Richard Wetherill

Richard Wetherill was a 19th-century American explorer and archaeologist known for his work at Ancestral Puebloan sites in the southwestern United States, particularly Mesa Verde. His excavations, often made without formal scientific methods, uncovered valuable ancient artifacts and cliff dwellings, providing insight into Native American history. Wetherill's efforts contributed significantly to the recognition and preservation of these cultural heritage sites, although some of his practices later raised questions about archaeological integrity. Overall, he played a key role in bringing broader awareness to the rich history of the Ancestral Puebloans.