The Impact of the Frontier On a Jewish Family: The Bibos
by Floyd S. Fierman

Originally published in print by the Southwest Jewish Archives, Fall 1988.
APPENDIX VI

CORRESPONDENCE OF SIMON BIBO WITH WILLI SPIEGELBERG

[On July, 1896, Simon Bibo wrote to his friend, Willi Spiegelberg in New York City, describing a condition at Cebolleta, New Mexico.]

SOLOMON BIBO, Proprietor     Simon Bibo, General Manager

THE BIBO MERCANTILE CO.

Dealers in

Groceries, California Products, Provisions and General Merchandise Wool, Hides, and Pueblo Indian Specialties

Special Rates for Carload      Lots Wholesale and Retail

Laguna, N. M.      July 31, 1896.

MR. WILLI SPIEGELBERG
New York

Dear Sir:

At a meeting held at Ceboyeta a few days ago, the encl. Protest was drawn up. It certainly don't amount to nothing before the count (?), but as it was drawn up by the Catholic priest Juillard [it shows in that same] item!! un rico Israelito!! [a rich Jew] that he wants to inspire the people with hatred not alone against you but against the Jewish race. I have sent this paper to Don Anudo* who will present the case to the Archbishop and as you have always helped the Catholic church at Santa F6 you should write to the Archbishop a few lines in regard to this protest. The parties, who signed the protest are only tools of the padre. I hope that you are doing well and that your daughters have grown up to be nice ladies and that they will make life a comfort to you and your estimable wife. We have been well. I have five boys and four girls.... I wish to know your opinion of New York State and also about the general outcome of the election. I am somewhat interested as we have a hundred thousand pounds of wool on hand.... Your old friend

SIMON Bibo

*This is probably "Don Amado" Chavez, important territorial office holder who lived part of his early life near San Mateo and CebolIeta. In 1896, Amado Chavez was in Santa Fé; later he became Superintendent of Public Instruction.

Next Appendix VII