This abandoned New Mexico ghost town is being slowly scorched by the desert sun. It was once a happy community, but now sits in ruin. Read on to learn more about the site, and check out the eerily beautiful images photographer Johnny Joo captured at this abandoned desert ghost town.
The beautiful ghost town of Cuervo, New Mexico is languishing under the hot sun.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Red earth stands in striking contrast to the bright green plant life covering the town.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
All that can be heard here is the sound of insects and the distant whizzing of traffic on I-40.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Cuervo is an unincorporated town in Guadalupe County.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
This collection of crumbling homes feels like a time capsule from the 1950s.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
The town’s name is Spanish for “crow.”
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Settlement in Cuervo dates back to the 1500s.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
It was once used as a water stop for travelers and slave traders.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
By the beginning of the 20th century, Cuervo had transformed into a railroad town.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
In 1901, CRI&P trains began rolling through the county.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Cattle ranching began not even a decade later.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Cuervo sprang to life after the construction of Route 66.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Sadly, the later construction of I-40 ripped directly through the center of town and forced many residents from their homes.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Today, this little desert town is silently decaying.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
Check out Johnny Joo’s new book Americana Forgotten for more incredible images of abandoned places around the country.
Johnny Joo via Architectural Afterlife
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