Call for Contributions

Ben Lujan Oral History Project

Join Us in Preserving the Legacy of Ben Lujan (c.1890 - 1975).

The Lunder Research Center is embarking on an ambitious journey to capture and preserve the living history of Ben Lujan, a pivotal figure in the art and cultural tapestry of Taos, New Mexico. We are reaching out to the community, to you, to help us bring the narrative of this remarkable individual to life through our oral history project.

Ben Lujan's image, immortalized in countless paintings, railroad calendars, and advertisements of the early 20th century, tells a story much richer than what meets the eye. Beyond his role as an artist’s model, he was a man of depth, a member of the Taos Pueblo community, and a witness to the evolving cultural landscapes of his time. His life and stories are threads woven into the fabric of not just Taos Pueblo's history, but America's artistic heritage.

We are seeking audio or video recordings, written stories, photographs, and any mementos related to Ben Lujan that you or your family would be willing to share. Whether its anecdotes passed down through generations, personal interactions, or pieces of knowledge about his life and contributions, every piece adds a valuable dimension to our collective understanding.

How You Can Participate:

Share Your Stories: If you or someone you know has memories or stories about Ben Lujan, please get in touch with us. We are interested in all forms of recollections, from the significant to the everyday moments.

Provide Historical Materials: We welcome any photographs, letters, artifacts, documents, or facsimiles thereof that can provide insights into Ben Lujan's life and the era he lived in.

Spread the Word: Help us reach a wider audience by sharing this call for contributions with your family, friends, and community members who may have stories to tell.

Your participation is not just a contribution; it's a crucial step in honoring the legacy of Ben Lujan and ensuring that his story is told with the richness and respect it deserves. Each submission will be carefully archived and, with your permission, selected contributions may be featured in our upcoming digital exhibitions, which are part of a broader project of an on-site exhibition dedicated to exploring the cultural impact and historical significance of Ben Lujan’s life.

To contribute or for more information, please contact us using this link. Here we can provide details on how to submit your stories and materials, as well as learn more about the project and its significance.

We are committed to creating a respectful and collaborative space where the history of Ben Lujan is shared and celebrated. Your voice, your stories, and your memories are key to this endeavor. Help us to preserve and honor the rich narrative of Ben Lujan and the indelible mark he left on the cultural history of Taos and beyond.

The Lunder Research Center