Blackwater Draw archaeological site

The site contains a 640-acre area with evidence of human activity around a spring-fed Pleistocene lake, featuring multiple excavation zones and research facilities.

Discovered in 1929 by Ridgley Whiteman, the location became a National Historic Landmark in 1961 and represents the type-site of the Clovis culture in North America.

The excavations revealed thousands of stone tools, projectile points, and preserved animal bones, demonstrating the technological capabilities of early North American inhabitants.

Eastern New Mexico University manages the site, which includes a museum, interpretive center, and one-mile trail system for visitors to explore archaeological discoveries.

Researchers have identified remains of 28 mammoths and numerous extinct species alongside human artifacts, documenting 13,000 years of continuous human presence.

Location: Roosevelt County

GPS coordinates: 34.27778,-103.32444

Latest update: March 5, 2025 21:20