Desert Culture petroglyphs on this page
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| Surprise Tank is in the Rodman Mountains, about 20 miles east of Barstow, California and a few miles south of I-40. The 'Tank' is a narrow, hundred yard long eroded water course through a basalt lava field. Certain times of the year water would accumulate here and the area became a stopping place for prehistoric people traveling through this part of the Mojave Desert. A trade route connecting the Colorado River tribes with those on the Pacific Coast passed through the area, and the 'Tank' was frequented by many cultures over a very long period of time. Prehistorically this area was occupied by unnamed Desert Culture hunter/ gatherer groups, followed by Shoshone and Paiute people and most recently this area was occupied by the Vanyume. Next 6 photos. | |
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here to see reproductions of
Mojave Desert Culture petroglyphs on this page (opens a new window) |
a plant? showing roots, leaves and flower top |
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| Evelyn Austin at a 'cave' with many rattlesnake elements carved around the opening. The cave was probably used by a rattlesnake shaman. | |
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| Books about Mojave Desert petroglyphs | A bee - legs to bottom left, striped body, head antenna to right, wing on top |
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