2017 Anders in Álamos

It had been twenty-some years since Anders Tomlinson, cameras in hand, walked the
streets of Álamos, Sonora, México. Photos by Jose Antonio Figueroa Carrasco.

Anders Tomlinson taking a photo of Bishop Reyes Cathedral, Álamos, Sonora, México 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Time does not stand still but it remains in spirit. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

There have been changes in Álamos since Anders last visited. Influences and
multiple causations included a copper mine to the northwest and a silver mine to
the southeast opening up, 2008’s Hurricane Norbert, La Fuerza del Destino Mexican
telenova-soap opera filmed in Álamos and airing in 2011 and being designated a
Pueblo Magico by the Mexican Government and tourism industry in 2005.
Over the centuries Bishop Reyes Cathedral, the subject of the above Anders’ photo,
has stood tall. Álamos, like the world, has grown in population and cars.

Anders Tomlinson, 2017, putting gopro camera in place overlooking Álamos, Sonora, México. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Attaching a GoPro Camera overlooking Álamos. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

It is also true that Anders Tomlinson has changed in the two decades since his last
visit in the summer of 1996 to Álamos, Sonora, México. The biggest change is that
he is 21 years older and these are years when the changes in body and mind are
accelerating. In these years technology has changed influencing how and what he
uses to document. Anders, above, is attaching a GoPro camera around a tree
trunk with a wrap-able mini-tripod. Colonial Álamos lays before him in all its granduer.
This trip would help Anders understand how much his “eye as the beholder” has
changed. He still approaches projects with the same focus to document and
preserve data for the future to look back on. He stills marshals inclusiveness over
value judgements. Álamos continues on as it always had.

Anders Tomlinson and Tony Estrada at Reynas restaurant in Álamos, Sonora, México, march 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Anders with Museo director Tony Estrada. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

Somethings have changed little over the years. Tony Estrada is still the director of
the Museo Costumbrista de Sonora. He has been in this position for 33 years.
He is well-respected in this capacity and is also known as an artist-sculptor.
He and his wife Lupita, herself an artist, also manage Galeria Rincon de Arte
in centro Álamos one block south of the Plaza.

Walking through the large gardens of Hacienda de los Santos. Photo: Antonio Figueroa

A big change in Centro Álamos is the expansion of Hacienda de los Santos from one
Spanish Colonial mansion to three Colonial mansions and one sugar mill including footbridges
that cross the Arroyo Escondido and connect the expansive beautiful garden grounds,
restaurants, theater, and lodging. Anders spent his first two nights here and presented
clips to the Álamos History Association from Good Morning Álamos, Sonora, México
to a standing room crowd in the wonderful theater. Hacienda de los Santos provides its
guests with a map of the grounds. Anders found this helpful. The second night at the
Hacienda was one of the best sleeps Anders has had in decades.

Anders Tomlinson oon a hill in Álamos, Sonora, México, 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

To the east are Sierra Madre rising foothills. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

Much had happened in Anders’ life since visiting Álamos in the summer of 1996.
He found himself in the Upper Klamath Basin during the 2001 Klamath Irrigation Project
water shutoff that impacted both Klamath Falls, Oregon and Tulelake, California
and made headlines around the world. This became a period of intensive film
production including a film featuring Jimi Yamaichi and the Tulelake Internment –
Segregation Center. This would bring an end to Anders’ traveling days and he
returned to San Diego in 2008 where he remained until the much anticipated
2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition

Anders Tomlinson takes Rigoberto Grajeda portrait at Casa Serena Vista, 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Anders and Rigoberto Grajeda do the portrait dance. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

There were many questions in Anders’ mind when the 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition
crossed the border into Tijuana on February 21st and hopped on an overnight bus to Navojoa,
Sonora, México. The major issue would be how well would Anders travel. Since 2008 the
longest trip he had taken was 24 miles and had slept every night in his own bed.
His health required three hours of daily exercise and maintenance and a restrictive diet.
Folks in Álamos helped Anders including Rigo, seen above, who cooked several meals
at Casa Serena Vista that Anders shared and Rigo also drove him a couple of times
to film the streets and roads of Álamos. With help from Joan Gould Winderman,
Diane Carpenter, Antonio Figueroa, Luis Angel, Humberto Enríquez and others Anders
was able to accomplish many of 2017 Álamos Sonic Expeditions’ project goals.

Anders Tomlinson taking photos in Álamos, Sonora, 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

The Mirador’s view is 360 degrees of living Álamos. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

The Mirador had changed greatly from Anders’ 1996 summer visit. It is now a
destination unto itself including a restaurant. A walking path, 360 steps, from
downtown brings one to a large modern observation platform. There is a sidewalk
along the road all the way to the platform. It is an example of the fine rock work
that has been accomplished across Álamos from the arroyos to El Mirador.

Anders Tomlinson taking a photo in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico, 2017. Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Anders looks at the world in terms of shot scale – macro to micro. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

Shooting stills or video for a narrative requires awareness of shot scale to move
the story forward in an entertaining manner. Most of the gear Anders used on
the 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition shoot was new, small and produced 5,354 photos,
783 videos and 202 audio recordings.

Anders climbing La Capilla in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico, 2017.  Photo by Antonio Figueroa.

Anders knew this would be a many days hike. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

What was intended to be a seven day expedition turned into two weeks. Anders learned
that he still had the endurance that he had twenty years ago. The best purchase he
made for the trip was a pair of Vasquez Talus Pro GTX hiking boots designed for rock.
His feet were always comfortable no matter the conditions. Happy feet make a happy hiker.

Antonio Figueroa on his ranch in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico - 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson

Antonio Figueroa spent three days with working with Anders.

It was a pleasure for Anders to be reunited with Antonio Figueroa and his family.
Antonio took photos, video, recorded audio and provided a car for many street-road
videos. Locations included his family ranch east of Álamos, the new barrios to
the north and west, Uvalama, La Capilla, La Aurora, Hacienda de los Santos and
the Plaza. As noted, all of the wonderful photos in this article were taken by Antonio.

To see more about Antonio in the Spring and Summer of 1996 visit
Easter Sunday with the Figueroas on their ranch.

2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition

Anders Tomlinson arrived in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico on February 22 and
departed on March 6, 2017. Jose Antonio Figueroa Carrasco, an Álamos
photographer and friend from previous Anders visits 21 years earlier,
spent three days with Anders and helped document life in Álamos with
video, photos and audio recordings. This video are photos by Antonio
Figueroa edited by Anders Tomlinson.
Soundtrack by Denver Clay and SonicAtomics.

Good Morning Álamos, Sonora, Mexico

The 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition visited Álamos, Sonora, México between
February 23 and March 6, 2017. This scene includes time-lapse of receding shadows
across the Álamos valley as seen from the Mirador. Video and editing by Anders Tomlinson.
Music by SonicAtomics/Dig Brothers under the direction of Denver Clay.

To see more 2017 Álamos, Sonora, México videos

©2017 Anders Tomlinson and Jose Antonio Figueroa Carrasco, all rights reserved.

