ID - The Jose Montano Store
The Montaño Store is clearly one of the oldest buildings on Lincoln’s Main Street. Although the structure and the area it occupies are clearly well maintained, Lee can see that the adobe walls and tin roof have endured their share of unflinching sunlight and brutal winters. The dim illumination of lanterns is visible in the window beside the front door, which has been painted a bright blue. As Lee draws close, he can hear the sound of voices conversing inside.
Glancing over his shoulder, to the west, Lee can see that the sprinkling rainfall has become a light gray mist, which has settled over the valley, concealing the nearby mountains behind a curtain of fog. The air is pleasantly cool, the scent of pine and moisture strong in the gentle breeze.
A small bell rings as Lee pushes the door open. Inside, the walls are lined with handmade shelves that have been stained dark. They are laden with a variety of goods, many in boxes and jars. Tables in the large room’s center hold tools, blankets, and a number of different items fashioned from leather. A open doorway appears to lead into a room where clothes and linens are displayed. The rich scent of spices greets the Ranger as he enters.
Two women are seated across from one another at a desk, which is positioned at the far end of the room. One of the women has long, braided black hair, and is sorting through a basket of herbs which is sitting atop the desk. The other woman, dressed in a simple, dark colored calico dress, stands as Lee steps inside. Her gray hair is swept away from her face, and she regards the lawman with dark eyes that are questioning and cautious.
”Good afternoon, sir,” she says, ”How can I help you?”