Josefina's Old Gate

The quaint adobe house known simply as “Josefina’s” has long been a symbol of warmth and welcome in the Historic Mesilla Plaza. With a foundation dating back to the early 1900’s and acquired by the Biel family in the 1940’s, for three generations this home has served as a place to gather, socialize and celebrate. This tradition lives on as “Josefina’s” opens it’s doors to the community and visitors of Mesilla.

“Josefina’s Old Gate” is aptly named for the dynamic and outgoing woman who lived here for nearly 35 years. As a prominent member of the community, Josefina Gamboa Biel opened her home and her heart to her family, her friends and to countless tourists and visitors. In this home, Josefina began the now long standing and time honored tradition of Christmas luminaries in the plaza. At one time she even operated a business known as “The Old Quaint Shop” where she sold religious items, curios, and clocks. Josefina’s spirit lives on through her daughter, Kathleen and her husband Bob, who have once again turned this small building into a place of welcome.