2017 Álamos videos

Anders Tomlinson arrived in Álamos, Sonora, México on February 22 and left
on March 7, 2017. His goal was to document life in Álamos since his last
visit 21 years earlier with a focus on audio recording and time-lapse studies.
You can learn more about this media excursion by visiting the whirlwind
2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition. A fine time was had by all.

If you stare at a cloud long enough it will disappear

Álamos Skies looks at Álamos, Sonora, México in time-lapse from three
different hills and on the ground at the Plaza and Tianguis. Blue skies
have clouds come and go and returns to an eternal blue sky.

Everyday is History in this Living Tapestry

This is the first of many “Moments in Álamos” videos from Álamos, Sonora, Mexico
between February 24 and March 5, 2017 by Anders Tomlinson. These are small
moments in the living tapestry that is “everyday is history” Included scenes
are a police man directing traffic in the Alameda, a small family heading into
downtown, traffic and kicking a bottle in the Alameda, an art reception at the
Museo Costumbrista de Sonora,teenagers singing outside the Centro Comunitaro
Nelita Bours and Bishop Reyes Cathedral, and quiet nights scenes in
the “Kissing Alley” and the Alameda.

A Spring morning on El Mirador

This is Álamos, Sonora, México as seen from the Mirador lookout on the morning of
February 24, 2017. This photo by Anders Tomlinson if printed at full size would
be nearly 15 feet wide. Music by Denver Clay. Ambient recording and mixing by
SonicAtomics. Video editing by Anders Tomlinson.

Art reception at the Museo

On March 4 2017, an art reception was held at the Museo Costumbrista de Sonora,
in Álamos, Sonora, México for the “Exposición Cine mexicano” in collaboration with
the upcoming Álamos International Film Festival. The event also was held with the
coordination of Municipal Culture of Cajeme and Association for the Fine Arts.The
speaker we hear is Sergio Inzunza, Director of Education y Cultura de Cd. Obregon.

Centro Álamos en la Noche

Antonio Figueroa takes Anders Tomlinson on a car ride from the
Hacienda de los Santos to the Alameda, Álamos, Sonora, México.
It is around 9:30 P.M, March 4, 2017.

A brief visit to the Plaza

An afternoon in the Plaza de los Armas in Álamos, Sonora,México. The video starts
in the late morning on a hill overlooking Álamos from the nort directly across from
the Mirador to the south. Scenes include a bicycle rally that began in the Plaza,
young kids coloring, a tour bus and a child being pushed across the plaza.

From garden to table

Morning in the campo on March 1, 2017 with Antonio y Teresita at their ranch a
couple of miles east of Álamos, Sonora, México. Food is gathered in their garden
and feed to the goats and cows – a fine example of “from farm to table.” Music is
by Antonio Figueroa and possibly his brother at the ranch. Video by Anders
Tomlinson and Antonio Figueroa. ©2017 Anders Tomlinson, all rights reserved.

Conga line at Hacienda de los Santos

Another Álamos moment, conga line, from early March 2017: 100 seconds with
the Estudiantina de Álamos performing at the Hacienda de los Santos in
Álamos, Sonora, México as a busload of tourists from Arizona join a conga
line. Estudiantina de Álamos is one of many cultural programs under the
guidance of the Museo Costumbrista de Sonora. The tourist group delivered
beautiful new acoustic guitars to the Estudiantina on this evening. Viva
Música! Viva togetherness! Video by Anders Tomlinson.

A family thats works together

It is March 1, 2017 on Antonio and Teresita’s ranch a couple of miles
east of Álamos, Sonora, México. They are busy working in the yard,
watering, weeding and building new beds for plants and vegetables and
discussing the day’s coming events. The scene shifts to the kitchen
with Teresita making tortillas on a wood burning stove. Video by
Anders Tomlinson and Antonio Figueroa. Music by Antonio and his
brothers. Editing By Anders Tomlinson.

Álamos Alameda Night Ride

A drive at night through the business and transportation
center Alameda in Álamos, Sonora, México. Antonio Figueroa
gives Anders Tomlinson a ride in his car on March 4, 2017.

Sunday night in the Alameda

It is March 5, 2017, a warm Sunday night, in the
business/transportation center of Álamos, Sonora. México.
The Alameda is busy with local friends and families
promenading around the plaza on foot, bicycles, motorbikes,
cars and trucks.

Yoreme Al-Leiya in Álamos

Februrary 26, 2017 Yoreme Al-Leiya, which means “cheerful Indian,” traveled
from nearby Navajoa, Sonora to perform at the Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos,
Sonora, México. Anders Tomlinson had the privilege of documenting this colorful
evening of dance, music, costumes and theatrical lighting. A wonderful time
was had by all.

Sunday morning in the arroyo

This time-lapse studies a March 5, 2017 warm going on hot Sunday morning
Tianguis outdoor market in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico. If one needs something
there is a good chance it can be found here along with family and friends
out and about shopping. When Anders last visited in 1996 the Tianguis was
on dirt and now it is paved with decorative benches and rock infrastructure.
And is much is the same: people shopping, mingling, talking, laughing,
eating and music… Video and editing by Anders Tomlinson.

Up, over and around Loma Guadalupe

It is Friday February 25, 2017 – 10:30 A.M in Álamos, Sonora, México.
This car trip travels up Calle Chihuahua and turns onto Calle Galeana.
Rigoberto Grajeda Grajeda is driving the Casa Serena Vista’s car.

An afternoon in a La Capilla garden

On March 6, 2017 we visited a children’ garden at Lázaro Cárdenas del Río
in La Capilla, Álamos, Sonora, México, an Escuela Primaria Urbana Federalizada.
Jose R Nevarez, Trini, is the teacher and Roger Lewis, a local U.S. resident
who was very helpful at the start of this garden project. We were told it
is called the “Garden Abundancia” and we saw and heard
great exuberance
for gall things growing.

Another beautiful Álamos day

Rigoberto Grajeda Grajeda gives Anders Tomlinson a ride across
Centro Álamos, Sonora, México around 11 A.M. on February 25,
2017. The car he was driving was provided by Casa Serena Vista
where Rigo works as a driver, cook and gardener.

Saturday afternoon in Plaza de las Armas

It is a cloudy Saturday early March afternoon in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico.
Tourists are out and about walking and riding tour vehicles. And as the
old adage goes “if you stare at a cloud enough it will disappear” the plaza
becomes bathed in full sunshine. Soundtrack by Denver Clay and SonicAtomics.

The sun rises and the shadows shorten

The 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition visited Álamos, Sonora, México between February 23
and March 6, 2017. This scene includes time-lapse of receding shadows across the Álamos
valley as seen from the Mirador. Video and editing by Anders Tomlinson. Music by
SonicAtomics/Dig Brothers under the direction of Denver Clay.

A morning drive on an old old street

This is a drive starting in Plaza de los Armas along Calle Benito Juárez to Calle
Chihuahua in Álamos, Sonora, México on a sunny February 25, 2017, 10:15 A.M.
Rigoberto Grajeda Grajeda is driving. Video by Anders Tomlinson.
Music by Denver Clay, Soundtrack by SonicAtomics.

