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Pendejo Cave
32.4167° N, -105.9167° E
About
Pendejo Cave is a geological feature and archaeological site located in southern New Mexico about 20 miles east of Orogrande. Archaeologist Richard S. MacNeish claimed that human occupation of the cave pre-dates by tens of thousands of years the Clovis Culture, traditionally believed to be one of the oldest if not the oldest culture in the Americas.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Clovis tools present
c. 11,000 BCE
Possible faunal dates
c. 55,000 years ago
Discovery of Pendejo Cave
1978
First major excavation
early 1990
Second excavation season
late winter and early spring of 1991
Scholarly debate noted
2004
MacNeish's oldest estimate
c. 75,000 years ago
Review supporting pre-Clovis hypothesis
2005
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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