Gallup, New Mexico

June 4, 2010

 We stopped for lunch at a fast food place on the way to Gallup.  This trailer was on the hill behind the parking lot and represented a freer and more casual way of life.

 Although we had stopped in Gallup, we never stayed there. 

 Gallup is on the historic Route 66 and has a number of old buildings from the hay day before I 40 was built.  The Zia Motel is still in business and had a "NO VACANCY" sign out.

Joan shopped for a pair of Navajo-made earrings. She stopped at the shop below and Joan was invited to go into the back room and see how the jewelry was made.

This photo shows one of the artisans at work.

Large pots are like the one below are located throughout Gallup.

Dinner at the historic El Rancho Hotel.was like stepping back in time.  The hotel was built by D.W. Griffith's brother, and opened in 1937.  Many movie stars and politicians stayed there and you can read more details at http://www.elranchohotel.com/.

The grand lobby is filled with Western memorabilia including a Story-Clark player piano.