History of the St. James Hotel, Cimarron, NM

08/02/2025

How long was the St. James Hotel called the Don Diego?
The St. James hotel changed names to the Don Diego around 1932 as the second owner took charge. The name stayed until 1985 when Ed Sitzberger bought the hotel and changed the name back to the St. James Hotel.
The photo below was taken circa 1938. Some things to notice are the part of the building in front with the two windows was originally a covered porch that was in the wagon yard and it has been enclosed sometime before ’38. Also, the kitchen and eating area were expanded. This is the one-story part of the building directly behind the woman watering the plants.
Pic courtesy HJG/Frashers collection

26/01/2025

The follow up to my first book The History of the St. James Hotel, Cimarron, New Mexico is finally out and available on Amazon. As a staunch old west historian, the paranormal in not my forte’, but conducting the research, meeting folks in the paranormal community (who are incredibly welcoming btw) and collecting all the ghost stories—it ended up being a really fun project.
Official marketing blurb below😊…

After the launch of “The History of the St. James Hotel, Cimarron, New Mexico” the outcry for follow-up book on the paranormal side of the old frontier hotel was overwhelming! Is the St. James Hotel in Cimarron, New Mexico haunted? Many think so. This 150-year-old hotel and saloon saw the frontier blossom. Numerous Wild West characters stayed, drank, and gambled in this old guesthouse. Twenty-six men are said to have died in the St. James, more in the streets of Cimarron.

Do they walk its halls and occupy the rooms? Does the original proprietor Henri Lambert’s wife Mary still reside in the hotel? Is room #18 haunted by a cowboy who won the hotel in a poker game? Is the Lambert’s son who died as a child still walking the halls? These and many other experiences are examined through interviews with patrons, spirit sensitive persons, and paranormal investigators who have all had experiences in the hotel. Also told are almost one hundred ghost experiences of this old west hotel.
A list of killings within the hotel and nearby is included, along with the names of those buried in the Cimarron Cemetery who were killed in the St. James Hotel & Saloon in Territorial New Mexico. So, explore the past, the tales and the Ghost of the St. James Hotel in Cimarron, New Mexico.

25/01/2025

Are the stairs in the St. James Hotel original?
This photo is the earliest picture of the stairs (at least that I know of) and was taken circa 1936. As far as it is known these stairs were part of the 1880-1882 remodel of the hotel by Henry Lambert, which formally added the east wing and the second floor.

19/01/2025

Moreno Valley Stage Line
Henry Lambert, the original owner of the St. James Hotel, arrived in New Mexico's Moreno Valley in 1868 searching for gold alongside many other prospectors. Below is an advertisement for the Moreno Valley stage and freight line from that era. Henry likely used this service to reach the gold camps and Elizabethtown (E-Town). He soon realized he could profit more by catering to miners and opened his first hotel in E-Town. Later, he moved to Cimarron, established the Lambert Inn, and eventually the St. James Hotel. The rest is history.

11/01/2025

St. James Hotel drink token
I recently acquired a St. James Hotel drink token from a private collector. It is possibly from friends of his (the Barnette’s) who lived in the Cimarron area from 1934 to 1955. The hotel became named the St. James circa 1875 and continued to use the name until 1932 when the second owner acquired the hotel and changed the name to the Don Diego. So this token is likely from 1875 to 1932 era.
The token is brass and stamped with “ST. JAMES HOTEL – GOOD FOR ONE DRINK” on one side, the other side is blank. If anyone has seen one of these tokens or has any information on it, please share with the group.

09/01/2025

Thanks John!! And great news!!!

With the previous two posts being about the demolition of the Kuhn Hotel in Belen, New Mexico, and the incineration of the Kenna Store/Midway Service Station in Kenna, I promised that I'd post some good news. And here it is!

Last fall the word went out that the historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, which opened in its current two-story form in 1880, would be closing as the owner, Bob Funk. was retiring for health reasons. This was a major blow on numerous levels, not the least being that employees of the St. James would lose their livelihoods and Cimarron would lose a major draw for visitors.

So it is with a good deal of optimism and relief that it's been announced that the St. James has been purchased and, in fact, the hotel re-opened on December 20. The new owners, Chad Mantz and his daughter, Alyse, are based in Red River and, when asked by the World Journal about their plans, Alyse said, "Nothing major will be changed and some of the same staffers will be hired back.”