2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition

Anders Tomlinson arrived in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico on February 22 and
departed on March 6, 2017. Antonio Figueroa, an Álamos photographer
and friend from previous Anders visits 21 years earlier spent three days
with Anders and helped document life in Álamos with video, photos and
audio recordings. This video are photos by Antonio Figueroa edited by
Anders Tomlinson. Soundtrack by Denver Clay and SonicAtomics.

A special place in Álamos

Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, México is a special place
in a special town in a special landscape. It was originally built
for a wealthy silver baron in the 17th century. Photos and video
editing by Anders Tomlinson. Music is Los Hacendados performing
“Chan Chan” by Compay Segundo.

©2017 Anders Tomlinson, all rights reserved

Teresita’s

Teresita's Panaderia y Bistro on Calle Allende in Álamos, Sonora, México. 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Here is a sign of good things to come on Calle Allende next to La Puerta Roja.

Teresita’s Panadería y Bistro is a culinary oasis off well-worn tourist trails.
Teresita’s sits on the tip of a peninsula at the confluence of three cobblestone
streets: Galeana, Niños Heroes, and Calle Allende, and barrios with both
modest homes and elegant mansions. It should be noted that nothing
is far from another place in Álamos except the new developments that
march up the surrounding hills. It is a healthy ten to twenty minute walk,
depending on the walker, from the Plaza to Teresita’s.

Entrance to Teresita's Panaderia y Bistro on Calle Allende in Álamos, Sonora, México. 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Through this portal fine food and calming ambiance awaits.

Teri Arnold is the heart, soul, owner and chef of Teresita Panaderia and Bistro.
She is a business woman who understands bottom lines, a purveyor
of good taste who lives an expressive life and a host who knows how
to throw, or cater, a party. Anders first met Teri in 1992 when he was
separated from his holiday film crew with Mexican car permit issues.
He was fortunate to catch a ride to Álamos in a diesel Mercedes-Benz with
Teri and her then husband Rudy Hale. Laughs flowed freely as the Sonoran
desert passed by and Anders’ many Álamos questions were answered.

Tourist trolley in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico with Teresita's Panderia and Bistro advertising on its back. Photo by Anders Tomlinson, 2017.

Teresita’s believes in advertising in all medias that benefit Álamos.

Teri first visited Álamos in 1979, like many who have come
to consider Álamos part of their souls, as a guest of the gracious Nuzums:
Pember, Elizabeth and Kit Nuzum. Starting with the Casa Puerta
Roja and its five charming guest rooms, beautiful gardens, pool,
libraries, art everywhere and Teri’s gourmet cooking, Teri has
contributed to Álamos for over 30 years. She followed this with the already
legendary Teresita’s Panadería y Bistro which was once an art studio that
adjoined the Inn’s courtyard. La Puerta Roja is scheduled to reopen
its red doors to the public in December 2017.

Teri Arnold's La Puerta Roja bed and breakfst, Álamos, Sonora, ´México, 1992. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

The Red Doors that open into a tranquil yet vibrant world.


Teresita’s is a hip establishment with a cool owner and “suave” staff.
Teresita’s menu is loaded with modern and classic dishes presented
with style and grace. Great meals are enhanced with quality Teresitas’
beverages
including cocktails, handcrafted beers, licores, tequilas and
wines. Teresita’s is a gathering place for coworkers, families, old as
well as new friends and tourists seeking comfort and delectable servings.

Teresita's Panderia y Bistro. Álamos, Sonora, México. 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

It is easy to become involved with whom and what one is within this environment 

La Puerta Roja’s and Teresita’s Panadería y Bistro’s unique triangular property
was originally owned by the Almada family, followed by Levant Alcorn, who
sold it to the Pulis family from Des Moines, IA.  Jo Yelton was the owner before
it was purchased by Teri in partnership with her mother in 1987.

eresita’s Panaderia y Bistro. Álamos, Sonora México. 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Indoor and outdoor living merge as one throughout Álamos.

Álamos, Sonora, México is a town that appreciates its food, be it in humble
or grand home kitchens, street food carts, cozy cafes or first class restaurants.
Teresita’s Panadería y Bistro is a gastronomic treasure: a delicious cornucopia
of flavors, textures, cultures, seasons, colors, nourishments and atmosphere.

Teresita’s Panaderia y Bistro. Álamos, Sonora México. 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Large north facing windows broadcast a painter’s soft natural light.

It is easy to become involved with who and what one is with in this
environment that is both formal and casual. Here are Teri Arnold’s
thoughts about Teresita’s:

” Welcome to Teresita Panadería and Bistro in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico …
my little invention that got out of control, with the restlessness that
characterizes a child. We have evolved from selling a few baguettes a day,
a few days a week, to serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. We added a
special wine menu, full cocktail bar and craft beers. We love to make
specialty desserts such as chocolate almond torte, carrot cake with cream
cheese frosting and the classic French tarte tatin…” 

Teresita's Panaderia and Bistro in Álamos, Sonora, México, March 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Here is where the culinary magic is created.

“…Our breakfast pastries range from warm almond croissants to
morning glory muffins, scones and sticky buns. Our house-made breads
include, of course, baguettes, but the list has grown to include Italian,
Whole-wheat walnut, Rosemary, Gluten-free and Organic Sonoran White
wheat. We are always experimenting with new ingredients that we can find
locally, or harvest, but we still work to be as local, sustainable
and organic as we can.” – Teri Arnold.

Teresita's Panaderia and Bistro in Álamos, Sonora, México, March 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Teresita’s is known for its pastries and cake, have a slice of heaven.

Teresita’s has two special areas and menus for events: Rincon Frida-
full service for 20 people maximum and The Ramada- full service for
20 to 50 people. It is easy to picture an open-air event under a
starry Sonoran sky with scrumptious cuisine, tantalizing aromas and
sophisticated drinks. Behind the animated conversations there is a
bubbling fountain and maybe live guitars with singing.  There is a
special feeling in Álamos, Sonora, México that embraces one within
arms of contentment and good times: it comes on the wind,
a singing bird, children laughing, a friendly nod, romantic music,
caring concern, cordial acceptance and…

Teresita's Panaderia and Bistro in Álamos, Sonora, México, March 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson. Kitchen scenes.

Teresita’s celebrated its 6th anniversary in 2017.

During the six years that Teresita’s has been open, how often and
in how many languages has it been said “meet me at Teresita’s?”

Photos of Teri Arold in Álamos, Sonora, México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson and Claudia Karafotos. 1984 to 2017

Teri Arnold in her element: fun with people and Álamos.


The 1984 and 1995 photos were taken by Anders Tomlinson at La Puerta Roja.
The 2017 photo was taken by Claudia Karafotos at her New Year’s party
in Álamos. Partying with Teri are Philip Karafotas and Ray Auckerman.
Teri has know hardship: she has survived two airplane crashes including
one deep in the Sierra Madre Tarahuamara country enroute to Copper
Canyon that Teri survived with serious injuries. Her zest for life
and sharing quality moments with others may have been enhanced by
misfortunes she has experienced. Teri loves to laugh and smile.

Teresita’s Panadería y Bistro Serving offers dining in a 18th century
comfortable salon or out on the patio next to the fountain and rock
water wall. Teresita’s love dogs so don’t leave yours at home.
Free Wifi is available and all you can drink coffee. Enjoy!

