Housed in the old railroad depot, the Cultural Center is a joint venture of the city of Gallup and the Southwest Indian Foundation.

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This area is not only famous for its beautiful turquoise jewelry but also its rugs with intricate designs.

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Kachinas live in the hills but visit during the growing season. There are spirits for the earth, sky, sun, clouds, birds, animals - actually anything of importance. Some kachinas deal with rain, fertility, good harvest, long life and the list goes on. They are intricately carved with some being painted. Boys begin to learn the art of carving kachinas after their 10th birthday.

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We saw pottery with beautiful designs. Gallup has some 102 native arts trading businesses as well as vendors who wander through the restaurants stopping by your table to show (and sell) you their wares. We saw zuni women doing the rain dance balancing pots on their heads. It was incredible!

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El Rancho Hotel was opened in 1937 by the brother of movie magnate, D.W. Griffith. Because of the number of movies shot in this area, the hotel became a gathering place for stars like Ronald Reagan, Spencer Tracy, Katherine Hepburn as well as many more. I believe the last film to be shot here was Hallelujah Trail starring Burt Lancaster and Lee Remick in 1964

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Downtown Gallup has 12 beautiful murals depicting native activities. This one is called "long walk home".

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We attended a Zuni dancing demonstration at courthouse square this evening. The dancers were members of the Zuni tribe and have danced in many venues.

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Fernando is the teacher of the dance group and is an accomplished musician who plays 12 instruments. He treated us to a medley of flute and vocal that included Amazing Grace on his flute.

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We got to pose with the group after the performance.

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