Subject
Arizona -- Antiquities Books
Best books
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.
Jesse Walter Fewkes
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.
Jesse Walter Fewkes
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.
Cosmos Mindeleff
The Cliff Ruins of Canyon de Chelly, Arizona Sixteenth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1894-95, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1897, pages 73-198
"The Cliff Ruins of Canyon de Chelly, Arizona" by Cosmos Mindeleff is an archaeological and ethnological study written in the late 19th century. This work explores the rich history and structural remains of the ancient pueblo culture, specifically focused on the significant cliff ruins found in Canyon de Chelly. Mindeleff delves into the history of exploration in this remote region, as well as the geographical and architectural factors that influenced the settlement patterns of the ancestral Puebloans. The opening of the text introduces the reader to the setting of Canyon de Chelly, which has been largely undocumented due to its inaccessibility and location in the heart of Navaho territory. Mindeleff recounts early explorations and the conjectures about the canyon's monumental cliff dwellings made by various explorers. He highlights the importance of Lieutenant J. H. Simpson's observations from a military expedition in the mid-19th century, which laid the groundwork for future archaeological understanding of these sites. The author emphasizes the complex interplay between the geography of the canyon and the village sites, indicating a profound connection between the natural landscape and the ancient inhabitants' lifestyles.
Cosmos Mindeleff
The Repair of Casa Grande Ruin, Arizona, in 1891 Fifteenth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1893-94, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1897, pages 315-348
"The Repair of Casa Grande Ruin, Arizona, in 1891" by Cosmos Mindeleff is a scientific publication written during the late 19th century. This detailed report discusses the evaluation and restoration efforts undertaken at the Casa Grande Ruin, a notable archaeological site in Arizona, which holds significant historical and cultural value. Mindeleff provides an in-depth analysis of the ruin's condition, its historical background, and the necessary repairs, reflecting a blend of archaeology and preservation science. The report begins with an introduction outlining the federal appropriation for repairs and the urgent need to protect the ruins from natural deterioration and vandalism. Mindeleff meticulously documents the various aspects of the restoration process, including the structural condition of the Casa Grande, plans for underpinning and bracing the walls, and the excavation of debris. He emphasizes the importance of preserving the site for future study, detailing the measures taken to ensure its structural integrity while maintaining its historical character. The report also includes illustrations, contracts, and findings from the excavation, ultimately highlighting the ongoing need for further preservation efforts to combat the effects of time and environmental wear.
Cosmos Mindeleff
Casa Grande Ruin Thirteenth Annual Report of the Bureau of Ethnology to the Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, 1891-92, Government Printing Office, Washington, 1896, pages 289-318
"Casa Grande Ruin" by Cosmos Mindeleff is a scientific publication written in the late 19th century. This work focuses on the archaeological and architectural significance of the Casa Grande ruin, situated near the Gila River in southern Arizona. Mindeleff provides a detailed examination of this prominent example of aboriginal architecture, contributing to the broader understanding of Native American historical sites. In "Casa Grande Ruin," Mindeleff explores the architectural features, historical context, and previous interpretations surrounding the Casa Grande structure. The book details the physical characteristics of the ruin, including dimensions, construction methods, and the layout of its various rooms. Mindeleff highlights the differences between Casa Grande and northern Pueblo architecture, emphasizing its unique construction techniques and the environmental factors that influenced its design. Additionally, he discusses the historical accounts from early explorers and missionaries, connecting the structure to the Pima people, their traditions, and the long-term occupation of the site. Through meticulous descriptions and illustrations, the author reconstructs the significance of the Casa Grande ruin within the framework of Southwestern archaeology.
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