Attraction Guide: Anasazi State Park Museum, Escalante, United States

Anasazi State Park Museum Guide

Step Back in Time: Explore the Ancient Village at Anasazi State Park Museum Guide

The Anasazi State Park Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi, who inhabited this region of southern Utah centuries ago. The museum is built around the partially excavated ruins of a large Ancestral Puebloan village called Coombs Site, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to walk through the remains of ancient dwellings and learn about the culture and history of these early inhabitants. The Coombs Site was occupied from approximately AD 1175 to AD 1275, a period of significant cultural development and expansion for the Ancestral Puebloans. The village consisted of over 100 rooms, including dwellings, storage areas, and ceremonial structures. Archaeological excavations have revealed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and textiles, providing valuable insights into the daily lives of the people who lived here. The site was abandoned around AD 1275, likely due to a combination of factors, including drought and resource depletion. At the Anasazi State Park Museum, you can explore the partially excavated ruins of the Coombs Site, walk through reconstructed dwellings, and view exhibits showcasing artifacts discovered during archaeological digs. The museum also offers interpretive programs and guided tours, providing a deeper understanding of the Ancestral Puebloan culture and history. You can also hike the short trail around the site for different perspectives. While the museum doesn't have a specific culinary tradition associated with it, it does offer insights into the agricultural practices of the Ancestral Puebloans, who cultivated crops such as corn, beans, and squash.