The collection consists of five small blueprints, a large tracing of the blueprints, a annotated drawing, and a letter of transmittal from Gilbert Thompson. The drawings were made in October 1881 and depict petroglyphs near Fort Wingate, New Mexico.
Please note that the contents of the collection and the language and terminology used reflect the context and culture of the time of its creation. As an historical document, its contents may be at odds with contemporary views and terminology and considered offensive today. The information within this collection does not reflect the views of the Smithsonian Institution or National Anthropological Archives, but is available in its original form to facilitate research.
Biographical Note:
Gilbert Thompson (1839-1909) was a Union soldier and topographical engineer. He joined the Union army as a private in 1862 and became a corporal in the Regular Battalion of Engineers, serving until May 1865. After the war, he became involved with the U.S. Geographical Survey, and was made head of its Appalachian division in 1884.
Use of Pictographic symbols to designate specific persons, particularly in Ancient Mexico. No source. 3 pp; Letter, Lewis H. Beesen, Aug 27, 1888, 1 pp.
Collection Restrictions:
Manuscript 2372 is open for research.
Access to Manuscript 2372 requires an appointment.
Collection Rights:
Contact the repository for terms of use.
Collection Citation:
Manuscript 2372, National Anthropological Archives, Smithsonian Institution
