Monica Fuentes Gallegos and Carlota Fuentes Gallegos

The ranch's best-known story is its shakiest. The program's own biography has Monica, pregnant, holding off Black Jack Ketchum and two companions with a six-shooter and wounding him, reputedly the reason he lost the arm; but Ketchum lost his arm after robbing a train alone near Folsom in August 1899, nine years after the raid the panel dates. The sisters had married the Gallegos brothers on one day, November 27, 1872, at Anton Chico. A family history gives Carlota's death as 1933, not 1936.

What the plaque says

Official Scenic Historic Marker Monica Fuentes Gallegos (1851-1909) and Carlota Fuentes Gallegos (1857-1936) Monica and Carlota Gallegos, widowed sisters, ranched 375,000 acres. Monica operated a general store and saloon and issued scrip in her name. When Black Jack Ketchum raided the ranch in 1890, Monica shot him in the arm. The sisters built a school and, in 1876, the Church of the Immaculate Conception, furnished with large Italian statues. Their vision ensured economic and social stability in Gallegos. Official Scenic Historic Marker New Mexico Historic Women Marker Initiative The New Mexico Historic Women Marker Initiative was founded in 2005 by members of the New Mexico Women's Forum in a statewide effort to recognize women's contributions to New Mexico history on the state's Official Scenic Historic Markers. The Initiative ensures that women's diverse histories will be remembered and told, and will inspire and provide a guide for future generations. The 2006 Legislature funded the project.

Where it stands

More markers nearby

• Ute Lake State Park — 24 mi