A Place of Thin Veil: Life and Death in Gallup, NM

by Bob Rosebrough

Gallup, New Mexico, is a place like no other. It is disproportionally and simultaneously wonderful and terrible. It is a place of constant struggle, where the forces of good and evil collide. The former frontier mining town, bordering the Navajo Nation at the far western edge of New Mexico, is one of those few places on earth that have the power to change the course of our lives and transform us deeply.

With its rugged, violent history and otherworldly landscape, Gallup has ignited the imaginations of famous Americans from John Wayne to Bob Dylan. Tony Hillerman’s novels put Navajo culture and Gallup on the map. For the Navajo people for whom the region has been home for millennia, the town and its alcohol-fueled economy has a more sinister pull.

As an outsider who became an insider, Bob Rosebrough shares the historical realities of this enigmatic town, and gives readers a rare and true insight into Gallup’s iconic stories and long-hidden secrets.

This book isn’t just for Gallupians. It is a memoir about regular people going up against Goliath issues, and it’s for anyone interested in spiritual conflict; Navajo people, history, and culture; political maneuvering; true crime; alcohol abuse awareness; taking on city hall; working with city hall; and rooting for the underdogs in a dog-eat-dog world. And it is the long overdue story of the death of a Navajo warrior named Larry Wayne Casuse.

360 pages, Paperback

Published February 28, 2022

Reviews

[David Crow · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a must read, page turning history and personal account of a great man. It begins with his journey to Gallup, New Mexico, as a young, idealistic lawyer who came to make his mark and a difference, and he did so in spectacular fashion. It is also a poignant and moving account of the suffering of the Navajo people, the men and women who built Gallup during difficult and violent times, and his journey as lawyer, father, husband, mayor, outdoorsman, activist, and citizen. This is history at its finest in a place most Americans know little about, but should. This is highly educational, insightful, and fun read. One of my all-time favorite books.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is autobiographical reflection on historical events and issues in Gallup NM. Rosebrough gives humble reflection on his own limitations and unusually transparent revelations about the abusive leaders who have controlled Gallup. Rosebrough searches for the truth and meaning behind the violent death of a young Navajo protester, and describes the racism, generational poverty, and rampant alcoholism that define a community surrounded by extravagant natural beauty. Is the demon “Thwart” responsible for nullifying his own attempts to make a difference during his four years as Mayor? Will small victories add up to a more just and prosperous future for powerless minorities?

[Cooper Denny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting as a native New Mexican. There is some history that encompasses all of New Mexico and lots of tidbits about famous people all the way from Bob Dylan to Jimmy Carter. The inner workings of small and somewhat corrupt local government was as much fascinating as it was infuriating. I also learned a decent amount about the Navajo nation and how they interact with local government. I now want to check out the hot air balloons and hiking trails around Gallup.

[Lauren Hertzog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this book! Brought to light so many things from this small town. Highly recommend if you’re interested in a first hand, factual overview of Gallup.

[Steve Maus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book! Lots of local history, background of the town and people.