Chimney Rock
Year Listed: 2008
County: Archuleta County
Status: ALERT
Context: Multicultural
Date Constructed: c. 1076-1125
Significance:
In southwestern Colorado stands the “Ultimate Outlier”, one of the most remarkable examples of the Chacoan culture’s organizational structure. Chaco Canyon served as the ceremonial center for more than 200 independent communities linked by economic, political and religious ideals, the furthest of which was the Chimney Rock site. At an elevation of 7,600ft this extremely remote site – l,000 feet above arable land and water – stands as a testament to the design, planning and craftsmanship of the Ancient Puebloans. Abandoned since 1125 A.D., the site retains the authenticity and integrity immediately recognizable as an Ancestral Puebloan site.
Threat When Listed:
Hundreds of years of exposure to the elements are taking their toll on the irreplaceable structures at Chimney Rock. Most of the serious structural problems at the Great House, Great Kiva and the Ravine Site Habitation Complex are due to natural weathering and climate changes. Unusually heavy monsoon rains in 2006 saturated soils, causing several walls to collapse, and while emergency stabilization has been completed, an overwhelming amount of work remains to be accomplished.
Since Listing:
Last Update:
February 2008