Celebrate Arizona Archeology and Heritage Awareness Month

Date: February 10, 2006
Contact: Hallie Larsen, 928-524-6228 x274
Contact: Rita Garcia, 928-524-6228 x273

Petrified Forest National Park Celebrates Arizona Archeology and Heritage Awareness Month in March 2006

Petrified Forest, AZ – In Arizona, the word “archeology” conjures visions of cliff dwellings, intriguing petroglyphs, and sophisticated pottery. However, archeologists also study the remnants of the Spanish Colonial period, forts, ghosts of homesteads and boom towns, and the old alignment of Route 66. Arizona’s archeology spans over 10,000 years of human experience, well represented at Petrified Forest National Park. Clues to the park’s past range from Folsom points knapped from petrified wood to our National Historic Landmark, the Painted Desert Inn.

Arizona Archeology and Heritage Awareness Month celebrates the state’s rich history, but also reminds us of the fragile nature of archeological clues. Thousands of artifacts are removed illegally and thoughtlessly from protected public lands. With each piece, part of our shared legacy disappears. During March, learn about Arizona’s amazing past and discover your part in protecting Arizona’s, and the nation’s, irreplaceable heritage.

At Petrified Forest National Park, rangers will present a variety of interpretive programs about the park and Arizona’s archeology. Daily, there is a 1 pm tour of Puerco Pueblo. Check the visitor centers for more programs! There will be a special display at the Painted Desert Visitor Center. Come celebrate Arizona Archeology and Heritage Awareness Month as part of Petrified Forest National Park's 100th Anniversary.

For more information call [phone] weekdays, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Mountain Standard Time; or write to the Superintendent, Petrified Forest National Park, P.O. Box 2217, Petrified Forest, AZ 86028; or e-mail the park Superintendent at e-mail us.