Crane Petroglyph Site- Using technology to highlight ancient rock images

I recently made a pilgrimage to Crane Petroglyph Site (formerly known as V-V Ranch) to try out an app called "aDStretch" which archaeology researchers have been experimenting with in order to reveal harder to see features in rock art.

I was amazed at the level of detail that the color changer revealed.

Before apps like aDStretch, more primitive methods like chalking were risky, as they can degrade the rock and distort the images.

A photo of chalked petroglyphs taken circa 1970, before regulations forbade the practice.

The Crane site is still being actively researched, however, studies have uncovered many aspects of its meaning so far, such as the site's use as a solar calendar.

The "kachina" or katsina as it is pronounced by the Hopi tribe, was strategically placed by their ancient ancestors, known as the Hisatsinom, as part of a solar calendar. During certain times of the year, various placements such as this catch sunlight in a manner that highlights various images, likely indicating optimal times for planting & harvesting.

Crane Petroglyph Site is unique to the Verde Valley as it is the only one to feature its namesake bird. It is also the largest & most well-preserved.

A short hike (less than a mile) on a well-maintained path takes visitors past old growth cottonwood and sycamore trees and remnants of the ranch's past into a shaded corridor where the towering rock face bearing eons-worth of petroglyphs are ensconced by a seating area.

A small handful of dedicated researchers and rangers maintain the site and give regular talks about the meaning of the petroglyphs and the cultural significance of the location.

I highly recommend this destination & remind anyone interested to check with the site beforehand, as hours can be irregular due to weather conditions.

For more info, visit fs.usda.gov or check with local tourism resources in the greater Sedona area.

Stay safe & happy travels!

Images/ words ©️ Lo Frisby, 2024.