#Apache Trail history

[lostyet]

Rediscovering the old Apache Trail

Photo taken circa 1910. Arizona State Library The Apache Trail has re-opened, and one hot September 2024 Sunday, my son and I found ourselves with no obligations we could not avoid. Being too hot to hike (daytime highs never sank below 95 the entirety of September in 2024) (God – I hope that’s a remarkable sentence in the future) my son suggested that I should drive. Because the AC in my 2015…

[autotrails]

American Auto Trail-National Park to Park Highway (St. Johns to Holbrook AZ)

American Auto Trail-National Park to Park Highway (St. Johns to Holbrook AZ) https://youtu.be/W2J0JQQKiqw This American auto trail follows the Little Colorado River past the Petrified Forest National Park, from St. Johns to Holbrook, Arizona.

[cedarboughs]

Hiking Journal

November 11 — Raven’s End

Yamnuska — Îyâmnathka, “flat-faced mountain” in Nakoda — has got to be one of the most iconic mountains in the Rockies. It’s known as a sacred mountain which watches over a rich medicine foraging plain. Heading into the Bow Valley it’s basically the first rock of the Rockies, watching over the wide valley through which the river, railway, new highway, and old road wind in parallel.

It was grey and overcast in that November way on this Remembrance Day, but pleasantly warm for the season, rising to a high of 11° if I remember. The plan had been at some point to do a hike with work friends but they called it in so I drove out on my own, listening to The Apache Relay and a podcast about Herman Hesse’s Siddhartha as I left the city and rolled over the foothills (I’d just finished reading it, was pretty good.) Speaking of books, that’s why Raven’s End, the eastern buttress of Yamnuska’s great cliff, lives rent-free in my head.

See, Ben Gadd is a legend. Most of the times in the last thirty years that anyone has looked up an animal, plant, mushroom, or geological formation in the Rockies, it’s probably been in Gadd’s practically biblical Handbook of the Canadian Rockies. In his full page entry on corvus corax he makes it pretty clear what his favourite clever local bird species is. If there was any further question, he also wrote Raven’s End, sort of the Albertan answer to Watership Down. I don’t know if the novel is named after the buttress or if the book named the buttress. The book was published in 2001, and I haven’t figured out if the name was used to refer to the spot on the mountain before then or if Gadd named it.

Anyway, I read this book a half-dozen times growing up. In the story, a raven wakes up with from a fall into a bush at the base of Yamnuska’s cliff with no memory aside from his name, Colin. He falls in with Zack and Molly and all the other ravens of the Raven’s End flock. He speaks with the animals of the valley, wonders about the strange two-legged visitors, and hears the voice of the wind, leading to an adventure rooted equally in spirituality and magic and in the ecology of the mountains. I can’t spoil what he does discover about his history. Go pick up a copy and find out.

Most of the trail up to Raven’s End is pretty gradual and easy. Being a public holiday, it was super busy as well. Families with a half-dozen young children, couples with two or three dogs. I had bear spray and layers and food, as if I was ready for a proper backcountry walk, but it was more bustling than most downtown streets. Little grew in the late autumn, but plenty of red wild rose hips stood out at the tips of thorny shrubs. I did chew one. Don’t tell Parks. A couple sat on the bluffs overlooking the wide reserve land in the rolling hills below and eastward, performing a ceremony with a tobacco pipe and shakers. I heard their singing washing over the woods before I actually saw them as I walked past and shared a nod.

Treeless montane aspen gave way to subalpine firs. The ground changed from dissolving brown leaves to red needle duff. A little bit of snow stuck to the ground at the elevation of Raven’s End itself, very thin and packed down, no obstacle of any sort, just a reminder that winter was near. Arguably here, but I don’t feel like arguing. More importantly: I did, in fact, see the ravens!

The start of the cliff is the usual and my planned turnaround point, but as i ate my human sandwich sitting on a rock, a group of church ladies chatting with me said that it was as worth at least going through the first slim crack of the scrambly section for the view beyond. I love climbing through cracks and dramatic rocks like this, so they were totally right.

Beyond the chimney you can look down to CMC Valley (I don’t know what this stands for, but it’s the valley behind Yamnuska; I may do that loop sometime) and, right to left, the twin peaks of Mount Wendell and the more westerly Morrowmount. Yes I switched the usual reading direction to end with MORROWMOUNT, because it sounds like something out of a fantasy novel.

Looking up at the backside of Yamnuska it look easy enough to scramble the route, it’s popular to scramble, and I do really want to do that, but not in the snow, not alone, not with a warm but forceful Chinook wind blasting from the west, and not with the last interpretive sign mentioning risk of death three times on the one sign. I turned around and descended, plunge-running past the kids and dogs back to the car and home.

