Native Americans hawking their wares in front of the Palace of Governors. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Palace of Governors
It’s safe to say that the Palace of Governors is one of the top attractions in Santa Fe. While the building is no architectural marvel, it earns its historical significance simply for surviving for almost 400 years. The chance to walk through one of the oldest buildings in the United States is simply too good an opportunity to pass up for most people. I shared in that feeling before I went. Having been in it though, I now think that the reality is a little less impressive than the history might indicate.
The Palace of Governors was built by the Spaniards in 1610. Since its construction, it has survived various Indian revolts, a couple of wars, and a change in its functionality from a home to a museum. Given all the history that has occurred around the structure, one would image it to be filled with items that would vividly evoke New Mexico’s heritage. I was surprisingly disappointed. While there were some items that did covey this heritage, most of the museum seemed devoted to obscure people whose contributions were not adequately described. This condition seemed especially true for the overly long Jewish exhibit. I’m in no way discounting the contribution of Jewish settlers to New Mexico’s history. But, if one only judged New Mexico history by the Palace of Governors’ exhibits, they would think that New Mexico was another Israel. The exhibit stretched over several rooms and displayed items whose only historical significance was that they have survived to today. Frankly, the exhibit smacked more of political correctness than a balanced historical presentation. Unfortunately, these types of exhibits detracted from the museum’s role of imparting New Mexico’s historical significance.
The only other aspect of the Palace of Governors that stuck in my mind was the sight of various Indians sitting on blankets which were covered with jewelry for people to buy. I was saddened by the sight of these proud people being reduced to hawking their goods on blankets against the south wall of the Palace. I realize that the trade is lucrative and that they are making a living, but the whole scene seemed to me to be somewhat degrading. I guess I might not have minded it had the Indians had a store inside the museum instead of being outside against the wall. It made it look like the Indians weren’t good enough to be inside the museum. I’m sure the Indians would tell me that it’s better to be outside because there is more foot traffic. Still, I think something else could be done to give the whole scene a little more dignity.
Overall, I would put the Palace of Governors low on the list of things to see in Santa Fe. It’s not that there aren’t interesting things to see in the building. But, the quality of the exhibits is in no way proportional to the historical significance of the structure. It’s worth a visit, but one shouldn’t feel too disappointed if they miss it.
The Palace of Governors is part of the Museum of New Mexico, which is also made up of the Museum of Fine Arts,the Museum of Indian Arts and Crafts, and the Museum of International Folk Art. All museums are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission to the Palace is $5/adult. A four-day pass for unlimited visits to all the museums for $10 can also be purchased.
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