Curation

The vast majority of the three million artifact and archival collections relate directly to Mesa Verde National Park , from the Ancestral Puebloan occupation (500-1300 AD) through the development of the national park (1906 to present). This is one of the largest collections of Ancestral Puebloan archeological materials in the nation and the world.

Park managers and archeologists continually utilize the artifacts and archives for research during internal projects (e.g. architectural documentation of sites and post-wildland fire damage assessment). Outside scholars and researchers draw on the collections for studies relating not only to archeology, but also to broader topics such as corn genetics and wildlife physiology. The archeological collections also are significant in the history and heritage of 24 southwestern Native American groups, who claim cultural affiliation to the land and resources within Mesa Verde National Park .

Two baskets and black on white jar

These internationally significant archeological, historical, archival, and natural resource collections were in immediate danger of deterioration and loss. Originally constructed in 1956 as a temporary archeological field lab, the Research Center curatorial storage facility was seriously substandard. This structure was not insulated, had no environmental controls, was subject to rodent infestations, and was overcrowded.

Storage facility before upgrades

To help solve some of these problems, park staff applied for and received a Save America’s Treasures grant in 2001. This was augmented by a Colorado State Historical Fund grant, as well as donations from the Bay Foundation, the Tauck Foundation, the Mesa Verde Museum Association, the local community, and special federal funding.

The project involved interior and exterior rehabilitation of the existing structure, thus creating a more stable and healthy environment for the collections and the staff. Installation of compact shelving units helped create more efficient storage space. Artifact storage containers and labels have been upgraded to archival standards, the collections database is being updated, and many other steps continue toward meeting professional standards. However, space for growth and research access is still very limited. Plans for a larger state-of-the art facility are underway as part of the park’s proposed Cultural Center. In the meantime, thanks to the network of funding mentioned above, long-term preservation of these collections has been insured.

Upgraded shelving in storage facility

The collections at Mesa Verde National Park contain intrinsic value to a wide range of potential users including archeologists, anthropologists, historians, architects, and park managers and staff. New studies of the collections will not only be used for interpretive programs for the more than 600,000 annual park visitors through exhibits and interpretive programs, but will also be accessible on the World Wide Web in the near future, reaching additional audiences both nationally and internationally.

Mug, Bowl and Jar