A local author's new book sheds light on the history of the now extinct Tano indians, using kivas as a touchstone. The author signs copies and answers questions during his book launch this Saturday.

Ric Hajovsky wrote The Lost Kivas of San Lazaro based on his research into the excavation of two ceremonial chambers in the Galisteo Basin.

The kivas discovered at San Lazaro have been identified as belonging to the Tano people and are similar to but also markedly different from other kivas excavated in the area.

One key difference involves a crescent-shaped stone tool, which was likely used in fertility ceremonies. The tool is noteworthy because it bares a striking resemblance to objects found by Earl Morris at the Grand Kiva excavation site in the 1920s, and to objects found at various sites in Southern California. Beyond that, not much is known yet about the tools.

"It gives us a new bit of information, and maybe some new insight into trade routes and how people here interacted with people on the coast," Hajovsky says.

The book also includes a comprehensive time line, which elaborates on the migration and activities of the early Pueblo people. Not originally from New Mexico, Hajovsky says he wrote the book for those who, like him, lack a proper history of the region.

"Most of the time you just hear about the revolution, but my book tries to put it all into perspective," Hajovsky tells SFR. "The Tano were really the most important group in all the conflicts with the Spanish. You don't get that in a glossing over of the Pueblo people's history."

Learn more about the multi-faceted history of New Mexico's kivas at the book launch.

The Lost Kivas of San Lazaro

3 pm
Saturday, Feb. 19

Free

Garcia Street Books
376 Garcia St.
986-0151