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Historical Architecture

Visitors to Mesa Verde Park can get a sense of the strong cultural traditions of the region reflected in the 'Modified Pueblo Revival' architecture and the use of indigenous stone and timber as primary building materials in Park structures. The Mesa Verde Administrative District was built in Modified Pueblo Revival style that was designed to enhance and compliment the surrounding landscape. The landscape features of native vegetation, flagstone steps, and stone curbs in turn compliment the buildings. Sandstone was the principal material used and was layered to form walls approximately 18 inches thick, held together with mud mortar and then finished smooth. The ceiling and roof structures are supported by peeled pinon, fir, and juniper beams (vigas) that extend out from the walls. The large woodwork of beams, doors, and lintels bear adz marks for added texture and a rustic character. Interior walls are plaster and some typical interior features are southwestern fireplaces, flagstone or tongue in groove flooring and bancos (built in benches).

Early Hopi architecture was the basis for Modified Pueblo Revival developed by Jesse Nusbaum and his wife Aileen, during Jesse's initial tenure as park superintendent from 1921 to 1931. This style of architecture was derived from the Nusbaums study of the 1886 -1887, Bureau of American Ethnology Report by Cosmos and Victor Mindeleff, which analyzed early Hopi architecture before Anglo influences. It was the Nusbaum's intent that Modified Pueblo Revival would not imitate or detract from the existing cliff dwellings. The architecture was designed to show a later style in Pueblo construction, a style of architecture of the probable descendants of the people who once lived in the Cliff Dwellings. Jesse believed that a compatible blending of new and old would enhance interpretation of the ancient ruins. Jesse and Aileen together developed the plans for the Modified Pueblo Revival structures in the park; Aileen typically did the building design sketches and plans. Modified Pueblo Revival style established an architectural theme that became unique to Mesa Verde National Park. Nusbaum, an archeologist, left his position working under Dr. Edgar L. Hewett at the Museum of New Mexico in Santa Fe to accept the Mesa Verde Superintendent position. He served as Superintendent from 1921 - 1931, again in 1936 - 1939 and 1942 - 1946.

The Mesa Verde Administrative District was designated a National Historic Landmark in May of 1987. A National Historic Landmark demonstrates exceptional value or quality in interpreting and illustrating the heritage of the United States. The Administrative District is a unique historic area that resulted from the Nusbaum's desire to develop an architectural style suited to the cultural environment of the Park. The Modified Pueblo Revival buildings they were the first structures built in a National Park that emphasized a cultural theme. The contributions of the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to the Historic Landmark were also significant, as the CCC built and remodeled many of the buildings in the Administrative District during the CCC era of 1933 to 1942. During the Nusbaums separation from Mesa Verde between 1931 - 1936 Jesse remained involved in planning the construction of additions to the park buildings which he and Aileen had designed. The CCC alterations replicate the workmanship and materials of the original properties. The stone used in the building construction and remodeling was quarried by the CCC enrollees.