Benjamin “Ben” Read built his elegant home in 1883 in the bustling area east of the ATSF and Denver and Rio Grande depots, on what is now Read Street. Read’s home is a fine example of the late Victorian Territorial Style and is associated with significant people and historical events in Santa Fe. Born in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Read pursued his education and rose to prominence in Santa Fe. His father, Benjamin F. Read of Maryland, came to New Mexico with General Kearney’s army in 1846, worked in multiple government positions, and served as sheriff of Doña Ana County. Starting his career as a brakeman and conductor on the ATSF Railway, Read ultimately obtained a law degree and served in the New Mexico House of Representatives from 1893 to 1901 and as Santa Fe City attorney. Eventually he abandoned his law practice to pursue his interest in early New Mexican history, writing and publishing several historical works.
From Old Santa Fe Today, 5th edition by Audra Bellmore with photographs by Simone Frances.