Welcome to the Wortley Hotel, also known as Murphy Dolan, a historic landmark nestled in the heart of Lincoln, New Mexico. This site is a silent witness to the tumultuous events of the Lincoln County War, a conflict that brought the infamous outlaw Billy the Kid to national prominence.
The hotel was established in the late 19th century, during a time when Lincoln was a bustling center of trade and political activity in Lincoln County. The town’s strategic location made it a focal point for competing business interests, leading to the infamous Lincoln County War. Lawrence Murphy and his partner James J. Dolan owned the hotel and used it as a base of operations to maintain their economic and political control over the area.
In 1878, the tensions between the Murphy-Dolan faction and their rivals, the Tunstall-McSween group, erupted into violence following the murder of Englishman John Henry Tunstall. This incident sparked the Lincoln County War, a series of skirmishes and battles that would see the rise of Billy the Kid. The Wortley Hotel served as a crucial site during these events, providing a meeting place for those involved in the conflict.
Over the years, the hotel has evolved from a battleground of economic power struggles to a cherished historical site. It stands as a testament to the wild and often lawless days of the American Old West. Today, visitors can walk the same floors once tread by infamous outlaws and lawmen, feeling the echoes of a past filled with intrigue and danger.
The Wortley Hotel’s story is intertwined with that of Lincoln itself—a town that not only witnessed the rise of one of America’s most legendary outlaws but also played a role in the broader narrative of the Old West. Whether you’re walking through its halls or simply passing by, the spirit of history is palpable, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the destiny of this rugged land.
