These postcards, which date from the turn of the 20th century, are early evidence of New Mexico's tourist industry. Tourism in New Mexico was boostered by Frederick Henry Harvey. Born in London, England, Harvey was an entrepreneur in the American Southwest. He created a chain of Harvey House hotels, lunchrooms, dining cars and souvenir shops along the route of the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railway (AT&SF). In 1876, the first Harvey House café opened in Topeka, Kansas. It was overwhelmingly successful, as the House featured prompt service and an attention to quality and detail often lacking in western eateries. Soon, the Harvey Houses spread along the route of the Santa Fe Railway. In addition to the hotels and lunchrooms, Harvey promoted cultural tourism. His company ran “Indian Detours” that showed visitors regional sites. To supply the Harvey House gift shops, the Fred Harvey Company contracted with local artisans, as well as publishing its own line of postcards.
At its peak, 84 Harvey Houses were located across the Southwest. They were built and operated into the 1960s. In 1968, Harvey’s descendents sold the chain to Amfac, Inc.
From the guide to the Historical Postcards Collection, 1903-1908, (The Palace of the Governors, Fray Angélico Chávez History Library)
