Gallup New Mexico The Indian Capital

Using indigenous history and natural beauty to encourage tourism in postwar New Mexico

“This Picture Map of the Gallup area was designed by Sane Fe artist Louis Ewing at the request of the Gallup Chamber of Commerce and is presented to you by a member of the Gallup organization.” [Text, lower right].

Although it’s advertised on the verso as ‘The Indian Capital of the Great Southwest’, the town of Gallup, New Mexico is a direct product of the westward expansion that characterized America during much of the 19th century. It was first established as a stagecoach stopover, and officially incorporated in 1881 as the construction headquarters for the Atlantic and Pacific Railroad. The image identifies a variety of archaeological sites and natural attractions within the area, though the distances are intentionally obfuscated. Mesa Verde in Colorado is about 165 miles away from Gallup (according to the verso), while Rainbow Bridge in Utah is nearly 300 miles away!

indigenous motifs can be seen throughout and Native American artisans – an integral part of the Gallup economy even today – are visible at the bottom of the sheet. Photographs and descriptions of various locations of interest, a regional road map, and summaries of local ceremonies (Hopi Snake Dance, Suni Shalako Ceremony, etc.) can be found on the verso.

Source: Encyclopedia Brittanica