Salmon Ruins•New Mexico

00:00     Title
00:10     Heritage Park
03:30     Salmon Ruins
09:00     Fin

When walking down the path to the Salmon Ruins, a long straight foundation wall is the first archaeological structure to be seen. The ruins are hidden behind this wall that is backed by earthen mounds that elevate the structures within. Once a visitor enters the ruins, the ancient pueblo complex is revealed and it truly is a majestic sight to see!

The Salmon Ruins are a small to medium size pueblo complex, when compared to the massive great house pueblos that can be found in Mesa Verde or Chaco Canyon. Similar styles of masonry and chinking techniques are shared by both the Salmon and Chaco structures and there is evidence of Mesa Verde influence as well. As can be gathered, there once was quite an extensive network of communication and trade between the ancient pueblos in this region. 

For those who are new to the world of Native American culture, viewing a small pueblo complex like the Salmon Ruins will make it easier to understand the purpose of the structures. Research to figure out the purpose of the individual rooms, courts and kivas, because logical deduction does not always take existential elements into account. An easy way to gain insight is referring to the Salmon Ruins brochure that is provided with the price of admission. Each of the points of interest are numbered, so information can easily be referenced in the brochure. By touring an ancient native sacred place in person, a visitor can also visualize ancient foot traffic patterns within the pueblo complex and see the trails that lead to nearby ancient agricultural areas. Most of the ancient pueblos actually were agricultural centers and the Salmon Ruins is no exception. 

Visiting the Salmon Ruins certainly is an educational experience that will provide memories to ponder over for a lifetime. After touring more of the ancient heritage sites in this region, the Salmon Ruins experience will provide clues to the overall picture of the great Chaco Culture network. The land of enchantment is captivating like no place else and the Salmon Ruins is a good place to start a native cultural journey!