Fifth Grade
Worksheets
Taos and the Sundown Dance
Sundown Dance of the Taos Indians
Reading Comprehension for September 29
In the state of New Mexico, which lies to the west of Texas and east of Arizona in the United States, there is an ancient pueblo named Taos. Taos Pueblo is the best known Indian village in New Mexico. It is located near the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and is about an hour's drive from Santa Fe, the capital of New Mexico.
Not only is the pueblo named Taos, but the Indians that live there are also known as the Taos. Taos Indians have been in the area for nearly 1,000 years. Little has changed, even with 400 years of Spanish and American influence. The Taos speak their native language of Tiwa as well as Spanish and English. Within the pueblo, the Native Americans do not use electricity or running water. Those living beyond the walls do have more modern facilities. There are more than 1,900 Taos Indians living in and around Taos, New Mexico.
The Taos Pueblo holds many religious ceremonies and dances throughout the year that are open to the public. One of these happens annually on September 29 during the San Geronimo Feast Day. .....