©2017 Anders Tomlinson, all rights reserved.
All content by Anders Tomlinson unless noted.

Casa 6 Toluca

sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017.  photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Another sunrise on Calle Toluca in Álamos, Sonora, México.

Everyday and everyplace is history.

Calle Toluca is a short narrow little-used cobblestone street with six casas
and an old folks home, Casa Hogar Inmaculada, run by Catholic nuns
and owned by the Bours family before they donated it to the city. Calle Toluca
connects Calle Galena and Calle Sonora. Gaudalupe Hill stands between it and
the Plaza to the east which is a ten minute walk by way of the two shortest
approaches, up and over the hill or around its northern face. It is the start
of a new day on Calle Toluca in Álamos, Sonora, México. Estamos aquí.
As the song is sung, “here comes the sun.”

Sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017.  photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Birds, barking dogs, autos, trucks, radios combine voices.

Álamos, Sonora, México is waking up. The morning chill will be chased
away by a brillant rising sun. Traffic on Calle Galeana, Calle Sonora and the
busier streets that lead to the Alameda and Plaza can be heard in spirited
surround-sound. Barking dogs, motorcycles, bicycles and an auto suite of
honking, braking, accelerating, alarms sounding and car radio music compose
the hustle and bustle of a proud rural Mexican town going to work, school,
shopping or visiting. It is all about tempos, timbres, frequencies, transients,
crescendos, contrary motions, counterpoints and call and responses.

Calle 6 Toluca garden in Alamos, Sonora, Mexico.  Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

It is warm in the sun. Imagine the surrounding sounds as shadows recede.

Roosters crow and pedestrians talk and whistle amongst themselves.
Chirping/hissing/clicking insects, percussive parrots, sonorous doves
and a multitude of other bird species, either flying or roosting, embellish
a 3D soundscape which includes near, distant, left to right, front to rear
and ground level to treetop, or above, polytonal and polyrhythmic notes, tones
and phrases. All of this, and an unending parade of accidental incidentals
like horse hoofs on stone, contribute to a sunrise symphony known as
Álamos, Sonora, Mexico. Calle Toluca has a front row seat.

Sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017.  photo by Anders Tomlinson.

This is 6 Toluca across the street from the old folks home.

Casa 6 Toluca welcomed the 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition’s
base camp from February 25 to March 6. Anders and his equipment
stayed in the room to the left of the flowering vine-framed front door.
It had a bathroom and shower with the best water pressure Anders
experienced during his Álamos stay. Directly across the street from
Casa 6 Toluca is the old folks home which had been unoccupied for 20-25
years before the Bours donated it. The Bours also own the house to the
west of Toluca 6 and a large field that borders the northern walls of
all the homes on the north side of Toluca. Earle passed away in 2016
and his ashes are in a bench in the new section of the cemetery.
Earle and Álamos are one for eternity.

Calle 6 Toluca, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico.  February 2017.  Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Anders was given a key on a red string to wear around his neck to open this door.

Anders met Joan in 1992 when she was a regular visitor at the Nuzums
on Calle Commercio. Elizabeth Nuzum and Joan were good friends
who shared many interests including art and design. Joan Gould Winderman
is a free-spirited modern woman with an athletic vocabulary, animated
conversations and no shortage of percolating opinions. An upcoming essay
will document a couple of Joan’s handmade paper and photo art projects.

Earle Zimmerman, Joan Gould Zimmerman, Alamos Sonora Mexico, Alamos Spring 1996.  Photo b y Anders Tomlinson.

Earle and Joan, 1996, enjoying the spring kite festival atop Mirador.

Anders first met Earle in 1996 when he visited the Winderman’s house for
coffee one spring afternoon. As Anders was leaving Casa Toluca, Earle
pulled him aside and said, ” I want you to know, and I mean this as
a compliment, I can’t tell if you are a rich man or a poor man.”
If Anders had met Earle for the first time on a street Anders
could have said the same of Earle.

Inside the living room of Casa Toluca, Álamos, Sonora, México.  2017.  Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

As morning light streams in brightly, outside Álamos is alive.


The open floor plan kitchen, dining table and sitting areas have a wall of
windows that bring the immediate garden and surrounding mountains
into full view. Art, books, knickknacks and plants are placed with purpose
and design on shelfs, tables and walls. This month’s New Yorker magazine brings
bundled reflections from north of the border. It should be noted that Álamos
does not look at folks like Joan as being Norte Americanos because México is
part of North America. People from Canada, United States and around the
world who have taken up residences are members of the “foreign community”
in the best sense of the word.Each individual brings with them their culture
and set of beliefs. New Yorker serves an important purpose
on Joan’s table.

Inside the living room of Casa Toluca, Álamos, Sonora, México. 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Imagine the tales that have been spun in this room over the years.

On a bedstand in the bedroom Anders stayed in was a new book, published
in late 2016, of Earle Winderman’s letters complied by Joan Gould Winderman.
Joan was using this copy to make revisions for the next print run. A window
into the world of Joan and Earle can be discovered by reading her introduction to
Trauma and Drama: A Spanish-Style Home Restoration, Alamos, Sonora,
Mexico 1987 to 1989
. Anders enjoyed reading of Earle Winderman’s
interactions with people Anders had met in the early 1980’s.

On the roof of Casa Toluca, Álamos, Sonora, México. 2017. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Here are two of the famous domes from Earle’s Álamos adventure.

Earle chose Álamos, or Álamos chose Earle, to reinvent himself in México.
In 1987 he rented a house, went to Spanish school, bought a house from
Mrs. Smallens that had been vacant for eight years and began the renovation.
The search for “dome” men runs throughout the book. The long sought “dome”
men arrived November 28, 1988 and were finished in December. The house
was functionally completed in 1989 with Joan’s arrival.

Earle Zimmerman, Alamos Sonora Mexico, Calle 6 Toluca, February 2017.  Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Earle tried his creative hand by making these masks.

Anders thought “a love story” could be added to the book’s cover –
Trauma and Drama: A Spanish-Style Home Restoration, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico
1987 to 1989 – a love story.
Earle clearly expressed his love for reinvention,
new friends, language, life in México, the ying/yang of renovating a ruin
and partner Joan. Beloved Runner, a hybrid wolf, was by Earle’s side as
he wrote these “wishing you were here” letters to Joan.

Sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

A place where the elements and guiding hands work for flora and fauna.

Water is on the tip, or unfortunately not on the tip, of most tongues
these days worldwide. A major change from when Anders last visited
Casa Toluca is the swimming pool is now a garden with roof rainwater
being piped underground into the old pool. Water delivery was an issue
when Anders first visited Álamos in 1983. Municipal water in Centro Álamos
was being delivered for a hour or two. The reality is Álamos may have
had centuries of water management experience with limited water resources.
Casa Toluca well has has never failed in 30 years but has been deepened.
Casa Toluca 6 ownership wants no water that cometh to goeth unused. It is
a sign of the times: store water for when there is no water.

Sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Manual, retired, still comes to work on the yard he knows as well as his own.

Manual came with the house when Earle purchased it. He is a major character
in Earle’s letters. The relationship between property owners and those who
work for them is complex. It can be seen as a game with all players playing
against, and with, each other while always aware that they need one another
on many levels. It is a dance that can last decades.

