Author
Jesse Walter Fewkes
1850-1930
Jesse Walter Fewkes (1850-1930) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
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Books by Jesse Walter Fewkes
Archeological Expedition to Arizona in 1895 Seventeenth Annual Report of the Bureau of American Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1895-1896, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1898, pages 519-744
"Archeological Expedition to Arizona in 1895" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work documents an archaeological field expedition to Arizona, focusing on ancient Pueblo ruins, particularly cliff houses, as well as mortuary pottery and other artifacts. Fewkes aims to uncover historical insights related to the prehistoric inhabitants of the region and how their cultures developed over time. At the start of the memoir, Fewkes introduces his expedition, explaining the invitation he received to collect archaeological specimens for the National Museum, setting the stage for a detailed exploration of ruins in Verde Valley and Tusayan. He details his initial preparations, collaborators, and the nature of his findings, emphasizing the challenge of documenting and understanding ancient Pueblo life. The opening portion lays the groundwork for a systematic survey of the region’s archaeological features, illustrating the author’s enthusiasm and the scientific rigor he brings to his observations, as he hopes to link the past inhabitants of Arizona with the traditions of present-day Hopi Indians.
Archeology of the lower Mimbres valley, New Mexico
"Archeology of the Lower Mimbres Valley, New Mexico" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the archaeological findings and cultural significance of the prehistoric inhabitants of the Mimbres Valley, exploring their architectural styles, burial customs, and the artifacts they left behind. It aims to fill in the gaps of knowledge regarding this lesser-studied region and its ancient peoples. At the start of the work, Fewkes introduces the accumulation of evidence of a prehistoric culture in the Lower Mimbres Valley but notes the scarcity of definitive knowledge regarding its customs and architecture. He discusses the challenges of studying this area, emphasizing the loss of important archaeological materials to collectors over the years. Fewkes outlines the historical context of this valley and shares observations from his own archaeological excursion in 1914, during which he collected various artifacts that contribute to understanding the ancient culture, particularly their pottery and burial practices. The opening sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the Mimbres' distinct cultural identity, which, while sharing superficial similarities with other Southwestern cultures, possesses unique characteristics, especially in their architectural remains and symbolic potteries.
Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park : $b Spruce-tree House
"Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park: Spruce-tree House" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the archaeological studies and findings related to Spruce-tree House, one of the significant cliff dwellings located in the Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado. The book likely explores the construction, design, and artifacts of the site, providing valuable insights into the ancient inhabitants of the area and their culture. At the start of the publication, the author discusses the context of his excavation work at Spruce-tree House, which was conducted under the auspices of the Smithsonian Institution’s Bureau of American Ethnology. Fewkes details the geographical and geological features surrounding the ruin and provides a historical background of prior explorations in the region. He outlines the overall structure of Spruce-tree House and introduces its main attributes, such as the number of rooms and kivas, architectural styles, and evidence of previous inhabitants. The opening sets the stage for a detailed exploration of the site’s physical characteristics and archaeological significance, establishing a foundation for the subsequent analysis of artifacts and cultural patterns.
Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park: Cliff Palace
"Antiquities of the Mesa Verde National Park: Cliff Palace" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This detailed work focuses on the archaeological excavation, restoration, and cultural significance of Cliff Palace, a prominent prehistoric cliff dwelling located in Mesa Verde National Park, Colorado. The book provides a comprehensive examination of architectural features, artifacts, and the social structure of the ancient inhabitants who once called Cliff Palace home. The opening of the text introduces the context and purpose of Fewkes’s research, which began in the summer of 1909. The author describes his appointment by the Smithsonian Institution as director of the excavation and repair work at Cliff Palace, emphasizing the importance of restoring the ruins for educational value and public interest. The text explains how Fewkes and his labor force aimed to reveal more about the cliff-dwellers and to contribute to the existing body of knowledge regarding prehistoric cultures in the Southwest. As Fewkes sets the stage for the detailed descriptions and findings to follow, he also expresses the need for further archaeological work, suggesting that deeper investigations might unearth additional cultural insights about the ancient people of Cliff Palace.
