Other artists and writers agree with him, for many now live and work amid this stimulating mixture of three peoples and three cultures: American Indian, Spanish-American, and Anglo-American. They like it for its clear air, magnificent surroundings, and exciting and congenial atmosphere.

Taos is actually three towns: the Spanish-American settlement into which Anglos have infiltrated, which is Taos proper; Taos Pueblo, 2 1/2 miles north; and Ranchos de Taos, 4 miles south. Each is distinct, yet all are closely allied. In the surrounding mountains are many other towns, Spanish-American farming communities, and fishing resorts. Taos Ski Valley, 19 miles northeast, is a popular ski resort.

As early as 1615, a handful of Spanish colonists settled in this area; in 1617 a church was built. After the Pueblo Rebellion of 1680 and the reconquest by De Vargas in 1692, the town was a farming center plagued by Apache raids and disagreements with the Taos Indians and the government of Santa Fe. The first artists came in 1898; since then it has flourished as an art colony.