Manual retired a long time ago and received a stipulated payment for his years
of service. He still comes to take care of the grounds he knows so well. He has
been here longer than anyone else that is still living.

Sunrise in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Welcome to a place of bounty and a cat with no name.

Anders spent time in 2017 outside a building supply store across the street from
the hospital. Several men from the “foreign’ colony were making purchases.
Everyone knew what the other was working on. They knew the joy of victory and
the agony of defeat. These stewards were a community within a colony
within a town. Earle was once one of these men. Today in 2017 his home,
in his absence, seems to be in good working order. Much of what Earle built
as a gringo building contractor still stands. He left a strong foundation
for the future. He left Casa Toluca in a better place.

The garden is a vital place with tomatoes, herbs, lettuce, flowers,
squash, chilis, eggplant, parsley, 10 flowering vines and 2 rose bushes.
There are 2 orange trees, 1 Meyer lemon, 3 lime, and 1 wonderfully sweet
grapefruit, lots of apple banana, several guava, 2 large mango and 1
pomegranite. Joan told Anders she would head north later in the year
when there was no longer food in the garden ready for the dining table.

Sunset in the backyard of the Earle and Joan Winderman home on Toluca Street in Álamos, Sonora, Mexico 2017. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

In the wee hours of the next morning it began to rain.

This was the view from atop Casa Toluca’s roof looking west into a dramatic
sunset. This day was coming to a close. Sometime after 1 a.m. it began to rain and
thunder. It was as if the rainy season of August and September had arrived.
in late February/early March Within a couple of days, as Anders prepared to head north,
otra lado, everyone was talking about the unseasonably hot weather.

©2017 Anders Tomlinson, all rights reserved.

Special thanks to Joan Gould Winderman
and Denver Clay for their assistance.

Robyn Tinus Álamos Art

Robyn Tinus art show at Cafe de Sol, Álamos, Sonora, México.

Robyn Tinus art show at Cafe Luz del Sol, Álamos, Sonora, México.

Early March, 2017: I went to see Robyn Tinus’ paintings at the Cafe Luz del Sol and have
lunch. It was hot outside but cool in the restaurant. Robyn’s paintings added color
to a comfortable cafe. It is always interesting to see a place through the eyes
of a local artist, no matter what the media is. Below are her paintings of Álamos.
The show also included many Indian subjects and a big lizard. Each painting had a title,
price and a “no checks” notice. Robyn Tinus provided photographs of her paintings.

Painting by Robyn Tinus: View of Alamos, owner, Joan Winderman, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico

View of Álamos, Sonora, México. Owner: Joan Winderman, Álamos.

I stayed at Joan’s Winderman’s house during the 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition.
Joan owned four of Robyn’s paintings at the time of my visit and they were my
introduction to Robyn’s art. Joan and Robyn emailed each other about the possibility
of my visiting Robyn’s studio. One of the expedition’s goals was to document three Álamos
artists but life in Álamos can take one down cobblestone streets that lead to unexpected
adventures that waylay the best of plans and immerse one in all that surrounds them,
especially, if the goal is documenting the essence of Álamos,
so an arranged meeting never came to be.

Painting by Robyn Tinus, The Quinceanera, owner John Sheedy, Alamos, Sonora, Mexico

The Quinceanera. Owner: John Sheedy, Alamos.

On the Sunday before I left Álamos I had scheduled spending the late afternoon-early
evening documenting the Plaza. Night had fallen and I was videoing people walking around
the well-lit Plaza when a large dog came into my viewfinder along with an unseen owner who
sat down on the bench next to me. I slowly panned from the dog’s head up to a woman’s
profile. She asked if I was Anders and introduced herself, Robyn Tinus. We had a brief
conversation that led to the making of this page.
(At some point in the future I will post the video on this page.)

Tarahumara Trade Route. Painting by Robyn Tinus. Álamos, Sonora, Mexico artist

Tarahumara Trade Route, 24 x 30. For sale $490.

To see more of Robyn Tinus paintings that are available to be purchased.
The following writings are Robyn’s thoughts on her art and process:

I am living my dream of expressing how I feel about Mexico through my paintings.
I live in Alamos, Sonora, Mexico and I have been actively studying art and
painting for 50 years. I have traveled throughout Mexico and I find it to be
an amazing place, full of culture, life, history, and natural beauty.

Painting by Robyn Tinus. Puente de Paulita, owner Catherine Christiansen, La Aduana, Sonora, México.

Puente de Paulita Owner: Catherine Christiansen, La Aduana, Sonora.

I started painting at 20 years when I enrolled in an oil painting class at
Santa Rosa Junior College in California. A year before that I saw a poster in
a frame shop of Van Goghs “Sunflowers” I bought it and had it framed and started
studying the French Impressionists, favoring Gauguin, Latrec, Matisse, and van Gogh.

Painting by Robyn Tinus. Alameda Evening owner Pamela Price, Álamos, ßonora, México

Alameda Evening. Owner: Pamela Price, Alamos.

I continued taking art classes and workshops and was fortunate to find some
very good teachers. After traveling extensively in Mexico for many years,
I knew that someday I would live in Mexico because that was
where I was most inspired to paint.

Robyn Tinus painting in Alamos, Sonora, México. Photo: ?

Robyn Tinus painting in Alamos, Sonora, México. Photo: Meg Keller.

I like to paint in the early morning before I get distracted. That is when
I feel the most creative, just pick up the brush and see what happens.
I give my paintings a lot of thought and planning and that gives me the freedom
to let the magic of the colors and paint happen.

Painting by Robyn Tinus. Tacubaya Etchos owner lives in Carefree Arizona

Tacubaya Etchos. Owner lives in Carefree, Arizona.

I give my paintings a lot of thought and planning and that gives me the
freedom to let the magic of the colors and paint happen. I finish my paintings
within a week, then leave them alone a for a week or two figuring out what
bothers me and making adjustments.

Painting by Robyn Tinus of view from Robyn's Álamos portal. Owner: Debra Patterson, Álamos, ßonora México.

View from Robyn Tinus’ Álamos portal. Owner: Debra Patterson, Álamos.

I enjoy painting the views from my house of Alamos, the palms, the mountains,
shadows and sky at different times of the day. I also use my photos and get
ideas from internet searches.

Painting by Robyn Tinus: Alameda Bolero. Owner lives in New York City.

Alameda Bolero. Owner lives in New York City.

I have been studying and creating art for 46 years. I am retired in Mexico and am now able
to devote much of my time to the love of my life… Painting.

Being surrounded by incredible beauty and culture in the 400 year old
pueblo magico, Alamos, keeps me inspired.

Painting by Robyn Tinus: Burros on the road to San Bernardo, owner Lorreta Childs, Alameda, Ca. 

Burros on the road to San Bernardo. Owner: Lorreta Childs, Alameda, Ca.

Alamos and the surrounding countryside with its ranchero culture provides
much inspiration for paintings.

First Day of School. Painting by Robyn Tinus. Tarahumara Indian girls going to school. Álamos, Sonora, Mexico artist

First Day of School. Owner: Joan Winderman, Alamos.

