Location Description and History

The New Mexico State TB Sanitarium was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and opened its doors in 1932. It originally had 50 beds but was expanded to eventually have 1,200 beds. Several structures comprise the location. Originally the site looked like the spokes of a half of a wagon wheel, when viewed from the air.The most predominant today are the dorms, where patients were housed. All together there were 9 wards for patients. The main hospital is now hidden back behind the NM State police headquarters (not shown on aerial photo). This building had an explosion proof operating room with glass block windows. There was also a kitchen, dining facility and a recreation hall where 16mm films were shown to staff and patients. In the early years the hospital did well. Service was described as outstanding by patients and staff alike. However, that would eventually change.

By October 1952 many unfavorable reports about the hospital had been reported. Alva Simpson, in a letter to the state governor, claimed that the biggest problem was that patients released from the sanitarium had to be treated for improper nutrition and lack of sanitation. The facility was closed shortly afterwards.

The old hospital was converted and became a battery manufacturing plant named Eagle Pitcher. This factory operated for many years before being closed down.During our investigation we found piles of trash, a dump left over from the hospital. Lying just west of the site, there are several piles of glassware, including old medicine bottles. The state police have also used the area as a shooting range, so gun shells can be found around the dump area as well.

The area has changed greatly over the years. The major change is a road that now runs through the site. The New Mexico State Police have also built a regional headquarters near the old hospital.

Aerial Photo of Site  (1996)

People have reported seeing glowing balls of light moving about the ruins after dark. Unusual noises have also been heard coming from the old dorm buildings.

Photographs

Click on the thumbnails to view the larger image

EVP

Question asked	Possible Response	EVP
Can you tell me your name? (Room 1)	No Response	None
Why are you here? (Room 1)	Sounds like "I'm one of the Dead"
Can you tell me where you are from? (Room 1)	Sounds like "Ranchero"
Why do you remain here? (Room 1)	A female voice is saying "I want to go right now" followed by the male repeating the question, "Why do I remain here?" or maybe "You want to know why I remain here?"
Tell me your name? (Room 2)	No response	None
Why did you come here? (Room 2)	No response	None
Why do you remain here? (Room 2)	Female voice, unknown answer is hard to make out.
When were you born? (Room 2)	No response	None
Is there anything you would like to say? (Room 2)	Perhaps "I won't see you anymore" but there is also a male voice if you listen closely