Apparently the selling of the hotel entailed some vetting, with Chad Mantz telling the Taos News that the Funk family "wanted to make sure that it was being passed on to someone who would maintain the rich Western history. We got interviewed, so to speak, and then they chose us over I don't know how many different parties.”

There will be a new head chef at the restaurant, however. Bilander Conchas, who was chef at the Stray Dog Cantina at Taos Ski Valley and The Bistro in Red River, has been brought on and a new menu has already been created featuring “Old Western” and “Classic New Mexican” dishes.

So all that's left now is to pay the St. James a(nother) visit! The old hotel looms large in the history of City of Dust as the picture shown here is the 10th photograph I ever took in New Mexico, almost 20 years and literally thousands of shots ago. I intend to get back to celebrate that anniversary this fall.

Thanks to the Taos News and the World Journal for the info for this positive post! If you'd like to read a wonderful history of the storied St. James, I highly recommend "History of the St. James Hotel, Cimarron, NM" by Kevin McDevitt.

28/12/2024

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and Happy Holiday's! May your new year be filled with joy and goodwill. Thank you for being a part of the 'History of the St. James Hotel' FB family and friends!!
This next year we will continue to talk about the Wild West history of the St. James Hotel and maybe a little more of the incredible western history of northeastern NM and Cimarron.
Happy New Year everyone!

14/12/2024

Henry and the Hotel
Henry Lambert heads to New Mexico after getting gold fever from Virginia in 1868. He settles in Elizabethtown or E-Town as it was called. Henry buys the E-Town Hotel there, but eventually sells and moves to Cimarron, the new County seat in 1871. There Henry begins to build in the town where he would spend the rest of his life. Henry opens the Lambert Saloon or Lambert Inn in 1871, which became famous on the Santa Fe Trail for its food and drink. Later Henry would change the name to the St. James Hotel just before the Francisco “Pancho” Griego killing in the hotel saloon in 1875. Below is a picture of Henri with his pet parrot Polly circa 1900.

30/11/2024

The headstones of Henry Lambert, the original proprietor of the St. James Hotel, and his second wife, Mary Elizabeth Lambert. Henry passed away in 1913 in the "family section" on the 2nd floor, south wing of the St. James Hotel. Mary died in 1926 in California while visiting their son Gene. Both headstones are located in the old section of the Cimarron Cemetery.

17/11/2024

Henry Lambert's Naturalization Papers
Henry Lambert, the original proprietor of the St. James Hotel, was sworn in as an American citizen on March 12, 1888, before the Fourth Judicial District of New Mexico. Proud of his achievement, Henry displayed his naturalization papers in the hotel for all to see. Originally from France, he moved to America in the 1860s.

10/11/2024

FYI everyone!

**For Immediate Release**

**Revitalizing a New Mexico Icon: The Historic St. James Hotel & Saloon's Grand Re-Opening December 20th!!!**

Father-Daughter Team, Alyse and Chad Mantz, Alongside M Vacation Properties, Breathes New Life into the Historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, NM—Reopening for Adventure Seekers and History Buffs

**CIMARRON, NM**—The historic St. James Hotel, a landmark of the Old West, is poised for a grand reopening under the enthusiastic guidance of father-daughter duo, Chad and Alyse Mantz.
Drawing from their Kansas heritage, this project promises an enchanting blend of history, adventure, and culinary delights, establishing the hotel as a must-visit destination in New Mexico for travelers, food lovers, and history aficionados. Positioned along the renowned Santa Fe Trail, the St. James Hotel aims to reconnect guests with the rich narratives of the Old West while offering modern hospitality.
The Mantz family's dedication to preserving history and catering to the trend of “memory-driven” travel ensures an unparalleled experience for those desiring authentic, immersive adventures in the American Southwest.

**Honoring History and Legacy**
Since its founding in 1872, the St. James Hotel has hosted numerous Wild West legends, including Jesse James, Wyatt Earp, and Buffalo Bill Cody. It serves as a living tribute to the spirit and allure of Cimarron, the "Gateway to the Enchanted Circle." With roots close to Dodge City and Fort Larned along the Santa Fe Trail, Chad and Alyse possess a deep personal connection to the Old West's storied past. For them, the St. James transcends mere business; it represents a commitment to continuing the region's historical legacy.

