Archeology

Illustration of lithics found at Black Canyon

NPS Midwest Archeological Center

Archeological surveys have provided a better idea of human use around Black Canyon and the surrounding Uncompahgre Valley. These known sites suggest human use for the last 13,000 years.

Most archeological work at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park took place since 1995. Archeologists conducted surveys during this time to compile an archeological base map and evaluate sites to minimize impact with future construction. According to the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), as amended, (P.L. 89-665) federal agencies must preserve historic and archeological objects and materials that would otherwise be lost or destroyed as the result of projects, licensed activities, or programs. Section 110 of NHPA also requires the Interior, Agricultural and Defense secretaries to inventory all lands under their management. This law drives most surveys in the park, since there are few development projects.

Only a small percentage of the park has been surveyed, likely due to challenging topography. Most archeological information at Black Canyon comes from surface artifacts such as lithics (stone points and tools). Campsites were also discovered, with more than half found on the north rim of Black Canyon. Camps along the canyon rim are assumed to be temporary (spring through fall) due to harsh winters. Edible plants (grass seeds, acorns and pinyon nuts) and game (deer, rabbits, elk, and bighorn sheep) would have the main food sources.

Minimal to no evidence of use has been discovered within the canyon or at the river. The Gunnison River flows are controlled today, while historic floods of the past may have swept any artifacts away. Although camps were found exclusively on the rims and uplands, people likely used Red Rock Canyon to reach the river and cross.

 

Prohibited Activities

If you find any kind of evidence of earlier people, such as pottery pieces, arrowheads, or other historic items, look but do not touch. Note the location, take a photo, and contact a park ranger at the visitor center or by email.

Under the Code of Federal Regulations, no person may excavate, remove, damage, or otherwise alter or deface, or attempt to excavate, remove, damage, or otherwise alter or deface any archaeological resource located on public lands or indigenous lands unless such activity is pursuant to a permit issued the law's specific determinations. These regulations are to protect the common history of our nation.

 

Resources

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument Administrative History, 1965

Archeological Survey of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Monument and Archeological Inventory and Evaluation of Curecanti National Recreation Area, 1980

Mark R. Guthrie and others, Colorado Mountain Prehistoric Context, Colorado Historical Society, Denver, 1984