The Mesilla Valley Independent

1877–1879

Returning in 2027

An annual journal of literature, ideas, and independent journalism.

Originally founded in 1877 by attorney Albert Jennings Fountain, best known for defending Billy the Kid at his 1881 trial for the murder of Sheriff William Brady, The Mesilla Valley Independent returns in 2027 as an annual literary and journalism publication dedicated to discovering, publishing, and celebrating exceptional writing. We publish fiction, creative nonfiction, journalism, essays, flash fiction, and flash nonfiction.

The original newspaper was published from 1877 to 1879, serving a community on the southern frontier—a place where languages, cultures, nations, and competing visions of the future met at the edge of larger political, cultural, and economic forces. Now, 150 years after the original newspaper appeared, The Mesilla Valley Independent returns as an annual literary and journalism magazine still interested in excellent writing that explores the people, history, culture, ideas, and character of the Mesilla Valley, the broader Southwest, and in writers exploring ideas from the edges.

Beyond Publication

We believe outstanding writing deserves the opportunity to reach its fullest audience.

The Mesilla Valley Independent will actively consider eligible published work for nomination or submission to appropriate literary prizes, national anthologies, and other forms of recognition. Depending on the work and applicable rules, these may include the Pushcart Prize, the O. Henry Prize Stories, the Best American series, and awards recognizing short fiction, essays, flash writing, and journalism.

Publication does not guarantee eligibility, nomination, selection, or an award. Our commitment is to identify exceptional work, understand the opportunities available to it, and make a good-faith effort to help it receive the recognition it merits.

A call for submissions will be announced on Submittable, Facebook, and Instagram in early 2027. Follow us on social media for updates.