Taos Historical Society looks to the future of preserving the past
ON SUNDAY, DEC. 4, 2022, the Taos Historical Society held its annual Christmas Luncheon at The Sagebrush Inn. The event, according to President Ernestina Cordova, is one of two events the organization holds each year. “The Christmas luncheon always includes an auction to raise money,” which is now more important than ever, she explained. “We are hoping to open a museum in two or three years. Space on the top part of the old court house has already been designated for the Historical Society and we are working toward that.”
Local merchants and individuals donated dozens of items that were placed for bid in the silent auction. Cordova was quick to acknowledge their patronage. “We could not have held the silent auction without the local business owners and friends of the Historical Society who made these donations.
This is a once-a-year opportunity for us to raise money and we are grateful for their support.” Following the welcome and introduction, 102 members enjoyed a New Mexican-style buffet prepared by Sagebrush chef Juan Romo.
To say Romo’s enchiladas were wellreceived would be an understatement — more than one attendee enjoyed a second serving. After the socially stimulating and enjoyable lunch, storytelling expert, Los Rios River Runners Owner, “Taos’ Favorite Lesbian” (there’s obviously a story there…), and multi-generational, native New Mexican, Francisco Antonio Miguel Nino de Ortiz Ladron de Guevara — or Cisco, as we know him — entertained the wellfed audience. Wearing his signature, big-brimmed hat, Cisco dove into his eventful past and told stories about getting his start as a river runner (he was in an innertube) and some of the famous names (Neil Young) who he has guided down the sacred Rio Grande.
The event was not only a fun coming together to commune with likeminded people, but it was also an opportunity to consolidate the shared mission of the Taos Historical Society. “Our mission is to preserve the history of Taos and the surrounding areas,” explained Cordova. “We want to hold onto what is irreplaceable so future generations will know the history and our story will live on.”
The Society recently received a small grant from the Taos Community Foundation (TCF) which helped to finance the event. Lisa Tringali with the TCF was on hand helping to welcome and assist the bevy of members as they checked in. “We’ve got a busy weekend,” she explained about the TCF, “with a number of events and we are so happy to be part of this. The Taos Historical Society is one of our agency funds and we are here to support this great group of people.”
In addition to its annual Christmas luncheon, the Taos Historical Society holds an event every May and is active throughout the year on a variety of restoration and preservation projects. Cordova explained that they are always welcoming new members.
With a museum on the horizon, members of the Taos Historical Society are excited about the future of preserving the past. To become a member or make a donation,