I love to paint the Tarahumara Indian girls from the nearby copper canyon
region, in their colorful full skirts and blouses. Bringing them to life on my
canvas probably gives me the most personal satisfaction… Robyn Tinus

Robyn Tinus art show at Cafe de Sol, Álamos, Sonora, México. march 2017. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Robyn Tinus Álamos art show at the Cafe Luz del Sol, March 7, 2017.

Many Álamos homes have walls covered with wondrous art including Robyn Tinus’ paintings. To see more Robyn Tinus paintings. All of her paintings are original and painted in her Álamos, Sonora, México studio. The painting are on stretched canvas with wooden frames. The canvas wraps around the sides. They are painted “gallery style” so they have a finished look and a frame is not needed.

©2017 Robyn Tinus and alamos-sonora-mexico.com, all rights reserved.

Galeria Rincon del Arte

Galarie Rincon del Arte, Álamos, Sonora, México.  Entrance.  Photo by Anders Tomlinson, 2017.

Street entrance on Calle Obregon No. 5A.

From the street there is only a simple sign that gives any indication of what is in store for the
viewer if they proceed down the long carriageway with bougainvillea covered arches.
Galeria Rincon del Arte, located at Obregon street no. 5a, is part of a building
that belongs to Mrs. Edith Garcia Almada. The entire block, in the nineteenth century,
belonged to the Almada family. Everything in Álamos has a history.
Galeria Rincon del Arte translates into English as the Corner Art Gallery.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

The sounds of the street become muffled as peaceful garden grounds invite one in.

As one walks down the mysterious carriageway several sculptures and masks indicate
that this is a gallery that embraces surrealism, modern and contemporary art. The
human form is present. On this hot March 5, 2017 afternoon the grounds were
welcomed cool shade, natural air conditioning at its best.

Galeria Rincon del Arte courtyard in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017.  Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

The shaded courtyard is a gallery-sculpture garden unto itself.

The age, centuries, of these man-made walls became apparent, now supports for
creative hand-made expressions. In the corner a darkened interior is seen
through a wide open doorway. A single light, surrounded by objects of
different shapes and dimensions, beckons.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

Lupita making art the old way, by hand.

Once I was inside the single room gallery, Lupita, co-manager with her husband
Tony Estrada Cantúa, came over from working on a clay dove at a small work table, while
talking with an American women who now lives in Álamos, and turned the lights on for me.

 Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

The gallery is a modest room but the artwork is anything but.

I must issue a disclaimer: I have been influenced by the likes of Miro, Ernst, Dali, Klee,
Chagall, Klimt, Magritte, Tanguy, Tamayo, Tobey… and the spirits here in the Galeria Rincon
del Arte
resonated with my creative soul. This is not a local art gallery, it is a worldly
gallery. One is greeted by many art forms. The room is small but it becomes larger as one
looks. There is art of all creative expression on the floor, tables, cabinets and walls.

Paintings by Roberto Bloor and Margo Findlay. Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

Paintings by longtime Álamos residents Roberto Bloor and Margo Findlay.


Anders visited both Roberto Bloor and Margo Findlay during his last visit in the
summer of 1996. Both Roberto and Margo were gracious with their time and their surroundings,
large rooms with high ceilings, were covered with their artworks. It was clear that art was
a calling for these two individuals whose lives impacted many in Álamos.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

Many medias are on display by capable artists.

The artists exhibiting at Galleria Rincon del Arte included:
Enrique Aviles Martinez, Luis Martin Lopez Sahagun, Fernado Quiroz, Anadelia Salido,
Bernardete McCalister, Meztli Estrada Montoya, Jerry Rosenfeld, Roberto Bloor,
Margo Findlay, Javier Lopez Ortiz, Lily Sapien, Frank Clement , Rafael Saenz,
Arturo Hernandez, Daan Hoekstra, Ana Bertha Waldez and Angel Luzanilla.
If one was to google any of the artists names there is a good chance you would begin
a colorful stroll down a new art discovery path.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

Creative spirits are alive and well presented at Galeria Rincon del Arte.

This is an unusual place. It could be anywhere on the planet where art is challenging,
exciting and important for the gallery owners. Galarie Rincon del Arte is an
international gallery residing in a Spanish Colonial town, off the beaten path, a mere
450 miles from the Arizona-Mexico border. Here the human spirit is on display.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

They are there, silent, but with a voice.

Art is in the eye of the beholder, and mystically, in the art’s eyes reflecting on
the viewer. The art here was unexpected but not surprising knowing the
involvement of Tony and Lupita in local and statewide art scenes.

Galeria Rincon del Arte in Álamos, Sonora, México. March 6, 2017. Photo By Anders Tomlinson.

Outside, art is everywhere if one looks closely

In a salute to the surrealistic spirit I give the Galeria Rincon del Arte one hand with
five thumbs up. My visit was cut short because the 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition
was drawing to a close and there was still much to do around town. I could have easily
spent an afternoon contemplating all that Galeria Rincon del Arte has to offer.

©2017 Anders Tomlinson and Galeria Rincon del Arte, all rights reserved.

Hacienda de los Santos

Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, Sonora, México - February 26, 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson. layout of resort.

Hacienda de los Santos is a resort with a mission of excellence.

There is a special place in Álamos, Sonora, México and its name is
Hacienda de los Santos. It is a charming resort that can only be truly
appreciated by being there and in it’s moment. This cultural oasis has grown
over the years as owners Jim and Nancy Swickard developed three adjoining
colonial mansions and a sugar mill into a resort of taste, craftsmanship,
beauty and grandeur with multiple gardens, pools, two gourmet restaurants,
theater, museum, gym, spa, putting green and 34 guest rooms, suites and villas.
The luxurious resort’s compound covers approximately 3 acres with some
85,000 square feet of buildings under roof including the extensive portales.

Hacinda de los Santos walkways, Álamos, Sonora, México.  Photos by Anders Tomlinson, March 2017.

Enjoy walking, looking, listening, relaxing, sharing, reflecting, feeling…

Enjoy walking, looking, listening, relaxing, sharing, reflecting, feeling…

This is a story in two parts, three if you count the videos following Anders’
account of his 2017 Álamos Sonic Expedition’s visit. Anders Tomlinson
first photographed the Hacienda when it was the Swickard’s home and
they had just finished a three year renovation after purcasing Calle Molina 8.
Anders and innkeeper Jim have had a long running email conversation with
Jim updating and sharing his Álamos thoughts and observations with Anders.
One of the foundations of this continuing relationship is that “every day is
history.” The following correspondence, June 4, 2017, answered a request
by Anders for historical background on what is now Hacienda de los Santos…

Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, Sonora, México - February 26, 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson. Carriage on display

The Hacienda’s architecture and furnishings are a museum unto themselves.

” It is believed that part of the lodging portion of Hacienda de los Santos dates
to the late 1700’s (remember that Álamos was incorporated in the 1680’s).  When Álamos
went into decline between 1900 and about 1950, Mr. Levant Alcorn was solely responsible
for revitalizing the village by selling mansions in ruin to Americans who for the most
part were wealthy with names such as Astor, Pabst, DuPont and others.  One family,
Mr. & Mrs. William Walsh (she was a New York socialite and he was a famous lawyer who
participated in the Nuremberg trials) purchased the home at Calle Molina 8 in 1950.

