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In 2015–2016, we feature presenters who will explain the “so what?” of their findings. Accordingly, we encourage audiences to consider not only the past, but also their own place in our human story.
On November 17, 2015, Aaron Wright (Archaeology Southwest) will present “Exploring and Protecting the Great Bend of the Gila.”
From Aaron:
The Gila River’s Great Bend, in southwestern Arizona, has been a cultural crossroads for over 10,000 years. This remote area was an interface between the San Dieguito and Clovis/Folsom Paleoindian traditions, the Amargosa and Cochise traditions, and the Patayan and Hohokam farming traditions. Later, it was a frontier between O’odham and Yuman tribes as well as Spanish, Mexican, and American governments. This deep history is preserved in a wide range of stunning archaeological resources. Rock art of the Western Archaic, Hohokam, Patayan, Yavapai, Western Apache, and Immigrant Anglo cultural traditions line canyon walls. Enigmatic geoglyphs and fortified hilltops dot a landscape traversed by ancient trails and wagon roads.
To commemorate and preserve this important piece of the national portrait, U.S. Representative Raul Grijalva has introduced legislation to establish a Great Bend of the Gila National Monument. Archaeology Southwest has partnered with the National Trust for Historic Preservation and several tribal communities to support this important bill. This talk will overview the cultural and historical significance of the Great Bend and provide a status update on the national monument campaign.
Archaeology Café is an informal forum where adults can learn more about the Southwest’s deep history and speak directly to experts. We have based Archaeology Café on the science pub or science cafe model that developed in Europe and quickly spread to major American cities. At Archaeology Café, we break down the static, jargon-laden dynamic of traditional lectures, and have an expert share some ideas with the group in ways that get discussion going. (Food and drink make things a little livelier, too.)
The program is free, but participants are encouraged to order their own refreshments. Although kids may attend with adult supervision, Archaeology Cafés are best for adults and young adults.
If accommodation is needed due to disability, please contact Linda Pierce by email or phone, (520) 882-6946, ext. 23.
Place: We meet in the Aztec Room of Macayo’s Central, 4001 N. Central Ave., Phoenix, near the Indian School light rail stop.
Time: Presentations begin after 6:00 p.m. It is best to arrive at about 5:30 p.m. in order to get settled, as seating is open and unreserved, but limited. Share tables and make new friends!
Cost: Archaeology Café is free, but guests are encouraged to order their own refreshments from the menu. Enjoy happy hour prices!
The 2015–2016 season is made possible, in part, by Arizona Humanities.