[angryrdpanda]

Banned Native-Authored Children's Books (because of MAGA zealots)

Firekeeper's Daughter written by Angeline Boulley (Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians)

Unstoppable: How Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team Defeated Army written by Art Coulson (Cherokee); illustrated by Nick Hardcastle (not Native)

Look, Grandma! Ni, Elisi! written by Art Coulson (Cherokee), illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight (Chickasaw)

Fishing on Thin Ice written by Art Coulson (Cherokee)

Lure of the Lake written by Art Coulson (Cherokee)

Sharice's Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids (Ho-Chunk); illustrated by Joshua Mangeshig Pawis-Steckley (Wasauksing)

We Still Belong by Christine Day (Upper Skagit); cover art by Madelyn Goodnight (Chickasaw)

The Marrow Thieves by Cherie Dimaline (Metis Nation of Ontario)

Forever Cousins by Laurel Goodluck (Mandan, Hidatsa and Tsimshian member); illustrated by Jonathan Nelson (Diné)

The Storyteller by Brandon Hobson (Cherokee)

We Are Water Protectors by Michaela Goade (Turtle Mountain Ojibwe); illustrated by Michaela Goade (Tlingit)

A Snake Falls to Earth by Darcie Little Badger (Lipan Apache)

Indian No More by Charlene Willing McManis (Confederated Tribes of Grande Ronde); cover art by Marlena Myles (Spirit Lake Dakota/Mohegan/Muscogee)

Fry Bread: A Native American Family Story by Kevin Maillard (Seminole); illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal (not Native)

The People Shall Continue written by Simon Ortiz (Acoma Pueblo), illustrated by Sharol Graves (Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma).

An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States, for Young People by Debbie Reese (Nambé Owingeh) and Jean Mendoza (not Native), adapted from the original edition written by Roxanne Dunbar Ortiz (not Native)

Fatty Legs written by Margaret-Olemaun Pokiak-Fenton (Inuvialiut)

Hiawatha and the Peacemaker written by Robbie Robertson (Mohawk), illustrated by David Shannon (not Native)

Mary and the Trail of Tears by Andrea Rogers (Cherokee)

You Hold Me Up by Monique Gray Smith (Cree), illustrated by Danielle Daniel

Jingle Dancer by Cynthia Leitich Smith (Mvskoke), illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright (not Native) and Ying-Hwa Hu (not Native).

Sisters of the Neversea by Cynthia Leitich Smith (Mvskoke), cover illustration by Floyd Cooper (Mvskoke)

Thunderous written by M. L. Smoker (Assiniboine and Sioux tribes of Montana's Fort Peck Reservation) and Natalie Peeterse (not Native); illustrated by Dale Ray DeForest (Diné)

We Are Grateful written by by Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation), illustrated by Frane Lessac (not Native)

At the Mountains Base written by Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation), illustrated by Weshoyot Alvitre (Tongva, Cahuilla, Chumash, Spanish & Scottish)

"The Way of the Anigiduwagi" written by Traci Sorell (Cherokee Nation), illustrated by MaryBeth Timothy (Cherokee) in The Talk: Conversations about Race, Love and Truth edited by Cheryl and Wade Hudson

Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer written by Traci Sorell (Cherokee); illustrated by Natasha Donovan (Metis)

Powwow Day written by Traci Sorell (Cherokee); illustrated by Madelyn Goodnight (Chickasaw)

Kapaemahu written by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu (Kanaka Maoli), Dean Hamer (not Native), and Joe Wilson (not Native); illustrated by Daniel Sousa

[Full List by Debbie Reese]

[astonishinglegends]

Ep 269: The Hitchhiker of Mogollon Rim

"The trickster is found worldwide. Superficially, his tales seem little more than entertaining stories for children, but they encode important truths. The trickster is central to many religious beliefs, and some of the tales are sacred. In fact, a number of cultures permit only a few persons to tell the stories and restrict when they can be told because they have a power of their own."  -- "The Trickster and the Paranormal," by George P. Hansen

Description:

The Mogollon Rim in northcentral Arizona is a geological landform that spans around 200 miles east to west, demarking the southern boundary of the Colorado Plateau in the state. This topographical feature is classified as an escarpment where wide and steeply sloping cliffs and rock masses delineate the high pine-covered plateau on the northern side, which receives cold winter temperatures and light snow from the desert-like conditions below to the south. This transitional nature provides a habitat for significantly varying types of plants and animals. Perhaps because of Mogollon Rim’s liminal nature, this variance is claimed by many to also extend to creatures and phenomena that dwell beyond our understanding. Accounts and legends of UFOs, supernatural occurrences, and even its own brand of a hominin-like beast known as the “Mogollon Monster” are familiar to the territory. The supernatural element became all too real for our guest, Jay, who endured a terrifying encounter while working as a wildlife biologist for the Arizona Game and Fish Department. While studying black bears in the rugged canyons and terrain of the Rim, Jay encountered an impossible stranger in a pretty unlikely place, one that insisted on getting a ride. But who or what was this thing, and what was their intention? An ancient spirit known to the Native American cultures of the region or a physical being with mystical powers masquerading as a weird human? While it is never advisable to pick up strangers, it seems that one may be compelled to give a ride to a hitchhiker on Mogollon Rim, maybe as just a playful reminder that humans are not the apex of the paranormal food chain.

Reference Links:

CLICK HERE to listen to “Astonishing Al’s Mix Tape” on Spotify

CLICK HERE to listen to “Astonishing Legends Creepit” – a curated collection of our creepiest episodes on Spotify!

Mogollon Rim on Wikipedia

Mogollon culture on Wikipedia

Navajo

Escarpment

Madrean Sky Islands

Sky island

“Mogollon Monster 100” trail race

Mogollon Monster

The Mogollon Monster from Weird U.S.

