Unknown Mexico, Volume 1 (of 2): A Record of Five Years' Exploration Among the Tribes Western Sierra Madre

U nknown Mexico, Volume 1" by Carl Lumholtz is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book details Lumholtz's explorations over five years among the tribes of the Sierra Madre in Mexico, notably focusing on the Tarahumares and other indigenous groups. It serves as both an account of his adventures and a valuable ethnographic study of these lesser-known peoples and their cultures. The opening of the book describes Lumholtz's preparations for his expedition to Mexico, including the logistical challenges and the people he encounters while gathering his team and supplies. He vividly captures the natural landscape of Northern Sonora, detailing the flora and fauna, as well as the signs of ancient civilizations that once thrived in the region. As he embarks on his journey, he introduces us to local customs and interactions with the Mexican people, emphasizing their hospitality and the complexities of their social dynamics. This beginning sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the cultural and historical significance of the Sierra Madre and its indigenous inhabitants.P reparations for the Start-Our Dry Goods Relished by the Cattle- I Become a "Compadre"-Beautiful Northern Sonora-Mexican Muleteers Preferable in Their Own Country-Apache Stories-Signs of Ancient Inhabitants-Arrival at Upper Yaqui River-Opata Indians nowMexicanised- A FlourishingMedical Practice-MexicanManners-Rock-carvings-How Certain Cacti Propagate. Heavy floods in the southern part of Arizona and New Mexico, with consequent wash-outs along the railroads, interfered with my plans and somewhat delayed my arrival at Bisbee, Arizona, a small but important mining place fromwhich I had decided to start my expedition. It is only some twenty odd miles from theMexican border, and the CopperQueen Company maintains there well-supplied stores, where the necessary outfit, provisions, etc., could be procured. The preparations for the start consumed more than two weeks. Animals had to be bought, men selected and hired, provisions purchased and packed. In the meantime I was joined by the various scientific assistants appointed to take part in the expedition. The horses and mules were bought in the neighbourhood. In purchasing animals much caution is required in that part of the country, as even men