Prehistory in Peril: The Worst and the Best of Durango Archeology

by Florence C. Lister

Prehistory in Peril is the first accurate account of the early period of archaeological study of the Durango area. The area, still rife with unexplored sites, drew many self-trained amateurs and pothunters. As more and more historically significant artifacts were found, bitter confrontation and animosity developed between professionals and enthusiasts.
Prehistory in Peril follows this fascinating drama and reevaluates data from two prominent archaeologists of that time, Earl Morris and Robert Burgh, and takes into account more recent research to draw new conclusions about the prehistoric cultural patterns revealed in the southern Colorado area of Durango.

196 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 1997

About the author

Florence Cline Lister's remarkable career spans more than 50 years. Beginning her work at a time when women were often relegated to the background in the field of archaeology, she gained prominence as an expert in pottery analysis. Florence and her husband, archaeologist Bob Lister, traveled the archaeological world for decades and produced numerous respected studies in the field of archaeology. Since Bob's death in 1990, Florence has continued to write insightful books on the history of Southwestern Archaeology.

Reviews

[Hunter McCleary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Nice overview of the characters who were the first "explorers" of Native American origens in the Durango. She paints them as occasionally sketchy characters but also working in the Wild West days of relic hunting. She also says mid-century professional archaeologists are culpable as well for not recognizing amateurs as valuable resources and mentoring them. Lister is also an excellent writer.

[Lorraine McCleary · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent look at the history of archeology in Durango. Pot hunting and looting Indian ruins was considered their right until the Antiques Act and even after it, people refused to give up artifacts. The Durango Library even had an Indian room of artifacts. Fasinating history.