“Bigfoot sightings abound in early Rim Country history” from the Payson Roundup, Tuesday, March 1, 2016

“Arizonan Legends” from the Horizon Sun, April 1, 2017

“Rim Country Places” from the Rim Review, January 22, 2014

“Ask Clay: Gather round for tales of the Mogollon Monster” from azcentral.com

“Searching for the Mogollon Monster” from Williams - Grand Canyon News

“Story, video: Apaches go public with Bigfoot sightings: 'It cannot be ignored any longer'“ from Tucson.com

“40 years later: Most documented UFO sighting, abduction still draw interest” from the White Mountain Independent

The Mogollon Monster YouTube channel

“The Legend Of The Mogollon Monster In Arizona May Send Chills Down Your Spine” from Only in Your State

Arizona Game & Fish Department

Location:

Mogollon Rim, Arizona

Suggested Listening:

Badlands

Badlands is an anthology series that blends history and true crime to tell the transgressive stories of some of the biggest names in Hollywood. This is not the Hollywood history you’ve heard before. These are uncensored, immersive, edge-of-your-seat storytelling. Host Jake Brennan, creator and host of the award-winning music and true crime podcast DISGRACELAND, explores the most insane stories surrounding the world’s most interesting Hollywood icons. Badlands has covered many actors, directors, and more, including the mysterious deaths of Marilyn Monroe and Natalie Wood... Tim Allen’s former career as a low-level drug dealer... the curse of the movie Poltergeist... how porn star John Holmes got caught up in the infamous Wonderland murders... and more episodes on Winona Ryder, Johnny Depp, River Phoenix, Gianni Versace, Robin Williams, Heath Ledger, Sharon Tate, Robert Downey Jr., and so many more. New episodes of Badlands are released every Wednesday, with bonus episodes released every Friday. Subscribe to Badlands on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, the iHeartRadio app, AmazonMusic, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Opening the Doors

Hear Forrest as a guest on our good friend Bradley Netherton’s podcast, Opening the Doors, all about the legendary band with Jim Morrison! This episode covers all the mentions of The Doors on The Simpsons animated series.

KLU Podcast – Keep Looking up

CLICK HERE for Persephone Holloway’s podcast, KLU “Keep Looking Up” on Podbean

Persephone May Holloway’s music on Spotify

Southern gothic podcast

Listen to our good friend Brandon Schexnayder’s Southern Gothic podcast, featuring Forrest narrating Edgar Allen Poe’s poem, Annabelle Lee

Find us on YouTube!

Click this text to find all Astonishing Legends episodes and more on our Youtube Channel https://www.youtube.com/c/Astonishinglegends

Join us on Patreon!

Click HERE or go to patreon.com/astonishinglegends to become one of our Patreon members and receive exclusive offerings, like our bonus Astonishing Junk Drawer episodes (posted every weekend the main show is dark) commercial-free episodes, and more!

SPECIAL OFFERS FROM OUR SPECIAL SPONSORS:

FIND OTHER GREAT DEALS FROM OUR SHOW’S SPONSORS BY CLICKING HERE!

CREDITS:

Episode 269: The Hitchhiker of Mogollon Rim. Produced by Scott Philbrook & Forrest Burgess; Audio Editing by Sarah Vorhees Wendel of VW Sound. Music and Sound Design by Allen Carrescia. Tess Pfeifle, Producer and Lead Researcher. Ed Voccola, Technical Producer. Research Support from The Astonishing Research Corps, or "A.R.C." for short. Copyright 2023 Astonishing Legends Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

[anumberofhobbies]

I Found a Badland Hiding a Vanished Civilization

Dec 19, 2024  #wildwest #ancienthistory #backpacking There's a desert canyon with an infamous past. Hundreds entered, and never returned. In this episode, I explore this place that Apaches and outlaws frequented, and find the ghosts of those who met their fate here. The trail led to many shocking discoveries of the past. #exploration #history #archaeologyadventures #hiking #wildwest #backpacking #ancienthistory #adventure

[sanctobin]

History and virtues of the turquoise according to the Native Americans.

Venetian merchants were the first to introduce and sell turquoise in Europe in the 17th century. At that time the stone took its name from the French "turquois" meaning "stone of Turkey". The Europeans named it this way thinking that turquoise were originally from Turkey. However, turquoise is found on two continents, Asia and America. Native American turquoise was discovered much earlier, in the United States. From the year 200 B.C. by the Hohokam and Anasazi tribes, whose territories today correspond to Arizona and New Mexico, used them.

How turquoises have been discovered?

A people of Native American farmers, established in New Mexico on the banks of the Rio Grande, were the very first to discover Native American turquoise stone. A few years later, in the year 1500, the Spaniards arrived on Native American lands. They were followed by missionaries and Anglo-Americans. All of them mixed with the Amerindians and discovered the beauty of Amerindian turquoise. They immediately saw the potential of this stone, which quickly became an object of great value, especially in trade and commerce. Long before the famous California gold rush, there was a very different rush: the turquoise trail. This is the mythical route that miners used to take in search of this blue stone, stretching from Albuquerque to Santa Fe.

How turquoises are extracted?