 

Casa de los Santos, Álamos Sonora Mexico, 1992. photos by Gary Ruble.

Christmas 1992 – back in time with an elegant beginning. Photos: Gary Ruble.

Jim and Nancy Swickard purchased Calle Molina 8 in 1989 and it would
become the cornerstone of Hacienda de los Santos ten years later. The resort
opened in 1999 after purchasing the first of five adjacent properties.

The Molina 8 property is 14,000 sq ft under roof ( the Swickards home for the
first eight years), the additional acquisition (property number 2 which was
subdivided in 1870 and a dividing wall built between the properties
which we opened up with large cast iron Peruvian gates) was 8,000 square feet
under roof, thus restoring the property as it was prior to 1870 at 22,000
square feet. Molina 8 is thought to be the second oldest oldest building
in the compound.  

Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, Sonora, México - February 26, 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson. courtyard with museum and theater

Next to the two restaurants and bars are a museum and theater.

The stone theater, although less than 20 years of age, is a copy of an Andalucian
18th century structure located in southern Spain.  The brick, boveda, ceiling consists
of more than 10,000 brick expertly laid by the hands of ‘albaniles’ from Guanajuato.
There is a ‘Cava’ underneath the theater where wine and liquor  are kept naturally cool
and also temperature controlled to 50 degrees for ideal conditions, especially for the wine.  

Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, Sonora, México - February 26, 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson. travel guide gives nighttime presentation

Dining outdoors under the stars during a musical presentation.

The main portion of the hotel (Molina 8) in the 1800’s was leased to the various
managers of the Mexican Mint.  It is believed that an underground tunnel existed
which connected the home to the Mint and the possible location was recently identified
by local ‘diviner’ Señor Figueroa, along with a second tunnel running the length of
the main portal.  When acquiring the property, the Swickards inherited a Witte one
cylinder generator which is believed to have been the only source of electricity in
the village in the 1950’s, as well as have been the source of electricity for the
German military when present during WWI, covertly operating a very tall radio
station/antenna for transmissions to Germany on eavesdropping of naval ships in
the San Diego area.  Photos of the German antenna exist in the local museum and
there are remnants of its construction on Guadalupe Hill in the center of the village.

Bridge connecting Hacienda de los Santos, Alamos, Sonora México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson, March 2017.

Spanning Arroyo Escondido and bridging Haciena de los Santos

The stone arched bridge which connects the two sides of Hacienda de los Santos
was built in 2000 and was designed by Mexican Architect Felipe Almada.  After the
‘Álamos Flood’ of 2008, the city requested permission from the Swickards to duplicate
the style for the village and five additional graceful bridges were built in the village.

casa de los santos, alamos, sonora mexico. the largest fountain which was originally the sugar mill's 'Mill'.  It had oxen and a stone wheel to crush the sugar cane.  The operation went into bankruptcy in 1710 and we are the second owner's of record.

Listen closely and one may hear the past come alive. Photo: Tomas Escalante

What is called the ‘Sugar Mill’ was an actual sugar mill which was built in the
late 1600’s by the Murillo family and it went bankrupt in 1710. The same Murillo
family, many generations later, still live on two adjacent properties to the former
mill. The Cafe Agave was built by the Swickards, utilizing much of the original foundation
of the mill. The present day large fountain is the actual ‘Mill’ where the sugar cane
was ground with two oxen pulling a large mill stone in a circular fashion. The original
well at the mill is still in use today, providing excellent water for the Hacienda.
The ‘Zapata’s Cantina’ dates also to the late 1600’s and was part of the sugar mill complex.

Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, Sonora, México - February 26, 2017 photo by Anders Tomlinson. art in patio

Wherever you look there is something to see.

Hacienda de los Santos has received numerous awards including:
Alvaro Obregon Humanitarian Award to Jim & Nancy by Governor Eduardo Bours &
Janet Napolitano. 18 Consecutive Years the AAA Four Diamond Awards (5.9% receive
this award of 28,000 rated hotels worldwide). Historic Hotels Worldwide (Member of
this U.S. National Trust Washington, DC non-profit group). #1 Small Hotel in Mexico
by Trip Advisor. Top 25 Luxury Hotels in Mexico by Trip Advisor.
#1 Hotel in Northern Mexico by U.S. News & World Reports.

Map of Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, México - 2017.

A map is helpful navigating the sprawling grounds and beauty buildings.

 With concerns about our environment, the Swickard family continues to make the
resort more ‘Green’ by having converted more than 90% of the lighting to LED.  Also,
most of the hot water used by their state of the art commercial washing machines,
which require the least water possible for perfect cleaning, as well as the kitchens
and many of the rooms and suites are heated by solar collectors which are not
visible to those staying at the resort.  For irrigation purposes, there is roof
catchment to harvest rain water which is stored underground including
two “aljibe” or cisterns..

Details at Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, ßonora, México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson, March 2017.

The past, present and future come together – the best of all worlds.

The Hacienda have been converting all air conditioners to heat pumps to conserve
on electricity and offers three types of bicycles to guests including electric.
The Hacienda is one of the very few, if any, Álamos hotels which have
a complete electrical back-up system for the kitchens, dining areas, water
supply and one fourth of our rooms.  This was done primarily
so if there was a power outage during a major event with hundreds of people,
the party would continue and there would not be any accidents or possible
hysteria in the dark.  Half the cost of the expensive project was the Caterpillar
generator, the balance was dealing with esthetics so it would not be heard or
seen by the guests… in other words a colonial structure was built
to conceal the unit.

.

Hacienda de los Santos airplane hanger in Álamos, Sonora, México.

The Hacienda’s elegant private secure airplane hanger. Photo: Peter Offerman

As a pilot, Jim Swickard, was instrumental in saving the local airport from closure
in 1999.    It is the only resort in Mexico which offers private, secure hangar space
for a dozen single and twin engine aircraft.  Also, the resort has 52 acres adjacent
to the runway which includes a two bedroom ranch house for guests that might want
to stay in Álamos for a month or even long term.  It is in a beautiful mesquite
setting, has all city services, an oversized one car garage, large laundry,
two baths, new kitchen, etc.  All of this is in a park-like setting with an
18th century Andalusian style gatehouse and is expected to be operation by
December 1, 2017.  The airport is rated for business jets.   The resort
boasts the largest private pilot’s club in Mexico with more than 500 pilot members
in ‘Club Pilotos of Mexico’.
… Jim Swickard, March 2017.

Anders Tomlinson at the Hacienda d los Santos grpahic.

Walking through the large gardens of Hacienda de los Santos. Photo: Antonio Figueroa.

After months of planning, the Álamos Sonic Expedition 2017 was scheduled
to kick off February 23 with Anders Tomlinson arriving and spending his first
night in Álamos at the Hacienda de los Santos. The expedition’s goal was
to film an epilogue for Anders’ film project, Good Morning Álamos, Sonora,
México
, which began in 1983 with his first Alamos visit and concluded
in the summer of 1996. Anders was interested in what had changed over
the past 21 years since 1996. He emailed his Álamos contact list for
changes that they had seen. Everyone mentioned Hacienda de los
Santos’
expansion and the increased number of cars on the streets.

