Jesse Walter Fewkes
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.