herzstein memorial museum

Clayton is a community that is easy to overlook if you're not familiar, but hidden just a block east of US 87, is the Herzstein Museum.The first thing that will grab you is the architecture. It is a beautiful building inside and out, and a walk through will tell you the story of the area, including that of Blackjack Ketchum, our most famous outlaw and the only person ever hanged in Union County. His hanging is notable because of its rather gory end. I could tell you the story, but if you drop in and let the curator tell you, you will get a much better rendition. You will also see some great Dust Bowl history, as well as the WPA history that the community proudly celebrates. You will not regret taking a short time to stop here before moving onward.

We have been to Clayton many times as our rest point on Texas to Colorado trips. We have had afternoons with little to do but check out the town and have even attended High School foorball games in the evening for entertainment. How in the world did we miss this museum!!This trip, one of our traveling companions had family with history in the area. He called in advance and the museum director met us on a day they were closed and opened just for our group of six.We were treated to a personal tour by the director who knew the history and stories of the artifacts in the museum. There is a mix of all kinds of things from artifacts of people and geography. Collections ranged from art, indian items to the medical instruments of early doctors.We were surprised at the variety and quality of the items in the museum. Would you believe there is an original Dali piece of art in Clayton? A wall hanging of iridescent colors made from butterfly wings? The switchboard from which the operator at Folsom stayed and warned others of impending danger. Photos of the museum building being overtaken by a HUGH dust storm during the times of the dust bowl. There is far more to see here than anyone would expect. We were truly surprised at what we missed on prior trips from having no idea this museum was here. For those who are mobility impaired. The building does have an elevator - although steps outside to get in. I can walk short distances and used my cane to get inside. The museum staff carried a folding chair for me to use as she toured us through. I was most appreciative!.. If you have mobility impairments it may be wise to make advance arrangements.There is no admission fee, but there is a gift shop with books and other items to purchase. Donations are welcomed. We ran out of time on this trip. We will return and can recommend it.

We had a great time! A lot of interesting wild west history and the local people that started the town and the expansion of the railroads into the west.

Herzstein Museum is a wonderful attraction in Clayton, just off Main St. This is a FREE museum that covers the history of Clayton. This museum has so much in it and covers two floors. You can simply breeze through it in just 15 or so minutes or you could stroll and take in the history of the crossroads town. Nice little section on old Black Jack Ketchum, if you don’t know who he is, you will when you leave. Really enjoyed it

Jerry at the Eklund Hotel recommended that we visit the museum & even though it was after hours & there was a private anniversary party, the family & museum curator invited us in to see it anyway. Clayton is so friendly! The museum encompasses not only the history of the Herzstein store & family memorabilia such as beautiful tea services & inlay furniture but also family friend Franz Dyche's treasures from around the world, the Dust Bowl impact on the county, native American artifacts & graphic photos of the hanging of train robber Black Jack Ketchum. This is a hidden treasure worth seeing!

This is a small museum with devoted volunteers and workers. They have created interesting exhibits of local history with the opportunity to have your own tour with docent! On the day we were there, they were having elevator problems (not an issue for us).I love the hidden gems we find each time we visit. My favorite was probably the Dust Bowl photos exhibit.

Had a tour of the whole museum lsdy was very nice and gave us a good tour snf lots of information showed us ehere bla ck jack was burried

Interesting local history along with many collections and memorabilia. Spent about 30 minutes here but could have stayed several hours free

I really enjoyed the dolls of the First Ladies, the kitchen and clothing displays. The records displays were interesting to look at too. Free Polite employees or volunteer

with lots of history from the area. It tells about the Dust Bowl era to the history of the Jewish people in New Mexico. Learned a lot about not only the area but the state/territory of New Mexico.

Chocked full of local and Great Plains history! They have a wonderful WPA exhibit. This museum is free and great place to teach the kids! Great selection of books, fact and fiction of area life to buy. Well worth the stop!

This is a nice museum. It is clean, well-lit, and has lots of interesting exhibits. My favorite was the Blackjack Ketchum display.

The Herzstein Memorial Museum is a great place to visit to get a flavor of the local and regional history! You will not find the individual attention anywhere like this. Where else will the staff find local residents that can share personal experiences and insights of your area of interest? Here they call them in if you are interested in a particular house or person or event. It is incredible! Visit. You will spend a fascinating afternoon!

A very desirable museum to visit. Plan on 2-3 hours at least. The quality of the collections and artifacts are wonderful. Museum staff very knowledgeable. The building is an attraction of itself. Had great time going through the museum. Just did not have enough time to view and study everything. If you are in Clayton, NM, this is a must see. If you are close to Clayton, NM, you should make a special trip to see. Has a nice gift shop.