Turquoise is one of the very first stones that man extracted from the ground. Turquoise mines were present in 6 states in the southwestern United States: Nevada, California, Utah, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico. Many mines are now closed because they no longer have turquoise to extract. Most of the stone deposits were then only 30 meters below the surface. Early miners used pickaxes and did not have the technology to dig deeper. As a result, they found lower quality stone because it was too close to the surface. The larger and better quality Native American turquoise stones are better anchored in the ground.

They require much more modern means of extraction since they are located in a hard rock, granite. While formers miners used wooden tools, today's miners are modernly equipped: Steel shovels, jackhammers and excavators make it possible to dig deeper and deeper into the ground. The desire to find Native American turquoise stones drives them to dig deeper and deeper into the ground. It is also possible to find turquoise deposits on the southern slopes of the mountains in winter. During this period, the southern slopes receive much more sunshine. The snow and sun mix and the water rushes down to form a spring below. Knowledgeable stone seekers know that by following this flow they have a good chance of finding a deposit of Native American turquoise stones.

What are the turquoise's virtues according to the Native Americans?

Turquoise, also known as the "stone of life" has a special significance in Native American culture. Many tribes believe that this stone is "alive" because it has the ability to change color according to its environment. In the Native American beliefs there is the fact that the Earth lives and that everything that emanates from it is therefore very precious. According to them, the Native American turquoise has incredible powers and would be a piece of the sky sent to Earth by the gods. It was used in most ceremonies and prayers as well as in medicine. Some people also believed that it was possible to influence the weather with this stone.

The Navajo people, whose territory now stretches from New Mexico to Arizona, used turquoise in their ceremonies. They would dip the stone into a river to bring rain. For the Apaches, it was used for protection during wars, battles or even hunting. According to them, the stone combined the powers of the sky and the sea. It brought courage and luck to warriors, hunters and all the tribe members.

By Harpo

[facebooknotes57]

A diversidade étnica e cultural dos povos indígenas da América do Norte é notável, mas pouco compreendida em sua totalidade. Embora tribos como os Apaches, Sioux, Cherokee e Cheyenne sejam amplamente reconhecidas, existem muitos outros grupos que desempenharam papéis essenciais na história, nas práticas culturais e nas relações sociopolíticas dessa região. Entre eles, destacam-se os Blackfoot, Arapaho e Navajo, cada um com suas características únicas e modos de vida específicos.

Os Apaches, conhecidos por suas habilidades de combate e vida nômade, habitavam principalmente o sudoeste dos Estados Unidos, em territórios que hoje fazem parte do Arizona, Novo México e Texas. Divididos em várias subtribos, como os Mescalero, Chiricahua e Jicarilla, eles adaptaram suas práticas ao clima árido da região e desenvolveram estratégias de sobrevivência baseadas na caça, coleta e ocasionalmente na agricultura. Os Sioux, outro grupo amplamente conhecido, compõem uma ampla confederação de tribos das Grandes Planícies, como os Lakota, Dakota e Nakota. A vida social dos Sioux girava em torno da caça ao búfalo, e sua cultura se caracterizava pela forte organização tribal e por rituais espirituais profundamente simb��licos, como a Dança do Sol.

O povo Cherokee, originário do sudeste dos Estados Unidos, é conhecido por suas habilidades agrícolas e pela estrutura sociopolítica complexa, que incluía um conselho tribal centralizado. Durante o século XIX, os Cherokee foram submetidos à remoção forçada pelo governo dos Estados Unidos, que os levou ao longo da conhecida "Trilha das Lágrimas", uma das páginas mais trágicas da história indígena americana (Perdue e Green, 2007). Já os Cheyenne, que também habitavam as Grandes Planícies, desenvolveram práticas culturais ligadas à caça e eram reconhecidos por sua sociedade guerreira e pelas alianças com outras tribos, como os Arapaho e os Sioux, para resistir ao avanço europeu.

Além desses grupos mais conhecidos, existem muitos outros povos indígenas com contribuições significativas. Os Blackfoot, por exemplo, ocupavam as planícies do norte (principalmente no atual Montana e Canadá) e eram mestres na caça ao búfalo, central para sua economia e espiritualidade. Os Arapaho, que inicialmente viviam na região das Montanhas Rochosas, estabeleceram uma forte tradição de mobilidade e habilidades de combate, além de alianças estratégicas com outras tribos. Por sua vez, os Navajo são o maior grupo indígena dos Estados Unidos em termos populacionais, com uma presença significativa no sudoeste americano. Diferentemente das tribos nômades das planícies, os Navajo desenvolveram uma cultura agrícola e são conhecidos por suas habilidades na tecelagem e na produção de joias, além de uma cosmologia complexa que integra rituais de cura e cerimônias sagradas (Iverson, 2002).

Estudos antropológicos e históricos revelam que, apesar de suas diferenças, esses grupos compartilhavam uma visão de mundo que valorizava a harmonia com a natureza e o respeito aos ancestrais. Embora enfrentem desafios decorrentes da colonização e da política de assimilação, esses povos têm demonstrado uma forte resiliência, preservando suas identidades culturais e mantendo vivas suas tradições através de práticas comunitárias, celebrações e revitalização da língua (Thornton, 1987).

A compreensão da diversidade dos povos indígenas da América do Norte é essencial para uma apreciação completa de sua contribuição para a cultura e a história americanas. Ao explorar a riqueza de suas práticas e a complexidade de suas organizações sociais, conseguimos vislumbrar uma parte fundamental do patrimônio cultural da América.

