The Haunting Legends of Alamogordo: From Pavla Blanca to New York Avenue’s Ghosts: Ghost & History Tour Relaunches Jan 17th 2026

Alamogordo and the surrounding Tularosa Basin are steeped in ethereal tales, blending tragic romance, frontier justice, and restless spirits against the backdrop of stunning natural and historic landscapes.

One of the most iconic legends is that of Pavla Blanca (sometimes called Palva Blanca or “White Paula”), the ghostly figure said to haunt the vast white gypsum dunes of White Sands National Park. In the early 1600s, a young Spanish woman named Pavla accompanied her fiancé, conquistador Hernando de Luna, into the treacherous Tularosa Basin. When Hernando vanished in the shifting sands, Pavla—clad in her flowing white wedding dress—wandered desperately in search of him, ultimately perishing in the harsh desert. Her spirit is said to linger, appearing as a translucent woman in white gliding over the dunes at twilight or under moonlight, eternally seeking her lost love. Some describe her as a swirling mist formed by the wind-sculpted gypsum, while others swear she’s a true apparition—a poignant reminder of love and loss in this otherworldly terrain.

Closer to town, Alamogordo’s historic New York Avenue—the vibrant downtown Main Street lined with early 20th-century buildings—is renowned as a hotspot for paranormal activity. These stories draw from the area’s railroad boom, Wild West outlaws, and cultural heritage.

According to an article in the Alamogordo News dated 3/17/2017, during the investigation, Hidden Haunts Paranormal with an episode that aired on Bravo a crew attempted to communicate with spirits and received responses from the unknown through radio frequencies, flashlight signals and dowsing rods. One of the investigators Brandt said she saw "figures in the dark while communicating" and even felt something touch her. Several of the investigators also felt a cold touch that made the hair on their necks stand up. Paranormal investigator Brandt’s conclusion was that the building on Alamogordo's New York Avenue was indeed haunted, and they contacted one female spirit and one male spirit who appeared to be a small child in the photographs they took.

One standout tale of the monthly tour centers on Willie the horse rustler at Victoria Alamogordo (913 New York Avenue), owned for decades by the beloved “Ms. Alice” Weinman and her family. In 1898, Willie was caught stealing horses, shot by the sheriff, and buried unceremoniously on the site (then an empty lot). His restless spirit is said to protect the shop—Ms. Alice, once a skeptic, became a believer after feeling unexplained touches, hearing voices, and sensing his playful presence. Visitors often report cold spots and a mischievous energy.

Mrs Alice of Victoria

Other haunts include echoes of fraternal lodge parties with ghostly dancing, shadowy figures from the avenue’s brothel and saloon past, and more subtle presences in vintage storefronts.

The avenue also shines with vibrant artist murals transforming alleyways into open-air galleries, celebrating local history through colorful, community-driven art projects.

Murals of New York Ave

Exciting Relaunch: New York Avenue Ghost and History Tour

The beloved New York Avenue Ghost and History Tour as featured in New Mexico Magazine, led by local historian Chris Edwards, is relaunching on January 17th!

This immersive walking tour weaves together spine-tingling ghost stories (including personal tales from Ms. Alice at Victoria), fascinating history—like the iconic early 1900s bank safes at 928 New York Avenue—appreciation for the district’s stunning artist murals, a docent-led visit to the Tularosa Basin Museum of History (exploring regional artifacts and exhibits), and a tour of the current exhibition at Otero Arts in the historic Women’s Club building.

A delightful break includes a pastry and coffee stop at Infinity Sweets Bakehouse & Cafe for fresh treats and relaxation included in the price. 

Sweets at Infinity Sweets

Date & Time: January 17th, 10:30 AM to approximately 1:30 to 2:00 PM

• Fee: $20 per person (includes Tularosa Basin Museum entry) and treat from Infinity Sweets. 

• RSVP Required: Limited spots! Email ChrisEdwards@kalhradio.org or text 575-520-2785 prior to the 16th by 3 pm for the tour on the 17th beginning at 1209 New York Avenue at 10:30 am. 

Whether you’re chasing ghosts like Pavla Blanca at White Sands or uncovering downtown spirits and stories, Alamogordo offers a hauntingly beautiful blend of legend, history, and art. This tour is the perfect way to experience it all—sign up today!

More News from Alamogordo

• A Deeper Christmas Reflection: Community Commitment and the True Spirit of the Season Merry Christmas from 2nd Life Media Alamogordo Town News – December 25, 2025
• Thrive in Southern New Mexico Faces Difficult Chapter, Remains Committed to Community Stephanie Hale, was arrested yesterday on multiple felony charges