NMDCA News:

Los Luceros Historic Site together with the Amigos (Friends) de Los Luceros, host a special presentation with former state historian Robert J. Torrez, “What a Price a Human: Indian Captives in New Mexico.”

From 2–4 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 24, Robert J. Torrez will present the history of slavery in New Mexico, with a special focus on the Genízaro, or detribalized Indigenous people in colonial New Mexico. He will share his knowledge about the practice of incorporating Indian captives into Hispano households in Spanish, Mexican, and Territorial-era New Mexico.

He will also discuss how Native captives were acquired and valued—ranging from those who were regarded as adopted children to those who were considered property to be purchased, sold, and given away as inheritances or for commercial trade. Torrez, born and raised in northern New Mexico, served as the New Mexico State Historian from 1987 until his retirement in December 2000. He has contributed to dozens of publications and anthologies throughout his career and is the author of multiple books about New Mexico history.

Tickets can be purchased at the lecture and are $15 for non-Amigos and free for Amigos members. Site admission is free with ticket purchase. For more info email amigoslosluceros@gmail.com.

This special presentation offers the chance to learn more about the history of New Mexico while supporting Los Luceros Historic Site.