Prehistoric villages, castles, and towers of southwestern Colorado
"Prehistoric Villages, Castles, and Towers of Southwestern Colorado" by J. Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the archaeological findings and historical significance of ancient structures in southwestern Colorado, detailing the cultural history of the Cliff-dwellers and Pueblos prior to recorded history. It aims to provide a comprehensive examination of the villages, towers, and castles found in the region, offering insight into their architectural styles and the civilization that constructed them. At the start of the book, Fewkes sets the scene by discussing the contributions of archaeology to the understanding of human cultural development. He highlights the importance of southwestern Colorado, where unique forms of architecture were developed before the arrival of Europeans. Fewkes explains that his purpose is to share observations gathered from fieldwork conducted in 1917 and 1918, focusing on various ruins, such as Surouaro and Goodman Point. He introduces the idea of classifying different types of structures, including villages and cliff-dwellings, and emphasizes the need for further investigation to comprehend the complexities of this ancient culture.
Archeological investigations in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah
"Archeological Investigations in New Mexico, Colorado, and Utah" by J. Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication authored in the early 20th century. This work documents the archeological explorations conducted by Fewkes, particularly focusing on the prehistoric ruins and architecture in the Southwest region of the United States. Featuring an array of plates that illustrate the findings, the book serves as a significant contribution to the understanding of ancient cultures in these areas. In this publication, Fewkes recounts his investigations spanning several months in 1916, detailing the assessment of various ruins and architectural remnants associated with ancient indigenous populations, notably the Hopi and Zuñi clans. He provides descriptions of sites such as the Fire House and the structures in Nashlini Canyon, analyzing their architectural features and possible cultural implications. The text combines field observations with interpretations of traditional legends, seeking to connect architectural styles with the migratory histories of these ancient peoples. Fewkes aims to enrich contemporary understanding of southwestern prehistory, emphasizing the need for further explorations and excavations to uncover more about the area's complex human past.
The feather symbol in ancient Hopi designs
"The Feather Symbol in Ancient Hopi Designs" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scholarly publication written in the early 20th century. This work delves into the significance of the feather symbol within the decoration of ancient Hopi ceramics, exploring how these symbols serve as a visual language that reflects ancient Hopi thought and religious beliefs. The author examines pottery remnants from prehistoric Tusayan, emphasizing how these artistic expressions offer insights into the cultural and ceremonial practices of the Hopi people. In the text, Fewkes provides a detailed analysis of how feathers were represented in various forms and designs across ancient Hopi pottery and other artifacts. He discusses the connection between feather symbols and their religious meanings, illustrating that these decorations were not merely aesthetic but held a deep significance linked to Hopi rituals and mythology. He categorizes various symbolic representations of feathers, highlighting the characteristics of each form and how they evolved from realistic depictions to conventional symbols. Through this examination, the work illustrates the integral role that the feather symbol played in Hopi culture, conveying a blend of artistic expression and spiritual significance that has been transmitted through time.
The Alósaka cult of the Hopi Indians
"The Alósaka Cult of the Hopi Indians" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This book explores the rituals and beliefs surrounding the Alósaka, a significant cultural element among the Hopi Indians, highlighting its historical roots and current practices. The author provides insights into the spiritual and ceremonial role of the Alósaka, which involves various rituals centered on fertility and the interconnection of the Hopi people with nature. In the book, Fewkes chronicles the discovery of two Alósaka idols and investigates their significance within the Hopi culture. He details elaborate ceremonies such as the Flute and New-fire rituals, where individuals known as Aaltû or Horn-men serve as escorts, embodying the spirit of Alósaka. Through field observations and the collection of legends, Fewkes illustrates how these rituals aim to ensure prosperous crops and seasonal rains. The narrative encompasses the origins of the Alósaka cult, suggesting it is a modified form of totemism, influenced by various clans that joined the Hopi in their migration, ultimately showing the deep spiritual connection between the Hopi people and their environment.
