Silver

Notes great excitement caused by discovery silver Pimeria Alta, belief in greater riches-gold, silver, pearls, quicksilver-to north. Discusses Indian belief ancestors Mexican kings from Pimeria describes ruins of Casa Grande, Casas Grandes. Notes previous expeditions to Colorado River, proposes expedition led by himself to- 1) determine if California an Island and whether northwest Passage, seven cities Gran Teguayo, Quivira exist; 2) determine number inhabitants interior region, whether they are agricultural and can be reduced, or hunter-gatherers impossible to missionize; discover extent Mineral wealth beyond Pimeria. Notes inability presidio to mount Apache campaign because of Seri uprisings, occasional Pima troubles. Outlines size/ expenses proposed expedition. (T. Sheridan) (1976)

Further testimony of silver discoveries in the Pimeria Alta area, mine claims and registrations and regulations for mining the area, issued by Audiencia of Guadalajara. (R. Davis) (1977)

The cedula concerns the establishment of two presidios in Durango to protect the silver shipments coming from Parral. There follows several autos, informes sent to the king, telling of the need for such a step. A brief, very brief, glance at the document indicates valuable information on society, both Spanish and Indian, in this area. Should be reread in depth. Page 221, includes a list of five presidios in the area and the number of soldiers at each. (M. Bowman) (1979)

Extols Oca y Sarmiento's campaigns against hostile Indians, including pacification of Tepehuanes, Conchos and Salineros of Tizonazo as well as forays against Tobosos, Gavilanes, Acoclames, Nonoxes and their allies. Notes that Oca y Sarmiento's personal defense of carros de comercio carrying silver against ambush by more than 300 Indians at Mezquital resulted in great victory for Spaniards. (T. Sheridan) (1979)

Summary controversy whether silver balls from mines or treasure. Since no comparable veins found, fiscals conclude balls probably treasure. Lengthy presentation Spanish mining law, arguing silver probably belonged to king. Treasure to be guarded from Spaniards, Indians alike. (T. Sheridan) (1976)

(M. Bowman) (1979)