I read the article about Chaco Canyon in New Mexico being a satellite of the greater prehistoric cultures in Mexico. (Journal, Oct. 13.)
My non-traditional research also supports that premise.
The information comes from meditations done at the sites. Although a non-traditional form of gathering prehistoric information, psychic insights are becoming a valuable tool to guide the archaeologist to places of significance and areas of inquiry.
Chaco used the architectural knowledge gained from pyramid builders in Mexico. The journey from north to south was more or less constant – really a trade route like the Silk Road.
The immigration of people to North American sites not only came from the south but from the Northeast. Chaco settlers were outcasts of families and tribes, and the society grew as others arrived, including people from Mexico.
The theory that most of the people left in the winters is incorrect. The place was viable and vivid with life all year long. The kivas were a daily gathering place where women brought their projects and children played. Kivas were heated and were a community gathering place until needed for ceremonies.
Chaco was a trade town supplied with perishable goods from outlying communities such as Mesa Verde and Salmon Ruins. There was a scientific element that employed the site for astronomical sightings.
I enjoyed the story.
Susan Sampson
Tucson, Ariz.