The Myth of Santa Fe: Creating a Modern Regional Tradition
Using architecture as a touchstone, Wilson (architecture, Univ. of New Mexico) outlines the architectural, historical, and cultural story of Santa Fe. He delivers a brilliant portrait of a complex and rich cultural heritage, tracing it from its Pueblo and Spanish roots, through its brief but influential Mexican period, to contributions from what he terms the American melting pot. The intricate relations between the ethnic groups that call Santa Fe home are explored in detail and with sympathy for all concerned. Wilson also offers a fascinating nutshell account of the historic preservation movement in America and how it influences the current view of Santa Fe. Through a discussion of the history of Santa Fe's annual Fiesta celebration, he shows how civic boosters have crafted a public image that bears little resemblance to historic reality. Highly recommended for most libraries and particularly architecture and regional history collections.?Martin R. Kalfatovic, Smithsonian Inst. Lib., Washington, D.C.Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.