Zuni has the distinction of being the first of the pueblos seen or
visited by Europeans. Seen from a distance by Fray Marcos de Niza in
1539, it was reported as a rich and extensive city. Nearby were six
other pueblos, and the Spanish immediately associated the Zuni complex
with an old Spanish legend about seven golden cities, the Seven Cities
of Cibola. The expedition of Coronado was formed to explore and conquer
the rich pueblos of New Mexico. His first contact was at Zuni, then
called _Hawikuh_. It was neither golden nor rich.
Although Zuni was an important stopping place on the early trails to
Mexico, it managed to remain least influenced by European ideas. The
Spanish concentrated their efforts in the Rio Grande Valley and Zuni
went its own way most of the time. While there were missionary efforts
from time to time, by the nineteenth century, the stout resistance to
such activity caused it to cease. In recent years, sporadic missionary
activity has been evident, but it has not been notably successful.
The most famous of all New Mexico Indian ceremonial dances is held at
Zuni each year. The Shalako, which occurs in early December, is
authentic and spectacular. The dancers, carrying huge ceremonial figures
on their shoulders, must train and practice constantly during the entire
year.
Zuni is the largest of the pueblos in New Mexico, with a population
numbering more than 5000 persons. The main occupation is agriculture.
The Zunis supplement their income by manufacturing silver inlay jewelry
that shows great creative skill and is beautiful to behold.