New findings at Wyoming site reveal Native American adornment practices

The River Bend site near Casper, Wyoming offers vital insights into Native American adornment practices during early European contact.

Wyoming archaeological site uncovers Native American adornment practices from the 1700s

Dr. Spencer Pelton and his research team have revealed significant findings from the River Bend archaeological site in Wyoming. Excavated in the 1970s, this site provides a unique glimpse into the adornment habits of Native Americans around AD 1700-1750, coinciding with early European contact. Although much of the site is believed to be lost, the study uncovered over 5,000 artifacts, highlighting a blend of both pre-contact and post-contact cultural elements, particularly among the Eastern Shoshone Tribe. Items such as shell beads and iron tools were essential, signaling status and societal membership in a time of change.

The River Bend findings emphasize how Native American cultures adapted during a pivotal time. The blend of materials indicates a transition in adornment practices influenced by European contact. The introduction of metal tools appears to have enhanced production capabilities, symbolizing resilience and innovation among these communities. As archaeologists analyze further how adornments reflected identity and status, this research contributes significantly to our understanding of cultural continuity and change.

Highlights

This research opens new avenues for understanding indigenous cultural resilience during moments of significant change.