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The Village of Willard is an agricultural community in the southern Estancia Basin. A main east-west line of the Burlington Northern & Santa Fe Railway passes through the village. In addition to some recent growth in the dairy industry, Willard has also received an economic shot in the arm in the wind-power arena. Its population is around 253 people.
A short distance from Mountainair, Willard is a nice little town to enjoy life in the desert Southwest. This information was adapted from the Mid-Region Council of Governments of New Mexico website. Check it out for more local information.
The Village of Encino has a rich history.
In the 1800’s a natural, year-round spring drew travelers on their way to the Territorial Capitol in Santa Fe. A large stone and adobe hacienda provided accommodations for the spring-seekers. Large numbers of sheep and cattle roamed the plains near Encino. One early rancher had 40,000 sheep at one time. Encino got a post office in 1904.
In 1905, the Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railway built track through the area, and Encino became a water stop. Before long, the town had two newspapers and several thriving businesses, including a mercantile started by Richard C. Dillon, who was New Mexico Governor from 1927 to 1931.