The Winter Solstice Altars at Hano Pueblo
"The Winter Solstice Altars at Hano Pueblo" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is an anthropological study written in the late 19th century. This scientific publication explores the unique Winter Solstice ceremonies and altars constructed by the Tewa clans residing at Hano Pueblo in northeastern Arizona, shedding light on their rituals that are distinct yet culturally significant within the broader context of Native American traditions. In this detailed account, Fewkes examines the cultural and historical background of Hano Pueblo, tracing its settlement by Tewa clans from the Rio Grande valley and their retention of Tanoan customs amidst the Hopi influence. The book describes the intricate rituals performed during the midwinter ceremony known as Tûñtai, highlighting the construction and significance of the altars, the various components used in them (such as clay effigies and ceremonial meal patterns), and the community involvement in these sacred practices. By documenting the altars and their relation to the cultural identity of the Hano people, Fewkes provides critical insights into the persistence of Tewa traditions and their interaction with surrounding Native cultures.
The Katcina altars in Hopi worship
"The Katcina altars in Hopi worship" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book provides a detailed examination of the Katcina altars utilized in Hopi religious practices, delving into their significance within the context of ancient and contemporary Hopi worship. It aims to record and analyze the various rites associated with these altars, which represent key elements of Hopi rituals surrounding agriculture and ancestral reverence. In this detailed ethnographic study, Fewkes explores the ceremonial use and symbolic meanings of the Katcina altars found in four Hopi pueblos. He compares the distinct characteristics of each altar, highlighting the symbolism tied to rain, maize, and the interactions with supernatural entities represented by the Katcinas. Through meticulous descriptions and interpretations of the altars’ arrangements and the associated rituals, Fewkes elucidates how these sacred structures serve as focal points for Hopi spiritual practices, intertwining themes of fertility, growth, and the historical lineage of the Hopi people. The work provides valuable insights into the broader cultural and religious framework of the Hopi, leveraging detailed observations from ceremonies and rituals in the kivas.
Tusayan katcinas
"Tusayan Katcinas" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on the ceremonial practices and rituals of the Tusayan Indians, specifically examining the Katcina celebrations and their significance in Hopi culture. This study seeks to categorize and interpret the various Katcinas and their associated dances, providing insights into this rich and complex aspect of indigenous life. The opening of "Tusayan Katcinas" introduces the concept of Katcinas as supernatural beings in the Hopi culture, embodying various deities represented during ceremonial dances. Fewkes provides a framework for understanding the traditions around Katcinas, noting the challenging complexity of the ceremonial calendar which requires extensive observation over time to classify accurately. He emphasizes the importance of these rituals, asserting their integral role in the spiritual and cultural life of the Tusayan people, while hinting at the unique characteristics that differentiate their practices from those of surrounding tribes. Overall, the initial portion sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Tasayan ceremonial life, describing the intertwining of anthropology, religion, and social structure embedded within the Katcina celebrations.
Preliminary report on a visit to the Navaho National Monument, Arizona
"Preliminary Report on a Visit to the Navaho National Monument, Arizona" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This text serves as a preliminary report on Fewkes’ archaeological reconnaissance of the Navaho National Monument, focusing on the significant prehistoric ruins found in the area. The report details not only his observations and findings related to the ancient structures but also examines the cultural context and historical aspects connected to the Hopi clans that once inhabited these sites. The opening of the report includes a letter of transmittal from the Smithsonian Institution, establishing its official nature and scholarly intent. It sets the stage by describing Fewkes’ initial exploration of the Navaho National Monument after working on the Cliff Palace in Mesa Verde. He outlines his methodology for studying the ancient ruins and begins to introduce the various sites he encountered, mentioning the importance of preserving these remnants for scientific study and cultural understanding. The text emphasizes the connection between the ancient ruins and the modern Hopi peoples, hinting at the significance of these archaeological findings for understanding migration patterns and cultural evolution among indigenous groups in the Southwestern United States.