Referências:

Iverson, Peter. Diné: A History of the Navajos. University of New Mexico Press, 2002.

Perdue, Theda, e Michael D. Green. The Cherokee Nation and the Trail of Tears. Viking, 2007.

Thornton, Russell. American Indian Holocaust and Survival: A Population History Since 1492. University of Oklahoma Press, 1987.

https://www.facebook.com/share/188UYviNPY/

[tahomawhisperingwind]

The Spiritual Harvest: Foraging and Apache Culture

Image generated by the author

Imagine walking through a sun-drenched landscape, the scent of wild sage wafting through the air, as the soft rustle of leaves accompanies your every step. Each footfall connects you to a world saturated with history, tradition, and spirituality—a world where the act of gathering what the Earth offers is not merely a means of survival, but a sacred dance with nature itself. For the Apache people, foraging is deeply interwoven with their spirituality, forming a vital part of their cultural identity. In this exploration of the Apache relationship with foraging, we will uncover the layers of meaning behind their practices, their reverence for the land, and how these elements are woven into their everyday lives.

The Sacred Interconnection

At the heart of Apache spirituality lies a profound understanding that nature and spirit are inseparable. For Apache individuals, foraging is not a task to be completed; it is an act imbued with purpose and spiritual significance. When they venture into the wilderness, they do so with a heart full of gratitude and respect. Each plant they encounter, every creature they observe, becomes a teacher, offering lessons about life, balance, and the interconnectedness of all beings.

The Apache refer to the Earth as Ãnt'i, a term that encapsulates their belief in the sacredness of the land. Each time they gather food, they engage in a dialogue with their ancestors and the spirit world, cultivating a deep sense of belonging and purpose. This process transforms foraging into a meditative practice, where every berry harvested or root unearthed symbolizes enlightenment and connection—a tangible reminder of their spiritual heritage.

Historical Context: A Legacy of Resilience

The Apache people have thrived for centuries in the challenging landscapes of the American Southwest, adapting their practices to the rhythms of nature. Foraging has evolved from a survival tactic to a spiritual journey, a rite that connects them to their ancestors and reinforces their beliefs about the sacredness of nature. Traditional Apache stories, passed down through generations, echo themes of foraging, survival, and the respect owed to all living beings. They serve as a reminder that nature is not merely a backdrop for life but a living entity that demands reverence.

Elders in the community have long been the guardians of knowledge, teaching younger generations about the edible treasures hidden within the land—wild onions, acorns, berries, and game. These teachings emphasize the seasonal cycles that dictate foraging habits, fostering a sense of rootedness and spiritual connection. Each season offers its unique gifts, and the Apache people approach these offerings with awareness and gratitude.

Cultural Significance: Nourishing Body and Soul

For the Apache, foraging is more than just a means of sustenance; it is a vital aspect of their identity. It reinforces their spirituality, strengthens communal ties, and illustrates the interconnectedness of life. The belief that plants and animals are integral to the ecosystem is foundational to Apache philosophy. Just as the Earth nourishes them, the Apache people see it as their responsibility to care for the land in return.

Gathering food becomes an occasion for storytelling and bonding among family members. During communal foraging events, tales of ancestors are shared, and teachings about the significance of various plants—like juniper and sage—are passed down. This blending of the tangible and spiritual acts as a bridge, uniting individuals with their cultural heritage and their responsibilities to the Earth.

A Lesson from the Elder: The Wisdom of Foraging

One poignant story centers around an elder named KOI, who embodies the wisdom of the Apache tradition. On a warm afternoon, he takes two young members of the tribe, TSLA and Liminal, on a foraging journey. As they walk the familiar trails, KOI imparts invaluable lessons: "Foraging is not just about gathering food; it is about understanding our place in the world. Every plant, every creature, has its own spirit, and we must approach them with respect."

As they forage, TSLA and Liminal learn to listen—not just to the sounds of nature but to the whispers of wisdom that the land offers. KOI teaches them that every act of gathering is a conversation with the Earth, emphasizing the balance between taking and giving. The young ones begin to see the world through a new lens, recognizing the sacredness in what they once considered mere resources. Their journey becomes a rite of passage, reinforcing their connection to the land and to one another.

Expert Insights: The Relevance of Foraging

Anthropologists and cultural ecologists have long studied the Apache relationship with foraging, recognizing its role in reinforcing community bonds and promoting mindfulness. Experts highlight that the rituals accompanying foraging activities honor the spirit of the land and its inhabitants, illustrating the Apache belief in the life force of all living beings. These practices transcend mere survival; they cultivate a culture of gratitude and interconnectedness, essential in a world increasingly disconnected from nature.

In our modern context, where urbanization and technology often lead to a disconnection from the natural world, the principles of Apache foraging resonate with a growing desire to reconnect with the land. The practice of foraging encourages not only an appreciation of nature’s bounty but also a deeper awareness of our place within the ecosystem.

Practical Applications: Bridging Ancient Wisdom and Modern Life

Incorporating foraging into contemporary life can enhance spiritual awareness and foster environmental stewardship. Engaging in rituals before harvesting—offering gratitude to the Earth and acknowledging the spirits of the plants—invites mindfulness into the practice. Community foraging events can serve as a platform for sharing knowledge and strengthening communal ties, creating a living tapestry of tradition that honors both culture and ecology.

