I met Manuel by chance as I walked onto the grounds of La Posada hotel in Winslow, Arizona. He’s a groundskeeper there, so having a background in gardening and landscaping myself, I stopped to admire his work and talk. He’s originally from Mexico and returns to his ranch and family there every year. He takes equal pride in his gardening and his seven years sobriety from Tequila. When I asked to take his picture he backed into this juniper, squared his shoulders and looked me straight in the eye.
La Posada hotel wouldn’t have been built, back in 1929, if it weren’t for the railroad that stops conveniently right at the back gate. It was quite the destination in its heyday, with guests like Gary Cooper, President Franklin Roosevelt, Shirley Temple and others too numerous to list. With building costs topping a million dollars, it was an extravagant showcase for the Sante Fe Railroad and the imaginative architect, Mary Colter. By the fifties it was shuttered, but four decades later, another twelve million dollars revived the hotel, thanks to an entrepreneur.
Had we known about this historical gem we would have reserved a room there, and if we return, we’ll do that.
If only to see Manuel again.
bluebrightly 
Great set of images!
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Thanks Sue!
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His face shows a quiet demeanour Lynne , but oh so full of character .I feel sure Manuel has a wealth of tales to tell next time round 😉
Isn’t it wonderful how the past can be revived .. with a little extra dollar of course !
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You’re right on both accounts. He was really fun to talk to, and La Posada is fascinating.
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Nice piece. The candid Manuel pic is my favorite
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Thank you! And that photo was taken by my partner, but that’s OK! 🙂
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Haha. I’m all into candid shots, that may be why.
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Some amazing stuff you stumble into, Missy! Love it!
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🙂 That’s the joy – the unexpected finds.
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Love his b.w. portrait on top. Classic.
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So much strength of solitude in this captivating portrait of Manuel. The juniper framing is fascinating, leading to all sorts of speculation. Hope you get back there again, it looks a fascinating place.
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Sublime portrait. I like it a lot!
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Lovely set of images, Lynn, what a beautiful place. My favourite has to be that straight and very solid stare at the top! A
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