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Unique in the southwest are the native-american ruins. The dry air and rocky terrain have combined to preserve (fairly) ancient traditions. As you drive along, you see signs for ruins here and there, but never see 'the big picture'. The next few pages can hopefully give you a nice introduction and spark your curiousity!
Found some potshards on the ground? WOW! An ancient lady left you something. Well, almost! Please leave what you find, for others enjoyment. Trust them!
BEST MAP! AAA Indian Country Guide Map. Essentually covers the Colorado Plateau and 'all' the roads! Tony Hillerman (mystery writer) loved it.
GOOD BOOK! Our favorite is 'Anasazi Ruins of the Southwest in Color' by William Ferguson / Arthur Rohn (1999). It has everything from southern Utah/Col. to mid-Arizona/NM. Easy reading and beautiful pictures!
Copyright ©, 2008, dmbarnhart
Suggested tours are always helpful. Included here, are most of the publicly viewable ruins, creating a drivable circle taking maybe 3-4 days or so. We've also highlighted which can easily be viewed by seniors, where camping is available, and when hiking is a definite. Have fun!
Looks like miscellaneous villages here and there? Here's the likely stages of development, plus the mysterious dis- appearance!
We like Dr Harold Colton. He and his lovely wife started the Northern Arizona Museum. We've included the basics to his pottery guide here. Surprisingly, it hasn't changed that much, and it's FUN to apply. Homolovi (right) is the absolute best place.
Ever wonder about piki or mescal? Mmm, Mmmm!! Get those fires lit! They didn't have grocery stores or refrigerators, so what did they do? You look at the hot dusty ruins, and just wonder. Well, they had their methods!
If you're 'normal', when you visit a museum about early native-americans, you kind of just walk around, read a few descriptions, and then check out the gift shop! What's it all mean?? Here's a quick guide to southwestern artifacts, so you'll be an expert. Well, almost!
