Trinchera Distribution in the Sierra Madre Occidental, Mexico

摘要

Trincheras are primitive dams or walls built of local rock. They occur widely throughout northern Mexico and extend into southwestern United States. They are associated with Indian habitation sites and are of two distinct types. The Sonoran-type trincheras most commonly appear encircling the tops of isolated peaks and are believed to have been crude fortifications. The Sierra-type trincheras are found principally across dry stream courses and are believed to have been built to retain water and/or soil. This paper discusses both types as they occur in or near the Sierra Madre Occidental and describes their distribution, archeological associations, and relationship to the physical geography of the region. (Author)