**A Culinary Renaissance**
One of the most anticipated aspects of the St. James revival is the reopening of its cherished bar and restaurant, now featuring the culinary talents of Bila Conchas.
This establishment will serve as a true gathering place for adventurers, offering a unique setting to share stories and savor flavors inspired by Mexican cuisine. The bar will showcase New Mexico's finest craft beers and inventive cocktails, celebrating local flavors and traditions, making it a genuine Old West social hub.

The new restaurant will present authentic Mexican dishes with a twist, utilizing fresh ingredients sourced from local farms and incorporating distinctive spices and family recipes. Guests can expect signature offerings such as sizzling fajitas, homemade tamales, and enchiladas adorned with rich, smoky sauces—ensuring a culinary fiesta that will captivate food enthusiasts nationwide.

**Cimarron: The Gateway to the Enchanted Circle**
Cimarron is celebrated as the "Gateway to the Enchanted Circle," a scenic route renowned for its stunning vistas, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor activities. The St. James Hotel, with its iconic legacy, is set to become the nucleus of Cimarron, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in history amid the breathtaking beauty of Northern New Mexico.

**Boosting the Local Economy and Community**
The reopening of the St. James is anticipated to significantly enhance the local economy. The hotel’s revival will attract more visitors to Cimarron, support local businesses, and create job opportunities for those eager to share and preserve New Mexico’s rich heritage. From organizing guided historical tours to enticing travelers into the Enchanted Circle, Chad and Alyse's vision aims to positively influence the region’s tourism and community engagement.

**An Invitation to Experience History and Flavor**
Guests can look forward to a fully immersive experience, from the hotel’s historic charm to the vibrant atmosphere of the restaurant and bar. A diverse array of events, including live music, whiskey tastings, reenactments, culinary nights, and storytelling sessions, are planned throughout the year, ensuring that the St. James will once again be alive with the spirit of adventure, embodying the true essence of the West.

**Join the St. James Family**
As the grand reopening (12/20) approaches, the St. James Hotel is actively seeking team members passionate about history, hospitality, and outstanding service. Positions are available in various departments, including guest services, culinary arts, and event planning. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a significant and enduring legacy, contributing to a culture of connection and community.

**About the St. James Hotel**
Situated in Cimarron, New Mexico, at the entrance to the Enchanted Circle, the St. James Hotel is more than just a lodging destination; it offers an invitation to immerse oneself in the history, flavors, and rugged charm of the Old West. Originally under the stewardship of Bob Funk Sr. and the Funk family since 2009, the reopening under Chad and Alyse Mantz will ensure the family’s love for Western heritage continues into the future. With their leadership, this historic hotel and its acclaimed bar and restaurant are set to reclaim their status as New Mexico’s premier destination for adventure, hospitality, and unforgettable dining experiences.

For further inquiries or to make a reservation and be among the first to experience this iconic landmark, please contact:
Phone: 620-617-7418
Email: [email protected]

09/11/2024

Henry's Hog-Leg

Amidst the frequent violence in the St. James Saloon, the original proprietor, Henry Lambert, was cautious of the ongoing shootings and killings. To protect himself and the saloon, Henry kept an 1873 C**t .38 percussion pistol behind the bar. While there are no recorded incidents of Henry using the pistol, it's likely he brandished it occasionally to maintain order.
The pistol has been displayed at the NRA Whittington Center Museum in Raton, New Mexico, as part of a private collection.

02/11/2024

Coal Chutes in the St. James

The original saloon and hotel were heated by wood and coal fireplaces and stoves. Eventually, these were replaced by a boiler system, though the time of this upgrade is unknown. Two large cast iron coal-burning boilers were installed—one heating the saloon, lobby, and dining area, which remains under the saloon/bar floor to this day. The other, heating the hotel rooms, was located at the end of the first-floor east wing but was removed many years ago.
Both boilers had coal chutes, small wooden doors to the boiler rooms for coal delivery, which could then be shoveled into the boilers as needed. The picture below shows the coal chute to the boiler under the saloon, now covered by the wooden walkway in front of the hotel. A small wooden window at the end of the east wing’s outside wall also served as a coal chute.

