Adolfo Canyon Pueblito, Adolfo Canyon, Dulce, Rio Arriba County, NM

Significance: The pueblitos are small multi-roomed masonry dwellings found in the Navajo homeland, or Dinetah region of northwest New Mexico. Dating from the early 17th century, the pueblitos are significant indicators of the complex social relations that existed among the Navajos, Pueblos and other tribes, and the Spaniards. Situated on a small rock outcrop overlooking the upper portion of Adolfo Canyon, the Adolfo Canyon Pueblito is an excellent example of the defensive strategies employed in the development of the pueblito sites. Recent studies of the pueblitos suggest that defensive strategies include line-of-sight to other pueblitos. From the Adolfo Canyon Pueblito Gould Pass Pueblito (NM-168) is clearly visible. While the Adolfo Canyon Pueblito was constructed circa 1747, eight hogans were built as early as circa 1725. Unique features include a large juniper log laid across the rock outcrop, supporting a masonry wall on the east elevation and a petroglyph panel below the rock bench on which the pueblito is constructed.
Unprocessed Field note material exists for this structure: N570
Survey number: HABS NM-170
Building/structure dates: ca. 1747 Initial Construction