Set on the banks of the Rio Grande River in the old New Mexico Territory, Simon ran his infamous resort-brothel which brought him his tainted fortune and perceived power over the people of Taos. It was virtually impossible to stand up to this sadistic tyrant and his ruthless band of thugs. Even the church, who exercised a strong degree of power and influence in those developing years of western expansion, could not influence his depraved course. He was an ambitious man with the amoral attitude of the local rattle snakes that were indigenous to the region. Each of the numerous visitors passing through, who enjoyed the relaxation and pleasure of his sinful stop of gratification, had a story to tell, but Canyon of Sorrow concentrates on the dark and tragic way that one man touched so many, and his devious actions through might and control resulted in a horrific conclusion that is talked about to this day.