26/10/2024

Mary Elizabeth Lambert's Garden
Henry Lambert (original proprietor of the St. James) married a second time after his first wife ‘Anna Elizabeth Stepp’ (nicknamed Mollie/Mary) passed in 1881. Henry’s second wife was ‘Mary Elizabeth Davis.’ They were married in 1882 after the remodeling of the hotel.
To support Henry’s cooking for the hotel and dining area, Mary E. had a huge garden to the west of the Maxwell House across Collinson Ave (today’s Collison). She grew a large variety of vegetables for the hotel and family use. Below is a picture of Mary and her garden and you can see how large it was.

20/10/2024

Still looking for the St. James saloon 2nd wooden bar
Annually I ask if anyone has seen or knows where the St. James saloon 2nd wooden bar is. This is the ornate wooden bar that was brought to the hotel during the 1880-1882 remodel. This bar (pictured) stayed in the hotel saloon until the 2nd owner (Haegler) purchased the St. James in 1932. At that time Haegler put the wooden bar in the barn as he closed the saloon and made it into a dining room. At that point the wooden bar disappeared and has not been seen since.
In talking with the former owner Ed Sitzberger several years ago, he stated that he was contacted by someone who had the 2nd wooden bar and wanted to sell it back to the St. James in the early 1990’s. He went to Taos and even looked at the bar which he stated was at the old Sheridan hotel (I believe this hotel closed many years ago). He was convinced it was the wooden bar in the picture. The owner was asking quite a bit of money for the old wooden bar and Ed was unable to make a deal.
In 2019 Ed and I went to Taos and looked for the bar, stopping at several older hotels on the main road with no luck. We did find a great old bar at the Casa de Valdez that was rumored to “might be” the bar from the St. James. Unfortunately, it was not, but was a great turn of the century Brunswick, Balke, Collender bar that did come from another saloon in Cimarron.
So, if anyone has any information on the St. James wooden bar please contact me.

12/10/2024

Lobby Door to the Saloon
During my last visit to the St. James just before it closed, I was asked if there was originally a door by the lobby fireplace to the saloon? The answer is, yes. To the right of the lobby fireplace and just inside the hotel entrance there was once a doorway. This doorway went directly into the saloon and has been in place since the 1870’s. There is a story about a horse thief in the saloon discussing selling a few horses he had just stolen, when the horse's owner and a ranch hand came through the saloon door. The horse thief, seeing the horse's owner, took off through this door into the dining room (today's lobby), while under fire from the owner. The thief then went out the north entrance of the hotel running across the street. He was shot at again, only to be felled near the entrance to the Maxwell House. The thief was brought back to the St. James saloon and put on the pool table until a burial could be arranged.
The first photo (recent) shows the 'once door' made into a look-through window between the lobby and saloon. The door was converted to a window for the second time approximately 10 years ago. Sometime prior to 1985 the door was made into a window for the first time. Between 1985-1993 Ed Sitzberger (then owner) converted the window back to the original door. The second picture shows the doorway next to the lobby fireplace. It was taken in the 1980s-90s.

05/10/2024

The lobby fireplace
The lobby fireplace is a part of the 1860s original building that became the Lambert Saloon & Inn in 1871. The fireplace has gone through remodeling over the years. At one time in the 1870’s the fireplace went through to both the dinning room and the saloon. The saloon side of the fireplace had a large stone facade. The saloon side of the fireplace was also close to where the original wooden bar was located, in the NE corner of the saloon.
A Juan Benito Archuleta was killed by Henry Lambert after being shoved into the stone fireplace in 1879 according to newspapers of the day. Archuleta was said to be under the influence and ‘abusing’ Henry in the saloon. Henry knocked Archuleta down where he struck his head on the stone fireplace and died a few hours later.
Today the lobby fireplace is only located in the lobby as the saloon side is closed and walled off. The fireplace is not functional these days as with the rest of the fireplaces in the hotel. It is believed that the mantle is original.

28/09/2024

Hitching posts at the St. James Hotel
Hitching posts for horses were in front of the St. James until the early 1900’s. It is unsure when the hitching posts were finally removed, but it is believed that they were there until those new fangled automobiles became dominant. In this picture taken approximately between 1900 to 1910 you can see the hitching post out front of the hotel with a horse attached to it. Picture courtesy, the Audrey Alpers Collection.