A local author's new book sheds light on the history of the now extinct Tano indians, using kivas as a touchstone. The author signs copies and answers questions during his book launch this Saturday.
Ric Hajovsky wrote The Lost Kivas of San Lazaro based on his research into the excavation of two ceremonial chambers in the Galisteo Basin.
The kivas discovered at San Lazaro have been identified as belonging to the Tano people and are similar to but also markedly different from other kivas excavated in the area.
"It gives us a new bit of information, and maybe some new insight into trade routes and how people here interacted with people on the coast," Hajovsky says.
The book also includes a comprehensive time line, which elaborates on the migration and activities of the early Pueblo people. Not originally from New Mexico, Hajovsky says he wrote the book for those who, like him, lack a proper history of the region.
of the time you just hear about the revolution, but my book tries to
put it all into perspective," Hajovsky tells SFR. "The Tano were really
the most important group in all the conflicts with the Spanish. You
don't get that in a glossing over of the Pueblo people's history."
Learn more about the multi-faceted history of New Mexico's kivas at the book launch.
The Lost Kivas of San Lazaro
Saturday, Feb. 19
Garcia Street Books
376 Garcia St.