Ancestral Puebloan Pottery Identification Lecture and Artifact Viewing

Identifying Ancestral Puebloan Pottery in the region of Canyons of the Ancients National Monument Lecture – 75 Minutes

Please join us for an engaging and visually rich lecture exploring the artistry, symbolism, and history of Ancestral Puebloan pottery from the region around Canyons of the Ancients National Monument. Led by an expert in AP Ceramics, Diane McBride, this presentation will guide participants through the methods and clues used to identify pottery types, from Chapin Gray Wares to the intricate black-on-white designs of Mesa Verde, and all of the varied other regional types in between.

The lecture will cover:
• Cultural Context: How pottery styles evolved among Ancestral Puebloan communities over centuries.
• Design & Form: Recognizing patterns, shapes, and manufacturing techniques that distinguish regional traditions.

Post Lecture CANM Curation Lab Materials Viewing – 45 Minutes

After the lecture, attendees will be able to view artifacts from the CANM Curation lab, up close and personal, in the Lowry Room next door to the theater. Diane McBride and monument staff will be on hand for a Q&A on the materials that will be out on display. This portion of the event will be open immediately after the lecture wraps-up 
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, archaeology student, or simply curious about the Southwest’s deep cultural heritage, this event offers a fascinating window into the skill and symbolism embedded in ancient clay.

📅 Date: Saturday, September 13, 2025
🕛 Time: 1:00 PM
📍 Location: Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center & Museum, 27501 CO-184, Dolores, CO 81323