Educational programs that focus on native plants and traditional foraging practices can nurture respect for the environment, promoting sustainability and responsibility. By embracing these teachings, individuals can learn not only to gather but also to cultivate a harmonious relationship with the natural world.

A Modern Movement: Rediscovering Roots

Across urban landscapes, a modern foraging movement is emerging. People are drawn to the idea of reconnecting with the land, rediscovering their roots, and embracing the teachings of cultures like the Apache. This movement echoes Apache wisdom, emphasizing the importance of respect, gratitude, and interconnectedness. As urban dwellers forage for wild edibles, they are reminded of nature’s abundance and the spiritual richness it offers.

Foraging fosters mindfulness, encouraging individuals to slow down and appreciate the world around them. In doing so, they weave Apache teachings into their lives, honoring the gifts of the land and the lessons it imparts.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

The connection between foraging and Apache spirituality is a tapestry woven with threads of respect, gratitude, and interconnectedness. It invites us to embark on a journey that honors the land and nurtures personal growth. As we reflect on the Apache relationship with foraging, we are encouraged to consider how these ancient practices can enhance our spiritual journeys and deepen our appreciation for the natural world.

In embracing the wisdom of the Apache, we are reminded of our responsibilities towards the land and its resources. Foraging is not merely an act of gathering; it is a path towards mindfulness, purpose, and harmony. As we step into this world of spiritual abundance, we may find ourselves enriched by the simple yet profound act of connecting with nature—one foraged treasure at a time.

Glossary of Apache Terminology

Ãnt'i: The Earth, representing the sacredness of the land in Apache spirituality.

This exploration of the Apache connection to foraging invites us all to consider how we can cultivate our own relationships with the land, reminding us that every act of gathering is a step towards understanding, respect, and unity with the world around us.

AI Disclosure: AI was used for content ideation, spelling and grammar checks, and some modification of this article.

About Black Hawk Visions: We preserve and share timeless Apache wisdom through digital media. Explore nature connection, survival skills, and inner growth at Black Hawk Visions.

[alicegrady98]

The Influence of Native American Culture in Raton New Mexico: Traditions and Heritage.

Raton, New Mexico, located near the Colorado border, has a rich cultural history influenced significantly by Native American traditions and heritage. This influence is evident in various aspects of life in Raton, New Mexico from art and festivals to local customs and historical sites.

** Historical Context

1. **Native American Tribes**: The region around Raton has been historically inhabited by several Native American tribes, including the Apache, Comanche, and Ute. These tribes were known for their distinct cultures, traditions, and interactions with the environment.

2. **Archaeological Sites**: Raton and its surrounding areas are home to numerous archaeological sites that offer insights into the lives of the Native American tribes who once inhabited the region. Artifacts such as pottery, tools, and petroglyphs provide a glimpse into their daily lives and spiritual practices.

** Cultural Traditions

1. **Festivals and Celebrations**: Raton hosts various events and festivals that celebrate Native American culture. These events often feature traditional music, dance, storytelling, and crafts. Powwows, in particular, are significant cultural gatherings where tribes come together to celebrate their heritage through song, dance, and rituals.

2. **Art and Craftsmanship**: Native American art is highly regarded in Raton. Local artisans continue to produce traditional crafts such as pottery, beadwork, and weaving. These items are often sold at local markets and fairs, preserving the techniques and styles passed down through generations.

3. **Music and Dance**: Traditional music and dance are integral to Native American culture in Raton. Drum circles, flute music, and ceremonial dances are performed at cultural events, providing a deeper understanding of the spiritual and communal aspects of Native American life.

** Heritage and Education

1. **Museums and Cultural Centers**: The Raton Museum and other local cultural centers play a crucial role in preserving and educating the public about Native American heritage. Exhibits often include historical artifacts, artworks, and information on the history and traditions of the Native American tribes of the region.

2. **Educational Programs**: Schools and community organizations in Raton often incorporate Native American history and culture into their curricula and programs. This includes teaching students about the traditions, languages, and contributions of Native American peoples to the region's history.

** Historical Sites and Landmarks

1. **Capulin Volcano National Monument**: This site is not only geologically significant but also holds cultural importance for Native American tribes who regard it as sacred. The monument offers educational programs that highlight the intersection of natural history and Native American heritage.

2. **Santa Fe Trail**: Raton's proximity to the historic Santa Fe Trail means that it has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries. The trail was used by Native American tribes long before European settlers, and this history is commemorated through various historical markers and interpretive centers.

** Modern Influence

1. **Community Engagement**: Native American culture continues to influence the social fabric of Raton. Community events often include Native American traditions, and there is a strong emphasis on honoring and preserving this cultural heritage.

2. **Economic Impact**: Tourism driven by interest in Native American culture and history contributes to the local economy. Visitors come to experience the cultural richness of the area, including attending festivals, visiting museums, and exploring historical sites.

** Conclusion

The influence of Native American culture in Raton, New Mexico, is profound and multifaceted. From historical contexts and traditions to modern-day celebrations and economic contributions, Native American heritage remains a vibrant and integral part of the community. Efforts to preserve and promote this cultural legacy ensure that the traditions and history of the region's Native American tribes continue to be honored and remembered.

