In 1920, celebrated American painter Randall Davey purchased a property at the end of Upper vCanyon Road that he converted to a residence and art studio, preserving much of its architectural integrity. The property was the site of the first sawmill in the Territory of New Mexico, built in 1847 to provide lumber for nearby Fort Marcy. The present house stands on the solid stone walls of the former sawmill, now covered in plaster. A flat-roofed second story was added to the structure using traditional adobe bricks. A walled courtyard connects the house to Davey’s intact art studio to the north. During Randall Davey’s time, the home was a center for social activity, hosting the artist’s family and many friends. The hillside property is surrounded by green lawns, mature trees, flower gardens, and magnificent views across the canyon. Donated to the National Audubon Society after Davey’s death in 1964, the home is now the centerpiece of the Randall Davey Audubon Center and Sanctuary including new offices, a classroom building, and a visitor center.

From Old Santa Fe Today, 5th edition by Audra Bellmore with photographs by Simone Frances.