Built by Lucien B. Maxwell in 1864, the Aztec Mill's initial purpose was to provide wheat and corn flour for local residents, soldiers at Fort Union, New Mexico and to the Indian Agency in Cimarron. Capable of grinding 15,000 pounds of wheat per day, the building also served as a supply point for dispensing meat, clothing, blankets, and rations to the Ute and Jicarilla Apache who were living on a 1200 acre parcel of land nearby. Maxwell was compensated by the federal government for supply both the Indians and the soldiers. Maxwell hired an engineer firm from Boston to design the three-story grist mill, that cost some $48,000 to build. Vintage photo restored by Kathy Alexander.