In 1880 , Sergeant James C. Cooney was the first person to find silver and gold ore in the mountains of Catron County . He was reportedly killed by Chiricahua Apaches led by Victorio that year in what became known as the " Alma Massacre " . His remains are buried at Cooney 's Tomb . During this time Cochise was active as another well-known Chiricahua leader . Noted war chief Goyaałé ( Geronimo ) had several hideouts in the county . Later in 1880 , Buffalo Soldiers led by Sergeant George Jordan defeated Chiricahua Apache warriors led by Victorio in the Battle of Fort Tularosa . Four years later , self-appointed sheriff Elfego Baca was the hero of the so-called Frisco shootout in San Francisco Plaza
Alma Massacre
Alma Massacre
Catron County, New Mexico