[kimrimsza]

The Great Outdoors: Camping and Outdoor Recreation Near Phoenix

When immersing oneself in the great outdoors, Phoenix, Arizona, is an ideal gateway to various camping and outdoor recreation experiences. From tranquil desert landscapes to lush mountain retreats, here's a guide to outdoor havens that promise adventure and relaxation.

1. Tonto National Forest: A Wilderness Escape

Tonto National Forest, located just northeast of Phoenix, is a sprawling expanse that offers a diverse range of camping experiences. Whether you prefer lakeside camping at Roosevelt Lake or the solitude of the Apache Trail dispersed camping areas, Tonto National Forest provides a serene backdrop for reconnecting with nature.

2. McDowell Mountain Regional Park: Desert Oasis

McDowell Mountain Regional Park is an excellent choice for those seeking a desert escape with panoramic views. Campsites are nestled against the backdrop of the McDowell Mountains, offering hiking and mountain biking trails for daytime adventures. As night falls, the clear desert skies provide a breathtaking canvas for stargazing.

3. Lost Dutchman State Park: Legends and Campfires

Named after the fabled Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine, this state park offers a blend of history and outdoor recreation. Campers can set up beneath the iconic Superstition Mountains and explore trails that wind through the Sonoran Desert. As evening descends, gather around a campfire and immerse yourself in the rich tales of the Lost Dutchman legend.

4. White Tank Mountain Regional Park: Desert Beauty and Petroglyphs

White Tank Mountain Regional Park, known for its ancient petroglyphs and rugged beauty, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Campers can choose from campsites surrounded by saguaro cacti and picturesque desert landscapes. The park's extensive trail system invites exploration, and the Waterfall Canyon Trail is a must-visit for a refreshing outdoor adventure.

5. Lake Pleasant Regional Park: Lakeside Serenity

Lake Pleasant Regional Park offers a camping experience with a waterfront view. With numerous campgrounds dotting the shoreline, campers can enjoy water activities during the day, from boating to fishing. The desert sunsets reflected on the lake create a magical atmosphere, perfect for unwinding around the campfire.

6. Usery Mountain Regional Park: Hiking and Desert Flora

Usery Mountain Regional Park is a hidden gem offering a diverse landscape of desert flora and mountainous terrain. Campers can choose sites surrounded by the unique beauty of the Usery Mountains. The park's extensive trail system caters to hikers of all levels, providing an opportunity to witness the desert's vibrant plant life up close.

7. Payson: A Mountain Escape

Venture northeast of Phoenix to the town of Payson for a mountain retreat. Surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, Payson offers campgrounds amidst towering pine trees. Escape the desert heat and enjoy a cooler climate, with ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply basking in the tranquility of the forest.

In conclusion, Phoenix and its surrounding areas provide a tapestry of outdoor experiences, from the vastness of the desert to the calm serenity of mountain retreats. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a novice outdoor enthusiast, these destinations offer a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, embrace nature, and create lasting memories under the Arizona sky.

[autotrails]

American Auto Trail-Postal Highway/Ozark Trail (Sayre to Mangum OK)

American Auto Trail-Postal Highway/Ozark Trail (Sayre to Mangum OK) https://youtu.be/B54UQWAJKY0 This American auto trail travels from Sayre to Mangum in southwestern Oklahoma along portions of the Postal Highway and Ozark Trail auto trails.

[fantasiaplayers-ffxiv]

Check out our extensive road trip guide to the scenic and historic Apache Trail! Discover the beauty and history of the Apache Trail with our comprehensive road trip guide.

[dandywondrous]

It’s Native American Heritage Month

Photo by Tailyr Irvine

(11/24/2023) In addition to learning and celebrating the history of indigenous peoples, we must support indigenous peoples and communities that are alive today and have been alive for centuries.

I currently live on the lands of the Wyandot, Mississauga, Potawatomi, and Anishinabek people. These people lived here for thousands of years before white settlers colonized the land in the 1800s. I will always support indigenous liberation and sovereignty.

To my non-native US and Canadian followers -- if you’re new to the Land Back Movement, you can start by learning whose land you’re on here. Land acknowledgment is the first step, and from there you can reach out to your neighboring First Nation to start building relationships and learn how you can support them. There are still SO many non-native folks in the U.S. who don’t know the history of American colonialism and acts of state-sanctioned genocide committed against Native Americans -- acts that are still ongoing to this day. I know this is kinda poli sci 101 and this has been said already, but we need to continue educating ourselves and each other. Education is one of our greatest tools in the fight against colonialism and imperialism. Knowing that, I'm sharing some current issues that are threatening indigenous people and communities. These are not exclusively indigenous issues either -- they are issues that concern humanity as a whole.

It is also important we build our communities around things that are positive such as art, literature, and culture. So to bolster these things, I'm also sharing some indigenous content creators, authors, and shops. Thank you to @help-ivebeen-turned-into-aparrot for the recommendations and expanding this list!

Remember history, celebrate Native American heritage, and stay informed! Links below the cut.

