Investigations at Tree Small Classic Mimbres Sites, Grant County, New Mexico

Abstract

The applicability of three functional models concerning the occurence of small Classic Mimbres phase architectural sites is evaluated in light of data obtained from three sites in Grant County, New Mexico. One model proposes that small sites serve a trade-related function, another holds that small sites serve as agricultural fieldhouses, and the third posits small sites are actually crop storage facilities. Emphasis is focused on the structural attributes of the sites dealt with here due to the disturbed condition of each. The distinction between temporary and permanent habitational status of each site is made, based upon architectural data and associated room features. None of the functional models discussed herein account for the variability observed at the three sites. It is suggested that before viable general models describing the role of small sites in the cultural adaptation of the Classic Mimbres phase can be developed, a sample of sites must be examined from the perspective of their own unique contexts and attributes.