CONTRIBUTED
ALAMOSA — Join the Narrow Gauge Book Cooperative in welcoming Michael Espinosa for a reading and signing of his book, “Trail of the Espinosa Outlaws: Reign of Terror 1857-1863,” on Aug. 8 at 6 p.m.
From 1857 to 1863, the Espinosa brothers reportedly rampaged through Texas, New Mexico, and Colorado, and they were accused of as many as 300 murders. This novel, originally derived from the family stories of Humberto Espinoza, was later written down by L. Andres and completed by Michael Espinosa in 2023. Amidst a historical picture of life in 1860s Colorado, the Espinosa outlaws evaded the Ft. Garland-based military and mercenaries until legendary frontiersman Tom Tobin tracked them down, cut off their heads, and took the heads to Fort Garland for bounty.
This novel portrays the Spanish family, their struggle to keep and preserve their land grants, the murder of an eleven-year-old child and Espinosa’s fiancé, as well as the atrocities committed by the land-seeking Americanos after the war with Mexico. The adventure follows Teófilo Espinosa from 1857 to 1863 from Texas through New Mexico and Colorado. The Espinosa saga, often depicted in Western lore, fails to convey the human side of the violence, portraying only a murderous pair of brothers. After 150 years and three generations of Espinosa’s, this novel speaks to the experiences of the Spanish and their motivation for revenge against the Americans, providing a more thorough view of the story than the sensational news stories that focused solely on the violence.
Michael Espinoza is a retired attorney. He was the Director of the Area Agency on Aging in Huerfano and Las Animas counties for six years, and did pro bono work for Colorado Legal Services. His father, L. Andres Espinoza, began the book, based on Humberto’s stories, though he was unable to find a publisher.
Artist Reception Aug. 9
Joni Franks is the August featured artist at Narrow Gauge. Join her Artist Reception on Aug. 9 from 4 to 6 p.m. is a chance to meet the artist, view her work, and enjoy light refreshments.
Franks is an international award-winning author, artist and poet. She has been named the 2024 Will Rogers Medallion Award Illustrator of the Year. Her books have earned bestseller status and have won over fifty art and literary honors, including the prestigious Moms Choice Award, the International Readers Favorite Award, the American Fiction Award, and the CIPA EVVY Award. Most recently, her poem “Beyond,” from her illustrated poetry book Heart Songs, was published in the 2025 Willow Creek Journal, an annual anthology produced by the Creede Arts Council.
Known for her compelling narratives that challenge societal norms, Joni pens books about resilience, inspiration, overcoming adversity, equality, and conservation. Spending time on her San Luis Valley ranch with her Welsh corgis Sagebrush, Gyzmo, and Willow offers her the inspiration to create impactful books and artwork.
Franks is active in the artistic community. In May, she participated in the Grand Masquerade Art Gala, sponsored by the Alamosa Chamber of Commerce. Her piece, The Green Man, sold at auction.