These photographs originally came from my interest in documenting a group of my workmates up here in Portland Oregon in the mid 90's. And since the work was roofing, these workers were a tough bunch. As I worked with them I began photographing them, first mainly at work and later in other aspects of their immigrant lives. As it turned out most of the crew originated in and around a small village in the State of Michoacan, Mexico named Estacion de Querendaro, which used to be where the railroad stop was for the now defunct Hacienda of Querendaro. This dusty little town, off the paved road to Zinepecuaro was far too small to be found on most maps. It, however interested me, as I wanted to see what the place of origin for my companions was like. So in late Winter 1997 I paid a visit. I arrived unannounced and in a matter of minutes I had hooked up with the handful of fellow workers who were wintering at home that year and who were delighted to show off their tranquil home.

Images copywritten by William R Washburn and may not be copied nor used without permission.