Notes from the Field: Las Trampas Revisited
Driving north on the scenic High Road to Taos with spectacular views of Truchas peaks as a backdrop, one passes through the Village of Las Trampas. On the right-hand side of the road, you can’t miss the National Landmark San Jose de Gracia Mission Church that sits prominently in the Village of Las Trampas, itself a National Landmark District. The patina of age radiates from this Church. The adobe walls are weathered. But its prominent size, design, and location along this mountainous highway arrest any passersby. Travelers often stop, take pictures, and go to the locked door, wishing to enter.
In times past, Jose Lopez—a frequent Mayordomo and elder who lived just opposite from the Church—would often come out to open the door. He graciously entertained visitors and responded to their questions and comments. The north windows in his house lookout at San Jose, and he had a habit of glancing that way anytime he passed those windows. Jose’s connection to San Jose was about as deep as a connection to a building could be. It was in his blood. He was and is not the only one.
Volunteers Needed: Rael Ranch Acequia Cleaning and Repairs
As spring inches closer, we are planning work on the Rael Acequia near La Cienega, NM yet again. Before the irrigation season, we will be back to clean the acequia by cutting back brush, shoveling out silt, and clearing an overflow pond. This spring we are also doing major bank repairs using stone and clay from on-site.
We have plenty of opportunities for volunteers to participate in cleaning days and on acequia bank repairs. Please email issac@cstones.org if you would like to join us for this project.