Acoma Pueblo

45 miles west of Albuquerque is the Acoma Pueblo, the oldest continuously inhabited community in north america. It is believed to date back to 1100AD. At 7500 ft, it is a 1.48 miles high atop a mesa. Homes are always passed down through clans and the family through the youngest daughter. A distinctive black and white pottery is produced by the tribe and I'll try to put up some examples of it. the mesa itself is 370 feet above the desert floor reminding one of Mesada.We went there Friday, not knowing how beautiful the Pueblo and it's culture would be. It was a place that I would return to again.
The wind is a strong force there, while hurricane force winds in the winter months. I had on my winter jacket and two scarves while we walked around the village. It is hard to image how old these homes were, and yet they felt just right, like it was the way humans were supposed to live. I have found Amsel Adams photos of Acoma which I will post with my photos. Racheal has some photos to add of our descent down the cliff, using the ancient steps and handholds in the cliff walls.

One thing to note that it was one of my goals to listen, speak quietly, and not interject words when Acomians were talking. I had been researching how to be culturally sensitive and these are qualities that I need to cultivate. Being from New Jersey does not predispose me to any of those characteristics or slow talking. I was also aware of the weak handshake of the west, which at home would earn us a queer look or two. Also, I was informed about the story telling and humor used by Acomians to instruct or correct behavior. information might not be given in a direct manner like I was used to in the East. I did my best, and I was pleased that I am retrainable to a certain point. But , enough...on to the photos.