Blackwater Draw Archaeological Site - Clovis/Portales, New Mexico

Blackwater Draw Site
ENMU Station 3
1500 S. Ave K
Portales, NM 88130
www.enmu.edu
On the Llano Estacado where the Blackwater Draw is located, was a historical and archaeological location where paleo-hunters hunted mammoth, buffalo, bison, and other large grass grazers. The Site was a spring-fed drainage that later evolved into a small lake. Grass grew over four feet tall creating a sea of grass for the grazing animals that visited here thousands of years ago. Remains of at least 20 species of animals were found at this site. Clovis people came to hunt the animals and obtain the good tasting water. Temporary camps were located nearby as hunters prepared for the battles ahead. Trees and shrubs grew in the low areas near water holes and springs providing tools, food, and medicine. The Mammoth, horse, camel, saber-toothed cat, and many other species of animals died at the end of Clovis times during a short-term drought of 50-100 years. Later, during Folsom and later times, the lake provided fresh water because it was still fed by springs. In addition to hunting, it was a good place to meet others, share information, and trade goods. The American Bison continued to be the walking food supply for hundreds of people for thousands of years. You can still visit the famous spring-fed water hole at the Site, walk where they walked, and drink the same water they drank. You can see where they hunted and camped near the water and imagine what you would do if you were sent back in time. (from the blackwater draw site brochure)

Blackwater Draw Archaeological Site, Clovis, NM Blackwater Draw Museum, Portales, NM ©2005 Technogypsie.com, click photo for larger view

Blackwater Draw Site preserved mammoth excavation site ©2005 Technogypsie.com, click photo for larger view