Mid-Century Madness Closed (#18247810)

Katie Griggs Pine Trastero Cabinet

This antique cabinet was part of the estate of Katherine Griggs Camuñez, the celebrated founder of the La Posta de Mesilla restaurant. Purchased during the 1996 estate sale following her passing, it holds significant historical value. Katherine Griggs Camuñez, renowned for her vibrant personality and culinary expertise, started La Posta Café in 1939. Over the years, she transformed it into a legendary establishment in New Mexico, known for serving up to 2,000 meals a day. Her civic and philanthropic activities further cemented her status as a local icon. The 1996 estate sale attracted numerous admirers and collectors eager to own a piece of her legacy.

Our client acquired this cabinet and has provided documentation to accompany it. The letter and a newspaper article from March 2000 detail the significance of Katherine Griggs Camuñez and the estate sale, offering a rich historical context for this piece.

This solid pine trastero cabinet features four fixed shelves, each with a height of 9 inches, and two glass-paneled doors. This cabinet is not only a functional storage piece but also a charming display unit that adds a touch of rustic elegance to any room.

Condition: Good condition with signs of use that contribute to its rustic charm. The cabinet shows wear consistent with its age, adding to its authenticity and character.

Dimensions:

• Height: 61 inches
• Width: 36 inches
• Depth: 12.5 inches

Additional Information: Included with the cabinet is a letter from our client documenting its history and provenance, along with a copy of a newspaper article from March 2000 that highlights the significance of Katherine Griggs Camuñez and the 1996 estate sale. This rich historical context enhances the cabinet's appeal and value, making it a prized addition for collectors and enthusiasts of Southwestern antiques.

From the attached March 12 2000 Sun News article:

Katherine Griggs acquired the property in 1939 from her uncle George Griggs “for $1 and love and affection.” 

She started the La Posta Café with just “three or four tables” and savory recipes handed down to her by her mother Josephine. Katherine Griggs Meek Camunez went on to become a legend in her own time, reportedly serving as many as 2000 meals a day in her bistro. She was equally celebrated as a colorful and somewhat eccentric trendsetter, and for her civic and philanthropic activities, which included personal deliveries of red and green enchiladas to friends, the sick and disabled.

…She died in 1993 at the age of 79, and a 1996 estate sale generated a nostalgic feeding frenzy. Her friends and fans waited in line for a chance to view and perhaps by the stained glass ceiling that once illuminated her indoor swimming pool, along with items from her exotic wardrobe and collection of art, furniture, and books.