The Chimney Rock Interpretive Association (CRIA) is pleased to present a free public lecture, “The Native Americans of the Chimney Rock Area” — an enlightening talk by renowned historian and author Dr. Andrew Gulliford on Tuesday, June 23.
The lecture will take place in the Community United Methodist Church’s fellowship hall, located at 434 Lewis St. The doors will open at 5:45 p.m. The lecture will begin at 6 p.m.
This presentation explores the prehistoric and historic Native American peoples who have shaped the Chimney Rock and Four Corners region over thousands of years.
Gulliford will trace the origins, migrations, interactions and enduring cultural connections of Indigenous peoples, whose stories remain deeply woven into the landscape today.
Attendees will learn about a wide range of cultures, including Paleo and Archaic peoples, the Ancestral Puebloans, and the Fremont, Mogollon and Hohokam traditions.
The lecture will also examine later historic tribes, such as the Ute, Navajo, Jicarilla Apache and others, to provide insight into their territories, timelines and relationships throughout the Southwest.
Special attention will be given to the lasting cultural connections that remain visible on the land today.
Gulliford will discuss evidence such as culturally modified trees and explore ties between the Chimney Rock area and living Indigenous communities, including Taos Pueblo. Through these examples, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural heritage that continues to influence and define the region.
This engaging presentation offers a unique opportunity to better understand the people, traditions and histories that have shaped the Chimney Rock landscape for generations and continue to contribute to its significance today.
This event is free and open to the public.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about the fascinating history etched into the stone landscapes of the Southwest.
The lecture will be offered both in person and via Zoom. Community members who wish to attend virtually may do so using the following Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5210476574?omn=88415838773.
The lecture is free to attend. Donations are accepted in lieu of an admission fee. Canned goods or monetary donations for the church’s food pantry are greatly appreciated.
CRIA’s free Lecture Series offers the opportunity each year for the public and CRIA volunteers to enjoy a speaker whose topic typically relates to southwest archaeology, archaeoastronomy and/or Chacoan culture.
CRIA and the San Juan National Forest of the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, are working in partnership to preserve and develop educational opportunities about the significant archaeological, cultural, geological and biological resources at Chimney Rock National Monument.
CRIA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit volunteer association and receives no funding from the U.S. government.
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