Who Built the Bighorn Medicine Wheel? A Mystery of the Bighorn Mountains
Nestled high in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming, at an elevation of approximately 9,642 feet (2,940 meters), sits the Bighorn Medicine Wheel. This remarkable structure, a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of its creators, has captivated the imaginations of historians, archaeologists, and Indigenous peoples for generations. Built with careful precision, the wheel consists of a central stone cairn surrounded by a circle of stones, with radiating lines extending outward. The wheel’s alignment with celestial bodies, particularly the rising and setting points of the sun and certain stars, has led to speculation about its purpose. However, the identity of the people who constructed this extraordinary monument remains shrouded in mystery, a question that continues to fascinate researchers and fuel ongoing investigations.
The Physical Structure of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a sophisticated structure, meticulously crafted using a variety of stone materials. The wheel is approximately 80 feet (24 meters) in diameter, featuring a central stone cairn, a circle of stones, and 28 spokes radiating outward from the center. These spokes are of varying lengths, adding to the wheel’s unique character. Additionally, six prominent cairns are located along the outer circle, strategically placed to align with specific celestial events.
The construction materials used in the wheel are primarily local stones, likely gathered from the immediate area. The stones vary in size, from small pebbles to substantial boulders, each carefully chosen and placed by the builders. The central cairn, the heart of the structure, is composed of a pile of rocks that likely served as an observation point or ceremonial center.
The alignment of the wheel is perhaps its most striking feature. The spokes and cairns are aligned with the rising and setting points of the sun during the solstices and equinoxes. They are also believed to align with the rising and setting points of certain stars, such as Aldebaran, Rigel, and Sirius. These astronomical alignments strongly suggest that the wheel was used for observing and tracking celestial events, highlighting the builders’ sophisticated understanding of astronomy.
Dating the Bighorn Medicine Wheel
Determining the age of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a challenge, but archaeological evidence and radiocarbon dating have provided insights into its construction timeline. The earliest radiocarbon dating efforts, conducted on organic materials found within the structure, suggest that the wheel may have been constructed as early as 1200 to 1500 AD. However, more recent dating techniques have provided more specific insights.
Archaeological excavations have revealed artifacts and materials that shed light on the age of the wheel. The discovery of pottery shards and other objects dating back to the late prehistoric period suggests that the area was occupied by Indigenous peoples during the wheel’s construction. Furthermore, the presence of trade goods, such as obsidian from distant sources, indicates that the builders had established trade networks and were connected to wider cultural regions.
Ongoing research continues to refine the estimated age of the wheel. By analyzing the position of the stones, comparing the wheel’s alignments with historical astronomical data, and employing advanced dating techniques, researchers hope to narrow the construction timeline and gain a deeper understanding of the wheel’s origins.
Possible Builders of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel
The mystery of who built the Bighorn Medicine Wheel has fueled debate and speculation among scholars, historians, and Indigenous communities. While a definitive answer remains elusive, several groups have been proposed as potential builders.
The Crow Tribe: The Crow people, whose traditional territory encompassed the Bighorn Mountains, have a strong connection to the wheel. Oral traditions and historical accounts suggest that the Crow tribe used the wheel for ceremonies and astronomical observations. The Crow people’s intimate knowledge of the local environment and their cultural practices align with the wheel’s construction.
The Shoshone Tribe: The Shoshone, another Indigenous group with historical ties to the region, also have a connection to the Bighorn Medicine Wheel. Archaeological evidence and oral histories suggest that the Shoshone may have used the wheel for spiritual practices and astronomical purposes.
Other Indigenous Groups: Other groups, such as the Cheyenne, Arapaho, and Lakota, have historical connections to the area and may have been involved in the wheel’s construction or use. These groups shared cultural and spiritual traditions, including a deep understanding of the cosmos.
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Research
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel continues to be a subject of extensive research and investigation. Despite the advancements in archaeological techniques and historical analysis, many questions remain unanswered.
Purpose of the Wheel: The exact purpose of the wheel is still debated. While its astronomical alignments suggest that it was used for tracking celestial events, the wheel may have also served other purposes, such as a ceremonial site, a place for spiritual practices, or a gathering place.
Construction Techniques: How the builders transported and placed the heavy stones used in the wheel’s construction is another intriguing question. The builders’ techniques are a testament to their engineering skills and resourcefulness.
Cultural Significance: The wheel’s cultural significance to the Indigenous groups who may have built it is an area of ongoing research. Understanding the cultural context of the wheel is essential for interpreting its purpose and meaning.
Preservation and Respect
As the Bighorn Medicine Wheel is a site of cultural significance, efforts are underway to preserve and protect the site. The wheel is recognized as a National Historic Landmark, and access to the site is managed to minimize human impact. It is crucial to treat the site with respect and honor the cultural heritage of the Indigenous communities associated with the wheel.
Conclusion
The Bighorn Medicine Wheel remains a captivating enigma, an enduring testament to the ingenuity and spiritual beliefs of its creators. While the identity of the builders remains a mystery, the wheel’s astronomical alignments, construction techniques, and cultural significance continue to inspire research and reflection. Through ongoing archaeological investigations, historical analysis, and respect for Indigenous perspectives, we can strive to uncover the secrets of the Bighorn Medicine Wheel and appreciate its remarkable legacy. The Bighorn Medicine Wheel reminds us of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and honoring the wisdom of the past. As we continue to unravel its mysteries, we gain a deeper appreciation for the connection between humanity, the cosmos, and the enduring power of the human spirit.
