Contributed by
Richard Collins
"La Carreta"
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Contributed by
Richard Collins
"La Carreta"
In Northern New Spain there was a particular lack of wheeled vehicles with which to transport goods.
The two wheeled carretas were the local answer to the problem. In New Mexico especially, the vehicles were used to haul heavy loads unable to be carried by mule.
The carretas were usually constructed entirely of cottonwood with tongues of hardwood when practical. They were known for the sound of their loud, screeching wheels, commonly greased by the plentiful but somewhat ineffective tallow.
Oldtimers reflected upon the carreta's screeching as music, recalling simpler times.
"In addition, in the month of April last, he was with me in two attacks which the enemy made upon our horse herd. He does not know how to read or write, but I know him to be worthy of that which the mercy of the kin.[May] wish to grant him."
(Medina, "Revista. . " AGI Guad.)
Ira de hermanos, ira de diablos.
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