If These Walls Could Talk: A Picnic Fundraiser at Historic Tully House in Flora Vista

About the Program

Step back in time at the Historic Tully Property for a unique fundraiser with limited reservations. ($40/museum members; $50/non-members.)

When Fred Tully arrived here from Chicago in late 1876, he staked a claim on a picturesque piece of land along the Animas River in what would become Flora Vista, New Mexico. The home he built there is believed to be the oldest remaining homestead in San Juan County.

Almost 150 years later it survives, beautifully situated, setting the scene for a very special fundraiser for the Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village. "If These Walls Could Talk: A Picnic at Tully House in Flora Vista" on Saturday, June 6, features a presentation on site with lunch under the shade of old cottonwood trees. Guests hear the fascinating story of the home, as well as tales of the triumphs and tragedies of the people who inhabited it.

Guests will learn about the remarkable families that once called the property home, including the Tullys and the Gouldings, later of Monument Valley fame. The fascinating stories of these families include ties to the origins of San Juan County and the State of New Mexico; land surveying and Chicago architecture; the exploits of Billy the Kid; a heart-breaking drowning of a brother and sister in the Animas River; and more. Guests will learn about the construction of the home which was built in several phases. There is no access to the interior, although it can be seen from outside. The house will not remain too much longer due to deteriorating conditions, and is on private property not generally accessible to the public.

About the Presenter

Presenter Patty Tharp is a local historian, writer and genealogist, active with the Southwest Colorado Genealogical Society and San Juan County Historical Society. She is the author of the popular two-volume
set "The Lost Communities of Navajo Dam," and has presented frequently on the subject. Patty has done extensive research on Tully House and the families associated with it, including a trip to Lincoln County. A gifted storyteller, Patty brings the house back to life for the afternoon! Her 2025 program at Tully House sold out.

This year Patty will be joined by Jodi Johnson of Oregon. Jodi is a retired teacher who grew up in Page, Arizona, where she helped run her family's business on Lake Powell. Shaped by strong family roots - her grandfather growing up in Flora Vista and her mother born in Aztec - she carries a deep connection to her family's history and the communities that influenced her life. Today, Jodi is passionate about preserving her family's legacy and sharing the stories that bind generations together.

Event Details

This is a unique opportunity as the museum has exclusive permission for a limited number of guests on site. Guests must bring their own chairs and will enjoy a box lunch from Ancient Grounds Cafe. The cost is $40 per person for Aztec Museum members; $50 for non-members. (Cost includes the box lunch.) All proceeds benefit the Aztec Museum Association, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Be aware ,there are bee hives on site. Port-a-potties will be available. Guests will meet at the Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village, 125 N. Main Avenue at 10:30am and carpool to the rural site in Flora Vista. (On-site parking limited.) Reservations are limited to 45; call (505) 334-9829 for information.