(MEXICAN MANUSCRIPTS) A description of the welcome given by

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(MEXICAN MANUSCRIPTS.) A description of the welcome given by Mixtecs in Oaxaca to the first Dominican friars. One manuscript page, 12 1/4 x 8 1/4 inches, with docketing on verso; moderate dampstaining, wear at fold, several small holes not substantially affecting legibility. San Juan Achiutla, Oaxaca, circa 1558

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A description of the ceremonial gift from the indigenous leaders of the Mixtec town of San Juan Achiutla to the Dominican friars. Shortly after the conquest of Mexico in 1521, Achiutla became an encomienda held by various Spaniards. The priests who were first appointed to run the church refused to allow any religious orders into the town, probably to avoid any advocacy for indigenous rights. In 1555, the viceroy don Luis de Velasco ordered that the Dominicans be allowed to enter Achiutla. This document describes the entry of the Dominicans into the town, and the Mixtec Indians' donation of the church and other religious paraphernalia to the friars. It narrates the first mass held there by the Dominicans, noting that one of the friars preached in Mixtec to the people there. Includes a numbered list of the lavish gifts the people gave to the new friars. Fray Benito Hernández, a Mixtec-speaking friar, is noted as the first vicar of Achiutla's church. The account is anonymous, but describes the presence of scribe Bernardino López at the event--he may well be the author. A complete transcript and translation are available.