A new book detailing the first Hispano settlers of the San Luis Valley and surrounding areas is now available for purchase. Author and genealogist Maria C. Martinez wrote the book, entitled “First Settlers: Las Cuatro Plazas de la Culebra,” detailing the lives of each household in the area from the 1860 census.
Martinez examined census information on the first settlers that included names, value of real estate, personal property, and birth places. The book contains narratives about the first settlers, including information about who they were, where they came from, and family group sheets.
The cover was designed by Martinez’ cousin Barbara Cordova, whose father is from Costilla.
“It’s not taught in schools, and I’m hoping the schools can use this as a history book,” said Martinez. “That’s what it is. It’s our history.”
Martinez is from San Pedro, Colorado and graduated from high school at Centennial High School in San Luis. Tracing genealogy for people since 1990, Martinez has access to a genealogy database with information on tens of thousands of people from southern Colorado and northern New Mexico, as well as information about the founding families of La Culebra, La Veta, Walsenburg, Conejos, San Miguel de la Costilla, and other San Luis Valley towns.
Martinez first began taking an interest in genealogy thanks to her father who would constantly share information about her family’s history. Among those stories is a true account of an attack on a wagon train near Santa Fe, New Mexico, which left everyone dead except for a baby boy who was taken in by the Martinez family.
“(Her father) triggered my interest, and I say that in the book,” she said.
Since finding her passion, Martinez has released several genealogy books and is in the process of writing another book based on information from voting records in Costilla in 1861, which she hopes will further illuminate the lives and contributions of early Hispano settlers.
Her books are more than records, serving as bridges to the past and connecting readers with the stories and struggles of the first settlers. This dedication underscores her mission to preserve Hispano heritage.
Martinez’ work is inspiring and provides rich information about the culture of the San Luis Valley. Through her meticulous research, she has created a resource for people interested in the cultural and historic fabric of the region. Martinez’ unwavering commitment to honoring and preserving the legacy of these families ensures their contributions are acknowledged and remembered.
“First Settlers: Las Cuatro Plazas de la Culebra” is available for purchase for $100. You can purchase it directly from Martinez by emailing her at sanpedro65@yahoo.com.
