New Exhibit and Opening Reception at the Anasazi Heritage Center

The Anasazi Heritage Center invites the public to celebrate the grand opening of a new exhibit: “Archaeology Grows Up: 1906 - 2006.”  The exhibit celebrates the centennial of the Antiquities Act and reveals the transformation of archaeology from 1906 to the modern computer-assisted study of ancient people.  Spectacular artifacts and historic images make this a must-see.

This exhibit was designed by Anasazi Heritage Center staff with funding and support by the Colorado Historic Fund and the San Juan Mountains Association.  It highlights cutting-edge techniques that were developed in the Southwest and spread throughout the world, thanks to archaeologists who began their careers in southwestern Colorado and who went on to shape the face of modern science.  The exhibit will run from April 15, 2006 through April 1, 2007.

Other upcoming events at the Center include a site stewardship workshop for landowners on May 20th, hosted by the San Juan Mountains Association.  This workshop will help landowners learn how to identify archaeological sites, provide advice on how to deal with them, and offer resources available to those who are interested in preserving their sites. Then, on Thursday, June 8th at 2pm and again at 7pm, Dr. Linda Cordell, Professor of Anthropology and Director of the University of Colorado’s Museum in Boulder, will review the surprising history of Mesa Verde and the Antiquities Act, including early feminist issues. Seating is limited.  Visitors will be seated on a first-come first-serve basis.  Cordell’s lecture is part of the Mesa Verde National Park Centennial Lecture Series. The Anasazi Heritage Center will be hosting other Centennial Lecture Series events throughout the year. Please pick up a copy of the Anasazi Heritage Center's Special Events Calendar for more information or call (970) 882-5600 for specifics.

1906 was a very important year in American History. On June 8th, the Antiquities Act was made into law becoming the first legislation passed to protect and preserve cultural properties in the United States. All year, federal agencies, state agencies, and private organizations will be celebrating the 100 year anniversary of the Antiquities Act with events and exhibits on a local and national scale. In celebration of the centennial, the Bureau of Land Management is taking advantage of this opportunity to host a number of activities (learn more at www.blm.gov/heritage/adventures/menu/events.html).

The Anasazi Heritage Center is operated by the Bureau of Land Management and is the headquarters for Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. All programs are available to visitors on a first-come first-serve basis. Exhibits and special programs are paid for by visitor donations and entry fees through the Recreation Fee Demonstration Program. For more information visit the Center’s website at www.co.blm.gov/ahc, or the Monument’s website at www.co.blm.gov/canm. 

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