Adobe Gallery Blog

The Atchison Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad, also known as the Santa Fe Railroad, arrived in New Mexico in 1880.  Shortly after, the Fred Harvey Company set up hotels at various locations along the route and promoted the American Southwest as an exotic destination. The company sold handcrafted souvenirs made by the local Native American people. Textiles, pottery, baskets and silverwork were sold in gift shops in the hotels and restaurants.  This enterprise provided new opportunities for the indigenous people to make a living.

Read more about this letter opener here.