Current Major Issues (as of November 2023)

Navajo Nation Water Rights Overview (NARF) Resources and how to help (from 2020, still valuable)

Alaskan Ambler Road Overview (Winter Wildlands Alliance) Paving Tundra, a short documentary Take action

Nevada Lithium Mine Overview (First Nations) People of Red Mountain/how to help

Missing And Murdered Indigenous Women Info and overview (Native Hope) Mission

Native American History and Culture

The books and articles with links are freely available. To read the others, you might be able to find them at a nearby library using WorldCat.

Introduction to Native American History by Native Hope

Stories, Dreams, and Ceremonies: Anishinaabe ways of learning by Leanne Simpson

Origin and Traditional History of the Wyandotts by Peter D. Clarke

Handbook of North American Indians, Volume 11: Great Basin by William C. Sturtevant and Warren L. D'Azevedo

Shoshonean Peoples and the Overland Trails by Dale L. Morgan

Diné History of Navajoland by Klara Kelley and Harris Francis

Native American-Owned Shops

Thunder Voice Hat Co. - handmade hats, hat accessories, and other apparel. Kotah Bear - blankets, robes, and jewelry. Owned by two people of Navajo Nation, selling art and jewelry made by Navajo and Pueblo artists. Manitobah - moccasins, mukluks, and other winterwear. A global brand founded by Sean McCormick, a Métis entrepreneur. Also has the Indigenous Market, which sells handmade products by indigenous artists from Canada and the US. Little Inuk Beadwork - jewelry and accessories. Made by Lillian Putulik, Inuk artist. Mobilize - streetwear and fashion. Founded by Dusty LeGrande, Nehiyaw artist and activist. Based in Edmonton, CA.

Authors

Moniquill Blackgoose - science fiction and fantasy. Seaconke Wampanoag author. To Shape A Dragon's Breath Angeline Boulley - young adult thriller fiction. Chippewa author. Firekeeper's Daughter Cherie Dimaline - Métis author, mostly YA fiction. The Marrow Thieves, Hunting by Stars, Funeral Songs for Dying Girls Darcie Little Badger - science fiction and fantasy. Lipan Apache author. Elatsoe, A Snake Falls to Earth Stephen Graham Jones - horror fiction. Blackfoot Native American author. The Only Good Indians, Mongrels, After the People Lights Have Gone Off Delphine Red Shirt - autobiographies, culture, oral tradition. Oglala Lakota author. Turtle Lung Woman's Granddaughter, Bead on an Anthill: A Lakota Childhood, George Sword's Warrior Narratives Dani Trujillo - romance. Chicana/Pueblo author. Lizards Hold the Sun

Content Creators

Che Jim - humor, skits, social and political issues. Diné/Nishnaabe/Chicano content creator. Lillian Putulik - art and jewelry. Nunavik Inuk artist. Bossii Masu Nagaruk - current events and social and political issues. Iñupiaq content creator. David Little Elk - educating about and celebrating Oglala Lakota tribal wisdom. Oglala content creator. Edgar Martin del Campo - educating about cultures, languages, and religions of indigenous peoples of North and South America. Casey (aka Hot Glue Burns on insta) - cosplay and cosplay design/creation.

[imaginationcubed]

Check out our extensive road trip guide to the scenic and historic Apache Trail! Indulge in an enriching adventure along the Apache Trail as our extensive road trip guide unveils its breathtaking scenery and captivating history.

[academy13]

Doctor Who needs to do a story using the Lost Dutchman Mine story as the basis of it because if there were ever fodder for a Doctor Who story, its the Lost Duchman mine. 

Like I cannot begin to explain how perfect the broad strokes of the story would work into doing a Doctor Who story because like... there’s so much weird shit around this mine that may or may not exist that you can just go crazy. Plus like, the mountain range that features in the legend that’s Arizona specific is literally called the Superstition Mountains. I can’t find a meaning for the Native name (or well, one of the Native names for the range, there’s a few tribes in the area and the Wikipedia article supplies the Yavapai name, but not a meaning. And I know there’s likely an Apache name attached to as some Apache believe, to use terminology familiar to us white folks, that there’s a hole to hell in the mountains and that’s the cause of the dust storms) but I assume it’s generally befitting of the range and epic. There’s also the entire connection it has to the Peralta family and the so called Baron of Arizona (seriously, look up James Reavis, I cannot make up the brass this guy had in the fraud he pulled until the government went ‘Yo we need to take a closer look’. He nearly had control of most of the land in the goddamn territory).

And lest I forget, the reason this entire thing isn’t some little footnote in AZ state history, in 1931 someone went looking for the mine and then went missing. Six months later the body was found, and the skull had what was identified as two bullet holes in it. Since then many other people have gone missing looking for the mine, that again, may or may not exist at all. We’ve got a lot of stories of lost mines out here, the Lost Dutchman story may just be putting a few different stories together, but it also might not.  But really, you could just play with the whole thing in general because if there’s one thing I know, it doesn’t matter what’s out there in the desert, if you’re not prepared the desert will get you before you find anything that may or may not exist (there’s even a trail out there that when I looked at the website, it basically said that you don’t hike this trail during the summer and if you start this trail, you finish this trail. And in the cooler time of year, they recommend taking like two gallons of water with you. Because you’re getting into some remote areas, as in the trail is marked by cairns). 

The desert is a goddamn spooky ass place and you ought to respect her