ohio, Mississippi, and Arkansas rivers. Upon reaching Santa Fe, New Mexico, he settled there, marking the start of a six-decade residency and a significant chapter in the development of the American Southwest.

Ventures in New Mexico (1850–1861)

Eaton embarked on various endeavors in Santa Fe from 1850 to 1861, including gold prospecting, running a mercantile store, and managing the 200,000-acre San Christobal Ranch in Galisteo, south of Santa Fe, where he farmed and raised livestock. During this time, he also served under Kit Carson in the Apache and Navajo Wars, forming a lasting friendship.

Military Service and Civil War (1861–1865)

Ethan W. Eaton demonstrated leadership by raising Company F of the Second New Mexico Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War. Serving under the renowned Kit Carson, he was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel of Infantry by General Canby for exemplary service. After a significant victory at Val Verde, near Socorro, New Mexico, where Texans were expelled from the territory on February 21, 1862, Eaton was ordered to command Fort Garland in Colorado. He led his company there for a year, ensuring the fort's strategic and operational effectiveness. In 1863, Eaton was summoned for service again. In his words, upon learning of a Navajo Indian attack on a government train, General Carleton tasked him with changing the tide of these engagements. Eaton's two-year command at Fort Wingate included taking prisoners to Fort Sumner on the Pecos River, during which he was promoted to Major and then Lieutenant Colonel.

Mining Ventures and Socorro Residency (1875–1881)

In 1875, Eaton moved near San Marcial, New Mexico, north of Socorro, and began mining ventures in the Magdalena Mountains. He acquired the Graphic Mine and a significant stake in the Juanita Mine, refurbishing a local smelter for ore processing. By 1880, he had moved his family to Socorro, and by 1881, had completed the Eaton House, which still stands today.

Personal Life

Eaton married Marcilena Chavez in 1851, and they had nine children: Teresa Marcelina, Joseph Isaac, Sarah T., Lita, Nestor P., Eduardo C., William J., Robert C., and Charles Eaton.

Socorro Committee of Safety and Later Years

On December 27, 1880, in response to the murder of Socorro Sun Editor Anthony M. Conklin, Eaton formed and led the Socorro Committee of Safety, responsible for several hangings over three years. He was a member of the Knights of Pythias and the Grand Army Post in Albuquerque.

Establishment of the New Mexico School of Mines (1893)

Eaton played a pivotal role in founding the New Mexico School of Mines in Socorro. Recognizing the importance of mining education, he lobbied for an institution to train future miners and engineers, contributing significantly to the mining industry's growth through education.

Contributions

As a Socorro County pioneer, Eaton took part in key military campaigns and the development of the mining industry. His leadership and investments in mining technology significantly contributed to the region's economic growth.

Enduring Influence

Eaton's influence endures through his descendants and landmarks like the Eaton House, highlighting his contributions to New Mexico's history.

Death and Legacy (1915)

On September 15, 1915, Colonel Eaton, a pioneer of Socorro County and a prominent figure in mining development, passed away at age 88 from injuries sustained in a gasoline engine accident at his residence. His legacy includes significant contributions to mining, military service, and Socorro's development.