Durango's Archeological Legacy
Dr. Earl H. Morris was one of the most highly recognized archeologists in the Southwest. From Durango to Aztec and throughout the four corners, he excavated hundreds of archeological sites. His work helped lay the foundation for much of what is known about the Anasazi peoples.
Many prehistoric sites in the Durango area date to the Basketmaker I & II periods between 1 and 750 A.D. The transition from Archaic to the Basketmaker tradition is characterized by a dependence on agriculture supplemented by wild plants and animal resources.
The Ute Indians have a long and rich history in Colorado. We do not know when they arrived but we do know they played an important role in the history of the area. They were the "NUCHE" meaning "The People" and followed the archaic hunting and gathering tradition. Archeological evidence and the Ute oral tradition has led some scholars to believe the Utes were here prior to the Anasazi.