Elias & Tona Maes

LEADERS OF THE GRAND MARCH

Honored August, 1988

Elias & Antonia 'Tona' P. Maes

One of Santa Fe's most beloved couples, Tona and Elias Maes lived a traditional way of life that has just about faded from the streets and the plaza into memory. Raising thirteen children—ten girls and three boys—in a small, century-old adobe house inherited from Elias's grandmother, they lived a life close to their Agua Fria community and their church, Our Lady of Guadalupe. Elias was also a prominent member of La Union Protectiva, a burial society. The couple lent spirit to weddings and fiestas around town. Skilful dancers, they were often called on to lead grand marches at wedding celebrations.