How Was The Bighorn Medicine Wheel Discovered?
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel, a remarkable and ancient astronomical structure, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual practices of the indigenous peoples of North America. Located in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, this circular arrangement of stones has captivated researchers, historians, and visitors for centuries. But how was this mysterious structure discovered? The answer lies in a combination of early exploration, local knowledge, and the dedication of those who sought to understand its purpose.
Early Exploration and Documentation
The earliest written accounts of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel date back to the late 19th century. Explorers, surveyors, and ranchers traversing the Bighorn Mountains began to take note of this unusual formation. These early observers, often unfamiliar with the significance of Native American cultural sites, documented the wheel’s presence but often lacked the understanding to interpret its purpose.
One of the first recorded observations of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel came from a local rancher named William O. Owen. In 1902, Owen, while surveying the area, noticed the structure and documented its existence. He described the arrangement of stones, noting its circular form and the presence of radiating spokes. His account, though brief, provided an early glimpse into the wheel’s unique characteristics.
Other early explorers and surveyors also contributed to the documentation of the Medicine Wheel. They often included brief descriptions of the site in their reports and maps. These initial observations, though lacking in depth, laid the groundwork for future investigations. They helped establish the location of the wheel and provided a basic understanding of its physical layout.
Native American Knowledge and Oral Traditions
While early explorers and surveyors were the first to document the Medicine Wheel in writing, it’s important to acknowledge the crucial role of Native American knowledge in its discovery. For centuries, the tribes of the Bighorn region, including the Crow, Cheyenne, and Arapaho, had known about and revered the Medicine Wheel. The wheel held deep spiritual and cultural significance for these peoples, serving as a place of ceremony, healing, and astronomical observation.
The oral traditions of these tribes contained knowledge about the wheel’s purpose, its construction, and its relationship to the celestial world. However, this knowledge was often kept secret, passed down through generations within specific cultural and spiritual contexts. The oral traditions provided essential context for understanding the wheel, although they were not often shared with outsiders.
The first non-Native Americans to learn about the Medicine Wheel often did so through interactions with the local tribes. Ranchers, traders, and government officials who established relationships with Native American communities gained insights into the wheel’s significance. These interactions, however, were often limited by cultural barriers and language differences, making it difficult to fully understand the wheel’s meaning.
Archaeological Investigations and Scientific Studies
The formal study of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel began in the early 20th century, as archaeologists and scientists began to recognize the significance of the site. The first systematic investigations of the wheel were conducted by researchers who sought to understand its purpose and its origins. These early investigations focused on mapping the structure, measuring its dimensions, and documenting its physical features.
One of the earliest scientific studies of the wheel was conducted by the astronomer John A. Eddy in the 1970s. Eddy’s research focused on the wheel’s astronomical alignment. He discovered that the wheel’s spokes aligned with the rising and setting points of the sun and certain stars, suggesting that it served as an astronomical calendar. Eddy’s findings were groundbreaking, confirming the wheel’s connection to the celestial world and its role in Native American astronomical practices.
Further archaeological investigations have continued to shed light on the Medicine Wheel’s history and purpose. These studies have involved detailed mapping, radiocarbon dating of artifacts, and analysis of the wheel’s construction materials. Researchers have also conducted ethnographic studies, interviewing members of the local tribes to gain insights into their traditional knowledge and beliefs about the wheel.
These scientific studies have provided valuable information about the Medicine Wheel’s construction, its age, and its astronomical alignments. The investigations have revealed that the wheel was constructed over several centuries, with different components added over time. The wheel’s astronomical alignments are now well-documented, providing evidence of its role as a calendar and observation tool.
The Role of Preservation and Public Awareness
The discovery of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel was not solely a matter of academic research. The site’s preservation and the creation of public awareness played a crucial role in its recognition and appreciation. Efforts to protect the wheel from damage and encroachment began in the mid-20th century. These efforts led to the designation of the Medicine Wheel as a National Historic Landmark in 1970.
The designation of the Medicine Wheel as a protected site has ensured its preservation for future generations. It has also facilitated the development of educational programs and visitor centers, which have increased public awareness of the wheel’s significance.
The creation of visitor centers and interpretive exhibits has allowed people from around the world to learn about the wheel and its cultural context. These programs have helped to promote respect for Native American cultures and to raise awareness of the importance of preserving cultural heritage sites.
Continuing Research and Future Directions
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel continues to be a subject of ongoing research and study. Researchers are still exploring the wheel’s astronomical alignments, its cultural significance, and its relationship to other archaeological sites in the region. New technologies, such as remote sensing and advanced mapping techniques, are being used to gain a deeper understanding of the wheel’s construction and its historical context.
Future research may focus on a number of areas, including:
- Refining astronomical alignments: Researchers will continue to study the wheel’s astronomical alignments to gain a more precise understanding of its role as a calendar and observation tool.
- Investigating cultural context: Researchers will work with Native American communities to learn more about the wheel’s cultural significance and its relationship to traditional beliefs and practices.
- Exploring regional connections: Researchers will study the wheel’s connections to other archaeological sites in the region to understand its place within a broader cultural landscape.
The discovery of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a testament to the value of collaboration between different disciplines, including archaeology, astronomy, history, and Native American studies. It also highlights the importance of respecting and preserving the cultural heritage of indigenous communities. As research continues, the Bighorn Medicine Wheel will undoubtedly reveal more of its secrets, deepening our appreciation for its remarkable history and its enduring significance.
