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.