Mines (Discovery)

Cieneguilla described as richest gold fields that have been seen in this country, or even in all of new Spain, but mines deteriorating due to drought, lack permanent water nearby. Describes crude nature of mining operations, presence many Indians, other castes. Notes additional discoveries north, northwest, southwest Cieneguilla. Doubts they'll be worked because Sonoran miners lack intelligence, abandon mines if they don't begin to pay off immediately. Notes similar problems, including lack water, gold mines Aigame, 8 leagues (T. Sheridan, 1976)

Concerns attempts to regulate mining discoveries Cieneguilla; Alcalde de Sonora's sending lieutenant to mining area without notification Corbalan; Croix's directive Alcalde mayor act only under direct jurisdiction governor (Corbalan). (T. Sheridan, 1976)

(L. L. Woodward, August 1988)

Corbalan's letter to Croix describes silver mining areas and discoveries of gold and silver and control of gold. Cornelio depopulated because of lack of water though rich in gold. Soldiers of Altar find gold in Aguas Frias. Aid of rations to compania de fusileros, but need to avoid expenses; transport costs, baker must be paid by compania; lack of uniforms complained of. Transport of troops by ship and details on carrying water; describes poor maritime transport service on pacific coast. Letter confirms completion of expedition; discusses availability of rations on ship for infantry. Yaquis don't grow food and need rations. Concerns inspection and salary payment of dragones de Espana y Mexico and participation in expediton. (L. L. Woodward, August 1988)

Documents mention that new silver and gold mines are of low worth. It is stated that people don't want to work in mines due to low return and of danger of enemy Indians. Also mention that Cananea has been depopulated for these two reasons. (J. Tapia, April, 1988).

Concerns letters about military campaign being organized to resist Indian's attack. Letters about captured Indians. Accounting and other businesses of deceased governor is revised. Gold mine discovery in cerro antunes. Report on damages that occurred during Indians attack. Salaries paid to soldiers.

Correspondence between Pedro Fueros and virrey concerning mining operations at la Cieneguilla, Sonora. Includes routine documentation of quantities of gold produced and transported to Alamos, plus accounts of depredations suffered by Indians, settlers and miners at hands of Apache marauders. Also, account of discovery of silver deposits at San Marcial. (J. H. Ochs, August 1987)

Sieneguita gold places richer than Saracachi or Bacuachi. 1500 operavios there. (T. Sheridan, 1980)

(T. Sheridan, 1980)

Correspondence between Neve and virrey(?) Discussing financing defense against Indian uprisings; discovery of gold mine; and director of Tobaco, Polvora y Naypes. (D. J. McClelland, October 1987)