Jenny's View

A Season of Gratitude

Dear Friends, 

Not only is La Fonda a treasure of architecture, art and heritage, it is a 101-year-old time capsule that protects the dynamic story of Santa Fe’s history – the oldest capital city in the United States. As historic hoteliers, part of our responsibility is honoring our past to ensure a prosperous tomorrow – that’s why, five years ago, we established the role of an official Hotel Historian. Tasked with safeguarding the unique stories that make us one of the most sought-after destinations in the state, La Fonda’s Historian is someone who exemplifies equal parts passion for the past and the future. 

After serving as our first dedicated in-house Hotel Historian, I’m thrilled to announce that Ed Pulsifer (also our talented Director of Sales) was named the 2023 Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide Historian of the Year. Competing against fourteen deserving finalists from across the globe, Ed was recognized for his commitment to sharing La Fonda’s dynamic history with the world.  

Integral in establishing our popular art & history tours, Ed’s vision for the initiative resulted in one of the largest volunteer docent programs in the state, complete with an extensive training manual, annual continuing education programming and a variety of professional lectures about anything from the hotel’s vast art collection to exhilarating stories of espionage! Over 2000 tours have taken place so far – all of them free and open to the public.  Learn more about our tours here. 

After 14 consecutive years celebrating the Fred Harvey History Weekend at the New Mexico History Museum and La Fonda, I hope most of you are familiar with our favorite FredHead, Stephen Fried! The famous author of Appetite for America, Stephen is one of the most enthusiastic champions of the entrepreneurial businessman. The latest gathering took place October 27-29 and was a smashing success!  Over 300 tickets to our Fred Harvey Foodie Dinner & Auction were sold, and during the event, over $9,000 dollars was bid for the opportunity to dine with La Fonda Legends and Harvey Girls Extraordinaire, Bernette Jarvis and Beverly Ireland at La Plazuela! 

  

I'm always amazed at the nuggets of information I learn about the famous Harvey Company, the latest efforts at play in the field of southwest historic preservation, and the unrelenting efforts to revive this great history throughout the region. Did you know that the dining establishment Kin at Casteñeda will reopen under new management as Trackside on November 8th at the Castañeda Hotel in Las Vegas, New Mexico? Or that there are significant landscaping improvements underway there? Both endeavors are certainly going to elevate the culinary and guest experience at this iconic Harvey Hotel. 

The Fred Harvey Weekend feels like a family reunion!  I can't wait to welcome an even bigger crowd next year. Each year I leave deeply inspired by the hundreds of folks that have become near and dear friends of La Fonda.

With Thanksgiving around the corner, it's the perfect time to reflect on the people and places in our lives that have created space for understanding and compassion. I love that this holiday celebrates the authentic flavors of tradition and place. The holiday's flavors are unique to each family and gathering, but united as a time for gratitude and respect. Enjoy time with your loved ones.

With deep gratitude, 

Jenny

Jennifer Lea Kimball
Ambassador & Board Chairman Emerita
La Fonda on the Plaza