The Tusayan ritual : $b A study on the influence of environment on aboriginal cults
"The Tusayan Ritual: A Study of the Influence of Environment on Aboriginal Cults" by J. Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work explores the connection between the environment, specifically arid climatic conditions, and the ritual practices of the Tusayan, or Hopi, Indians in Arizona. The book aims to demonstrate how their agricultural lifestyle and ritualistic ceremonies are shaped directly by the environmental challenges they face. In this study, Fewkes meticulously analyzes the cultural practices and rituals of the Hopi people, including significant ceremonies such as the Snake Dance and the Lalakonti. He elucidates how these rituals are fundamentally aimed at securing favorable weather conditions, particularly rainfall essential for crop growth, in a harsh desert landscape. The author delves into the symbolism and meanings behind various ritualistic elements, emphasizing how these practices evolved as responses to their environmental needs. By examining the mythology, ceremonial processes, and the significance of the natural elements in the Hopi's cultural narratives, Fewkes intricately ties together the anthropological and environmental aspects that influence the spiritual and daily lives of the Tusayan people.
Catalogo de los Objetos Etnologicos y Arqueologicos Exhibidos por la Expedición Hemenway
"Catalogo de los Objetos Etnologicos y Arqueologicos Exhibidos por la Expedición Hemenway" is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. The book documents the findings of an ethnological and archaeological expedition funded by Mary Hemenway, focusing on the indigenous peoples of New Mexico and Arizona, particularly the Hopi Tribe. It presents a comprehensive collection of artifacts alongside detailed observations on the customs and practices of the Hopi, revealing continuity and change since the days of European contact. The opening of the work introduces the Expedition Hemenway, outlining its goals and accomplishments. It emphasizes the extensive collection gathered over several years, aiming to shed light on the cultural practices of the sedentary Hopi tribes. The prologue highlights the archaeological findings from the Tusayán province, detailing the geographical setting, the lifestyle of the Hopi, and their spiritual beliefs. Through a structured catalog, the text elaborates on an array of artifacts—ceramic pieces, tools, and religious symbols—thereby serving as a vital source of information on the Hopi's historic and contemporary culture.
Types of prehistoric Southwestern architecture
"Types of Prehistoric Southwestern Architecture" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. This book examines the architecture of prehistoric peoples in the Southwestern United States, focusing on the relationship between their agricultural practices, spiritual beliefs, and architectural development. Fewkes explores the morphological characteristics of various architectural types, particularly the pueblos and cliff dwellers, and establishes a connection between agriculture, sun worship, and the construction of durable buildings. In this work, Fewkes provides a detailed analysis of the architectural forms and types utilized by prehistoric Southwestern cultures, such as the pueblos, their construction techniques, and their evolutionary progression. He discusses how these communities adapted their architectural styles to their environmental conditions and sociocultural needs, including the significance of kivas as ceremonial spaces. The author also compares the masonry and building techniques of the Southwestern peoples with those of contemporary and ancient cultures from other regions, emphasizing that the aesthetic and structural qualities of their architecture reflect a sophisticated understanding of their society and spirituality. Through archaeological evidence and historical accounts, Fewkes illustrates the intricate relationship between the architecture of these ancient civilizations and their agricultural and religious practices.
Contribution to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore
"Contribution to Passamaquoddy Folk-Lore" by Jesse Walter Fewkes is a scholarly publication from the late 19th century focusing on the traditions and stories of the Passamaquoddy tribe, one of the Native American groups in New England. This book serves as a historical account that seeks to preserve the folk lore of this indigenous people, emphasizing the importance of accurate record-keeping of their oral traditions, stories, and songs, many of which are at risk of fading away. In this work, Fewkes chronicles his efforts in collecting these oral stories using the phonograph, allowing for a more precise documentation than traditional writing. The book includes a range of narratives, from the creation stories of beings such as Glooscap and Leux to tales involving animals and elements of nature. He illustrates various aspects of Passamaquoddy culture, including rituals, dances, and the language itself. The work not only captures the rich tapestry of their folk-lore but also reflects on the ongoing transformation of the Passamaquoddy people's customs, highlighting the impact of modern influences on their traditional ways of life. Throughout the book, Fewkes expresses a sense of urgency in preserving these stories as invaluable cultural heritage.