The rural schoolhouse that formerly served this area has long since been abandoned. Yet its old bell still remains standing, a reminder of another era in American history. I was able to photograph it in silhouette, its upright handle echoing the upwards thrust of a nearby tree. Outlined against the golden winter grasses and a clear deep blue sky, I could almost hear it ring. This image offers an appropriate close to our weeklong exploration along the historic back roads winding through a part of the American Southwest.