What Is The Bighorn Medicine Wheel?
Deep in the heart of Wyoming’s Bighorn Mountains, at an elevation of nearly 9,700 feet, lies a remarkable and enigmatic structure known as the Bighorn Medicine Wheel. This ancient site, a circular arrangement of stones radiating outwards from a central cairn, has captivated the imaginations of archaeologists, historians, and spiritual seekers for generations. Its purpose, construction, and meaning remain shrouded in mystery, but its significance as a place of astronomical observation, religious practice, and cultural significance is undeniable.
Physical Description and Construction
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is an impressive feat of engineering, particularly considering the tools and techniques available to the people who built it. The wheel consists of a central cairn, a hub of piled stones, surrounded by a circle of stones approximately 80 feet in diameter. From this central circle, 28 spokes of stone radiate outwards, resembling the spokes of a wagon wheel. In addition to the spokes, there are six other cairns located along the outer circle. The stones used in the construction are predominantly local, with some transported from nearby areas.
The exact construction methods are unknown, but it is believed that the builders carefully planned the site and used a combination of surveying techniques, astronomical knowledge, and physical labor to achieve the precise alignment of the spokes and cairns. The stones themselves vary in size and shape, adding to the rustic charm of the wheel.
Dating and Origins
Determining the exact age of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel has been a challenge for researchers. Radiocarbon dating of organic materials found within the wheel has provided some clues, suggesting that the construction began around 700 years ago, placing it roughly within the period of 1200 to 1700 AD. However, some scholars believe that the site may have been used for ceremonial purposes long before the physical wheel was constructed, potentially dating back even further.
The identity of the people who built the wheel also remains uncertain. The most widely accepted theory links the construction to the ancestors of the Crow and/or Shoshone tribes, who inhabited the region during that time. Other tribes, such as the Cheyenne and Arapaho, may have also used the site for various purposes. However, there is no definitive proof, and the true builders remain a fascinating enigma.
Astronomical Significance
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is its alignment with celestial events. Several researchers have proposed that the wheel was used as an astronomical observatory, allowing the builders to track the movements of the sun, moon, and specific stars.
For example, the spokes of the wheel are aligned with the rising and setting points of the sun during the solstices (the longest and shortest days of the year). Some of the cairns are also aligned with the rising points of specific stars, such as Aldebaran, Rigel, and Sirius, which would have been important for agricultural purposes and religious ceremonies.
These astronomical alignments suggest that the builders possessed a sophisticated understanding of the celestial world and used the wheel to mark important dates and events in the yearly calendar. The precise purpose of these alignments, however, is open to interpretation. Some believe that the wheel was used to predict the changing seasons, while others think it served a more spiritual or religious function.
Ceremonial and Religious Significance
Beyond its astronomical function, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel was undoubtedly a place of spiritual and ceremonial significance. The circular shape of the wheel, a common symbol in many Native American cultures, represents the interconnectedness of all things and the cyclical nature of life.
The central cairn may have served as a focal point for religious rituals, while the spokes and cairns could have been used to mark specific locations for ceremonies or prayer. The alignment of the wheel with celestial events would have added a sense of cosmic order and connection to the rituals performed there.
Native American tribes who have a connection to the site consider it a sacred place. They continue to visit the wheel to conduct ceremonies, pray, and pay respect to their ancestors. The wheel is often viewed as a place where the spiritual and earthly realms meet, and where individuals can connect with the Great Spirit.
Modern Interpretations and Uses
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel continues to attract visitors from around the world. It is a popular destination for hikers, tourists, and spiritual seekers, who come to marvel at its beauty and contemplate its meaning. The site is protected as a National Historic Landmark, and efforts are made to preserve its integrity and prevent damage.
Various interpretations and uses of the wheel have emerged over time. Some people view it as a place of healing and personal transformation, while others see it as a source of inspiration for art, music, and literature. The wheel’s enigmatic nature has also sparked countless debates and discussions among scholars, archaeologists, and enthusiasts.
Preservation and Respect
The preservation of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is of paramount importance. The site is vulnerable to erosion, vandalism, and the impact of tourism. To ensure its long-term survival, several measures are in place:
- Protection: The site is under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Forest Service and the Bighorn National Forest, who monitor the area and enforce regulations to protect the wheel.
- Education: Visitors are educated about the history and significance of the wheel and are encouraged to treat the site with respect.
- Cultural Sensitivity: The U.S. Forest Service works with Native American tribes to ensure that the site is managed in a way that respects their cultural and spiritual values.
- Limited Access: Due to its remote location and sensitive nature, access to the wheel is often restricted during certain times of the year, especially during winter when the area is covered in snow.
Conclusion
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a remarkable monument that stands as a testament to the ingenuity, knowledge, and spiritual beliefs of the people who created it. Its astronomical alignments, circular design, and remote location have captivated the imaginations of countless individuals for centuries. While the precise purpose of the wheel may never be fully known, its enduring presence serves as a reminder of the deep connection between humanity, the cosmos, and the land. It is a place to contemplate the mysteries of the past, appreciate the beauty of the natural world, and reflect on the enduring power of human spirituality. As we continue to learn more about the Bighorn Medicine Wheel, we gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of North America and the wisdom of its indigenous peoples. It is a place that deserves our respect, preservation, and careful consideration for generations to come.
