Tales and Trails Along the Rio

Roswell, New Mexico: Old-Time Publications, 1986. First Edition . Trade Paperback. Fine/No Dust Jacket As Issued. 6" x 9. 268 Pages Indexed. While some historians have recorded the deeds of the famous, Clarence Siringo Adams, author and editor, has concentrated on the lives of ordinary people. He is well known for his quarterly publication of true stories in Old Timers' Review, and for such books as For Old Times' Sake, Little Town West of the Pecos, and In the Shadow of the Malpais. He was also co-author with Tom E. Brown, Sr. of Three Ranches West, and, to his credit are many published articles and stories in various western publications. In Adams' newest book, Tales and Trails along the o, he recalls the courageous move his pioneer family made to the raw land of New Mexico soon after this Territory became a state. He covers the time from when the family lived in a dugout on their homestead near Corona, through Adams' growing up years in and around Roswell. These stories, told so vividly, cover the time span of rapid change well. Adams creates a feeling of the times, as he recounts hardships suffered by his family and friends during drouth, floods, blizzards, deaths, and his disappointments. His ability to reflect on the era of the Great Depression of the early 1930's, and to recapture the despondency of a struggling people, shows unmistakably that he was there. The strength of character of these hearty pioneers is shown in the persistence with which they pursued their daily lives and planned for the future. True and lasting friendships, made in remote areas were strengthened by neighbor helping neighbor in their struggle for survival.