The Wetherill brothers, 1887

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The Wetherill brothers, cowboys from southwestern Colorado, were the first to bring the nation's attention to the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde. They went on to uncover other sites in the Southwest, including Chaco Canyon in New Mexico. Their activities highlighted the fact that no law existed governing preservation of such ruins, leading to creation of Mesa Verde National Park and the passage of the Antiquities Act in 1906. Future presidents would use the Antiquities Act to save much more than ancient ruins. First row, left to right, Al, Richard, John; standing, Winslow and Clayton. Richard was their leader.

Source:
Anasazi Heritage Center

Episode:
Episode Two: 1890-1915

Associated Park:
Mesa Verde National Park

Era:
1880-1900

Associated Person:
Wetherill Brothers