Reception room at the Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, México. photo by Anders Tomlinson.

The reception room is entered from Calle Molina. Friendly staff await your arrival.

Anders arrived in Álamos before noon by bus from Tijuana and Navajoa.
On the ride into Álamos he was struck by the new construction west of
the hospital. He walked from the bus station in the Alameda, up
“Kissing Alley” and across Plaza de los Armas to the Museo
Costumbrista de Sonora
where he found Tony Estrada,
the director, at his desk. Tony gave Anders a short car ride to
the Hacienda de los Santos. Humberto Enriquez was at
the front desk. Humberto had been in contact with Anders for
over a year and had contributed photos and notes to
alamos-sonora-mexico.com. Jamie (Swickard) Alcantar entered the
reception area, just as she had in 1992 as a teenager while Anders’
film crew was photographing the very same room which at that time
was the living room. She selected Room 3 – Bugambilla
for Anders’ stay. One of the gardening staff carried the big
backpack that had all the cameras and audio gear to the room.
Anders had returned to Álamos.

Flowers at Hacinda de los santos in Álamos, Sonora, México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson.

During Anders’ visit the Hacienda employed seven grounds keepers.

On the walk to the room Anders noticed that art and gardens were
everywhere. Room 3 – Bugambilla was well appointed and felt like a
guest room in a friend’s luxurious home that opened a window to another
era back when Alamos was one of the richest towns on earth. Modern
amenities in the bath suite made life comfortable for a traveler who
had spent 22 hours on buses. Anders was relieved to see no television
to connect him back to where he had just come from.

Teatro Almada , Hacienda de los Santos, Álamos, ßonora, Méxicoi. Photos by Errol Zimmerman

Teatro Alamada is a place to share in style and comfort.

Later that afternoon, Anders and Humberto ran through a soundcheck of the
presentation for the Álamos History Association the next morning.
The theater’s acoustic properties impressed Anders. A ceiling of three
brick semi-domes, walls of different materials and a variety of chairs
including sofas and large upholstered club chairs enhanced the sonically
enchanted Teatro Alamada. The seating capacity is 88.

A view of Mirador from Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, Méxicoi. Photo by Anders Tomlinson.

Mirador lookout can be seen atop the hill behind the Hacienda’s gym roof.

Anders went up to the Mirador before sunrise on February 24th to take
in Álamos 2017 – the big picture. All the mountains were where he last saw
them two decades ago and there were more lights going up into the foothills,
especially on the northern side of Arroyo Aduana. The village had grown as
time and events marched on like they had in his own life. He was thankful
to be back. To the east the Sierra Madre spoke of other eras and Anders
listened lost in memories. Anders heard a familiar voice singing and
turned around to see the distinctive profile of Chaco, who had taken
Anders on a magical walk up Tecolote Hill on Anders’ last day in
Álamos during his first visit in 1993. De ja vu.

View of Hacienda de los Santos from the Mirador in Álamos, Sonora, México. Photo by Anders Tomlinson - 2017

Looking back at the Hacienda from atop Mirador. Notice one of the bridges.

There was a cool biting wind as Mirador’s shadow retracted across
the valley floor with the rising sun. Anders could see Hacienda de
los Santos’
large footprint spanning Arroyo Escondido. In a
couple of hours he would be presenting video clips that
demonstrated his Álamos film project and supportive websites.

Pool at the Hacinda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson

Arriving at the Hacienda one is welcomed by the pool patio in all its glory.

Anders walked down the Mirador rock stairs that had been built since
he last visited. He arrived at the Hacienda de los Santos a
half hour before showtime. There was no time to shower and change.
He had a bountiful fruit bowl in the Cafe Agave and a brief conversation
with Jim Swickard who informed him a large crowd was expected and
it might be good to delay the start to make sure everyone had
arrived. As Anders walked across the grounds a woman, also headed
to the theater, asked what was happening. Anders replied that there
were going to be Álamos videos presented by someone from out of town.
The theater did fill up. Once the show was ready to start a college
class from Álamos came in and lined up on both side walls and joined
Anders in standing through the show which started with a video of Álamos
circa March, 1983. When the show ended Anders thanked the crowd as they
left the theater and he went back to “Room 3 – Bugambilla” to take a
shower, rest and prepare for his first afternoon shoot exploring Alamos
2017: walking, listening and looking with camera/audio recorder ready.

Photos of Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, ßonora, México by Antonio Figueroa.

A splendid March afternoon at the Hacienda.

Hacienda de los Santos provides guests with a map of the grounds which
Anders found helpful since he was getting lost amongst the buildings
and gardens. He spent a second night at the Hacienda and enjoyed one
of the best sleeps in decades.

Hacienda de los Santos at night time. Álamos, Sonora, México. Photos by Anders Tomlinson.

Every night is a holiday at the Hacienda de los Santos.

The next morning Rigo from Casa Serena Vista picked up Anders at the
Hacienda de los Santos and drove him over to Joan Winderman’s
Casa 6 Toluca where Anders would establish a base camp
for the expedition’s duration. It takes a village to make a film.

Anders would return, in passing, to the Hacienda and photograph,
while audio recording, its grounds at different parts of the day.
He also videotaped two evenings of musical entertainment. Twice he lost the
windscreen to his small audio recorder and both times the groundskeepers found
it. The uniformed full-time staff of 45, and as many as 65 for large events,
were professional and attentive to their guests and represented the best
that Álamos has to offer. Hacienda de los Santos Resort
is truly a place where time stands still – a place where comfort
and elegance reigns in Álamos, Sonora, México.

2017 videos at the Hacienda de los Santos graphic

Conga line at Hacienda de los Santos

Another Álamos moment from early March 2017: 100 seconds with the
Estudiantina de Álamos performing at the Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos,
Sonora, Mexico as a busload of tourists from Arizona join the conga line.
Estudiantina de Álamos is one of many cultural programs under the guidance
of the Museo Costumbrista de Sonora. Rafael de Jesus Figueroa Ju, the
fantastic accordion player, is the current Estudiantina director. On this
evening the group leaders delivered beautiful new acoustic guitars donated
to the Estudiantina by the Desert Museum in Tucson.
Live Music and togetherness! An evening under Sonoran stars.

Yoreme Al-Leiya in Álamos

Februrary 26, 2017 Yoreme Al-Leiya, which means “cheerful Indian,” traveled
from nearby Navajoa, Sonora to perform at the Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos,
Sonora, México. Anders Tomlinson had the privilege of documenting this colorful
evening of dance, music, costumes and theatrical lighting. A wonderful time
was had by all.

A special place in Álamos

Hacienda de los Santos in Álamos, Sonora, México is a special place
in a special town in a special landscape. It was originally built
for a wealthy silver baron in the 17th century. Photos and video
editing by Anders Tomlinson. Music is by Álamos’ own Los Hacendados
led by local Jose Ramón Alcántar Hurtado performing “Chan Chan”
by Compay Segundo.

To see it as it is today visit Hacienda de los Santos Resort and Spa.

©2017 Anders Tomlinson and Hacienda de los Santos, all rights reserved.
All content by Anders Tomlinson unless noted.