I have seen sections of this book while researching my family tree. I found it full of wonderful stories and information. It gives you a look into that era and how the town started. A great look at history even if you are not a member of the family.

Indeed the Almada family and the city of Alamos made their marks in the pages of history, one that was both profoundly glorious and hauntingly tragic, and Albert Stagg thoroughly captures the family chronicles and the evolution of the old colonial city in his book the "Almadas and Alamos."
Stagg does a brilliant job of recounting the origins of the Portuguese/Spanish/Mexican Almada clan, and even links his own lineage to the clan of prominent silver barons.
Indeed, like Rachael Almada in her review of the book, I too appreciate being able to read about the background of our family, but even for people not familiar with Los Almadas or Alamos, they will appreciate the relation of Alamos to North America, for it was from 18th century Alamos that the first pobladores(settlers) of Los Angeles came and founded the city.
Moreover, if people enjoy Stagg's book, they may also appreciate the "First Bishop of Sonora" which recounts the seminal career of the first Bishop of Sonora-Sinaloa and the Californias, and "Almada of Alamos," the Diary of Don Bartolome Almada.

Kudos to Albert Stagg!! I always remember this book sitting on my grandmother's shelf as a child, but it wasn't until I was older that I took a serious interest in my family's history. I am so thankful to Mr. Stagg for giving the Almada's this gift. I have bought several copies for family members, which has become a popular Christmas gift. It is always a special thing to know one's roots and heritage and with this book I can read about mine whenever I feel. Thank You!