A Chatham Hall Alumnae Journey Through Art and Legacy in Santa Fe

This fall, a group of Chatham Hall alumnae, significant others, and friends traveled to Santa Fe, New Mexico, for a four-night celebration of creativity, connection, and the enduring spirit of the Chatham Hall sisterhood. Designed to honor the artistic legacy of Georgia O’Keeffe, Class of 1905, and to highlight the work of fellow alumna Maggie Taylor ’79, the trip offered a meaningful blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and shared memories.

 

The group settled into the historic La Fonda on the Plaza, an ideal home base in the heart of Santa Fe. A warm welcome dinner opened the trip, creating the first of many opportunities for conversation and reconnection. Shared meals throughout the weekend became a cherished part of the experience, offering time to reflect, laugh, and enjoy the company of fellow alumnae.

 

The trip began with a guided walking experience through Santa Fe’s historic downtown. The city’s adobe architecture and vibrant arts district provided a scenic introduction to the region’s creative heritage. A guided morning hike added a moment of outdoor adventure with fresh air, wide landscapes, and a chance for deeper conversations among travelers.

 

A central highlight of the journey was a rich and immersive tribute to Georgia O’Keeffe, Class of 1905. The visit to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum offered a deeper look into her groundbreaking artistic career.

Traveling north to Ghost Ranch and Abiquiú allowed the group to experience the very landscapes that inspired O’Keeffe’s most iconic works. The scenery and the stories shared by expert guides created moments of reflection and awe, connecting alumnae to the legacy of one of Chatham Hall’s most celebrated graduates.

 

The group also had the opportunity to view artwork by Maggie Taylor ’79 at a gallery during their time in Santa Fe. This became a special moment of discovery and pride. One alumna reflected with delight,
“I did not know my classmate Maggie Taylor was such an accomplished artist!”

 

The experience highlighted the ongoing artistic contributions of Chatham Hall alumnae and created a meaningful bridge between generations of creativity.

 

A visit to the Museum of International Folk Art added another dimension to the weekend. With its vibrant displays and diverse cultural artifacts, the museum offered an inspiring look at artistic traditions from around the world and became a favorite stop for many in the group.

 

The Sky Railway sunset ride provided a memorable evening of beauty and camaraderie. The desert landscape glowed with shifting color as the group traveled through the high desert, creating a peaceful and visually stunning experience to share together.

 

The trip concluded with a celebratory farewell dinner at Coyote Café. Over good food and lively conversation, the group reflected on the past several days and the connections formed throughout their time in New Mexico.

 

Throughout the journey, alumnae spoke of how meaningful it felt to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones. The combination of shared meals, artistic experiences, and breathtaking landscapes created a sense of unity and joy that carried through the entire trip.

 

From the world of Georgia O’Keeffe to the contemporary imagination of Maggie Taylor ’79, the Santa Fe alumnae journey celebrated the creativity, legacy, and deep connections that define the Chatham Hall community.