Rio Grande Sand in Your Shoes

Book excerpt: Told through the eyes of Isabel Ziegler, this book provides an important contribution to the historical literature of Espanola, New Mexico and the surrounding communities through its portraits of local people and events. Isabel and her husband, Dr. Samuel Ziegler, and their two young sons moved to Espanola in early 1946 as a result of Dr. Ziegler’s having been invited to help build a local hospital. The Zieglers soon became involved in their community. Isabel helped start a local library, was a member of the noted local trio, Las Conquistadoras, and became the first woman president of the Espanola Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Ziegler carried on a busy medical practice as general surgeon and physician, and also served on the Espanola City Council for over twenty years—even running for State Senator against northern New Mexico Democratic boss, Emilio Naranjo. Included are stories about Arthur and Phoebe Pack of the Ghost Ranch in Abiquiu who were the original donors for the hospital; Carolyn Dozier, a helper and friend of Isabel’s from Santa Clara Pueblo; and Ben Talachi, a San Juan Indian who worked for the Zieglers at their home. There are also accounts of the Zieglers’ experiences with Hamilton and Jean Garland of the fabled Swan Lake Ranch in Alcalde, and with the retired concert pianist John Marsh and his wife, Mary, from nearby Quartales. Lastly, there is a memorable portrait of Georgia O’Keeffe who was a patient of Dr. Ziegler’s for over 30 years, and a friend of the family. The book also reveals accounts of local politics and business, always with attention given to local people who participated. All in all, an important insight into the working and development of a local community.