Page:Appleton's Guide to Mexico.djvu/264

236 The mining district of Coalcoman lies about 60 miles west of Jorullo. There are many mines of gold, silver, copper, and lead here. The deposits of iron are also said to be as extensive as those of the famous Cerro del Mercado in Durango. This circumstance, together with the proximity of the district to the Pacific Ocean, gives reason to believe that, upon the opening of some of the ports on the coast, and the development of the various mines, Coalcoman will become the center of wealth and commerce of the State of Michoacan. From Puerta de la Playa the traveler may continue the journey southward, crossing the Zacatula River to Acapulco, 235 miles distant. The greater part of the road follows the outline of the Pacific coast. The river can be forded in the dry seasons, but rafts must be used during the heavy rains of summer. The climate of Acapulco is very hot and unhealthy. The town lies on a narrow strip of land, less than half a mile in width, on which there is but little soil. It is surrounded by lofty granitic mountains, and has about 5,000 inhabitants. There are several hotels here. The harbor is the finest in Mexico. For many years Vera Cruz was the only other port from which goods were shipped to foreign countries. There was formerly considerable commerce between Acapulco and the Philippine Islands. The Pacific Mail steamships touch at Acapulco twice a month.

The distance from Acapulco to San Francisco is 1,836 miles, and the fare is (cabin) $100. The fare to Panama is the same, and the distance is 1,591 miles.

The terminus of the Morelos Railway will be at Acapulco. The town will probably become an important commercial center when the road is completed. At present the only object of interest to the tourist is the artificial cut in the mountain (Abra de San Nicolas), which has been excavated for the purpose of admitting the sea-breeze. The scenery of the landlocked harbor is picturesque.