Mr. Corn, on arriving at South Spring, five miles southeast of Roswell, was favorably impressed with that section of the country as being what he desired for stock raising, and farming. He took out homestead and timber culture claims, just north of the John Chisum holdings, and later bought adjoining land, making 384 acres in one tract.

After John W. Poe introduced and successfully raised alfalfa in the valley, Mr. Corn procured seed and soon there were wide green fields growing on the south side of "Lovers Lane". One of the first apple orchards was also planted on 20 acres and first prizes and blue ribbons were awarded Mr. Corn on all the early displays of pioneer farm, garden, and orchard crops.

Three hundred head of cattle and a hundred head of horses brought from Texas by him, multiplied and grew fat on the fine grazing lands. He loved horses. The splendid horse named "Black Hat" was one he sold to Pat Garrett and was used by Billy the Kid when he shot Ollinger and Bell and made his escape from jail in Lincoln, where he was held for execution for the murder of Sheriff Brady. Pat Garrett contracted to make the adobes and walls for the Corn home which is still standing, and can be seen just south of Lovers Lane (in Roswell).