![](http://jemezvalleyhistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/ab12-399x500.jpg)
![](http://jemezvalleyhistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Copy-of-lizardfront-500x375.jpg)
This structure was built in the 1920s and first served as a dance hall and warehouse. Then the building just south of the Presbyterian Church became a café that changed hands several times; two of its names were the Palace Cafe and the Chili Bowl. It then operated for years as a widely-known destination: The Laughing Lizard, owned and operated by Elsie MacKinnon. It was a much beloved community gathering place; Thursday nights were local nights. When Elsie retired, the village turned out for a wake in the Lizard’s honor. Today the building is occupied by a gift shop.
![20150814_144920](http://jemezvalleyhistory.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/20150814_144920-500x281.jpg)