Land without chimneys; or, the byways of Mexico

Name: Land without chimneys; or, the byways of Mexico
Author: Alfred Oscar Coffin

By Alfred Oscar Coffin

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Travel Writing

About This Book

The author records travels across Mexican valleys, plateaus, cities, and small towns, offering close sketches of streets, public buildings, markets, food, and popular pastimes such as bullfights and canal life. He documents material culture and domestic routines, from adobe hovels and maguey-fiber industries to the ubiquity of the zerape and the notable absence of chimneys. Dedicated chapters examine prehistoric ruins, indigenous cosmology, and speculative ideas about lost civilizations, while other sections analyze political economy, social classes, and contrasts between suburbs and historic centers, producing a panoramic, anecdotal portrait of late nineteenth-century Mexican society and landscape.

About the Author

Alfred Oscar Coffin

Alfred Oscar Coffin was an American author and explorer known for his works that delve into the cultural and historical landscapes of North America. His notable book, "Land without Chimneys; or, the Byways of Mexico," reflects his keen observations and experiences in Mexico, offering readers a glimpse into its diverse geography and society. Additionally, in "The Origin of the Mound Builders," Coffin explores the archaeological and anthropological aspects of ancient civilizations in North America, contributing to the understanding of indigenous cultures. Through his writings, Coffin provides valuable insights into the regions he studied, enriching the literary heritage of exploration and cultural history.