Alex Elvis Badillo | Indiana State University (original) (raw)

Dissertation by Alex Elvis Badillo

Doctoral Dissertation, 2019

For my dissertation project, I examined settlement and land-use shifts in Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexi... more For my dissertation project, I examined settlement and land-use shifts in Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico during the Postclassic period (A.D. 800-1521), a time of sociopolitical unrest. The main goal of the study was to understand the long-term sociopolitical and economic impact of wider political unrest on the rural region of Quiechapa. Quiechapa is a small town with a long history, located in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico, far away from any large urban centers. The Quiechapa region is an interesting case study that can provide insight into how urban and rural zones are sociopolitically and economically connected, and moreover, how those links relate to choices in anthropogenic landscape modification.

I conducted a regional settlement pattern survey and used survey grade GPS equipment to map and document all evidence of anthropogenic landscape modification in a 99 km2 region. In total, I documented 91 sites during the survey. I organized these spatial, metric, and descriptive data from each site into a robust geodatabase in order to analyze quantitative and qualitative data together.

The results of the project show that even though people in rural Quiechapa, Mexico lived in relative isolation, they were profoundly affected by broader sociopolitical changes. Over the long-term, the tumultuous Postclassic period was etched into the landscape in various ways. During Postclassic times of conflict, people began to occupy higher locations in Quiechapa’s landscape and modify hilltop sites adding defensive architectural features. Whether people in Quiechapa experienced direct warfare or political control from distant conquering groups is still unclear, but it is certain that Quiechapa residents prepared to defend themselves.

This research provides the foundational data for studying the effects of large-scale sociopolitical change and conquest on local land-use, highlighting major processes that have contributed to a shift in settlement pattern and land-use strategies.

Articles by Alex Elvis Badillo

Advances in Archaeological Practice, 2024

In the summer of 2022, Tulane University, in collaboration with archaeologists from other institu... more In the summer of 2022, Tulane University, in collaboration with archaeologists from other institutions, began excavations at the site of Pompeii. The archaeological work was focused on Insula 14 of Region 1, located in the southeastern sector of the site. To overcome the challenges of recording a complex urban excavation, and of working with a collaborative team, we designed and implemented a unique workflow that combines paperless and 3D data-capture methods through the use of GIS technologies. The final product of our documentation workflow was a robust and easy-to-use online geodatabase where archaeologists can revisit, explore, visualize, and analyze each excavated context using virtual tools. We present our workflow for digitally documenting observational and spatial data in the field, and how we made these data available to project archaeologists during and after the field season. First, we describe the development of digital forms in ESRI's Survey123. Then, we explain our procedures for 3D documentation through SfM photogrammetric methods and discuss how we integrated the data and transformed it into an accessible format by using interactive dashboards and online 3D web scenes. Finally, we discuss the components of our workflow that are broadly applicable and that can easily be adapted to other projects.

Ancient Mesoamerica, 2022

During an archaeological survey in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico... more During an archaeological survey in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico, archaeologists from the Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) encountered and documented a number of carved stone elements. Of particular interest are the 30 representations of ballcourts carved into natural rock outcrops at two sites in the region. This is the highest density in which this type of ballcourt representation occurs throughout Mesoamerica. After their initial discovery, members of PAQuie documented the carved stone ballcourts using structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry, a quick and affordable technique to collect 3D spatial, quantitative, and visual data of stone carvings.

In this article, I report on the carved stone ballcourt representations documented in the Quiechapa region and offer some preliminary interpretations. I first provide some description of the broader archaeological context in which the carvings were found. Then I describe the methods used to record the stone carvings, followed by a presentation of the data. Finally, in dialogue with extant literature, I explore some possibilities as to why these carved stone ballcourt representations were created, how they may have been used, and what they may symbolize.

Durante un estudio arqueológico en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, México, e... more Durante un estudio arqueológico en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa,
Oaxaca, México, en 2016, los arqueólogos del Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie)
encontraron y documentaron varios elementos de piedra grabada. De particular interés son las 30
representaciones de canchas de pelota grabadas en afloramientos rocosos en dos sitios de la
región, El Gentil y El Derrumbadero. Esta es la concentración más alta en la que este tipo de
representaciones de cancha de pelota ocurre en toda Mesoamérica. Después de su
descubrimiento inicial, los miembros de PAQuie documentaron las canchas de pelota en piedra
grabada utilizando fotogrametría de tipo estructura a partir de movimiento (o SfM, por sus siglas
en inglés), una técnica rápida y económicamente accesible para recopilar datos espaciales,
cuantitativos y visuales en 3D de gráficas rupestres.
En este artículo, informo sobre las representaciones de canchas de pelota documentadas
en la región de Quiechapa y ofrezco algunas interpretaciones preliminares. En la primera parte
describo el contexto arqueológico más amplio en el que se encontraron los elementos grabados.
Posteriormente, explico los métodos utilizados para registrar los elementos seguido por una
presentación de los datos. Finalmente, en diálogo con la literatura existente, exploro algunas
posibilidades de porque se crearon estas representaciones de canchas de pelota en piedra
grabada, cómo pudieron haber sido utilizadas y qué pueden simbolizar.
Al revisar la literatura disponible sobre representaciones de canchas de pelota grabadas
en piedra, muestro las áreas geográficas donde otros arqueólogos han identificado símbolos
semejantes y el rango de interpretaciones o hipótesis de su función y significado. Con base en las
interpretaciones de otros arqueólogos y lo que sabemos sobre el significado/función de las
ceremonias relacionadas con el juego de pelota mesoamericano, sugiero que los petrograbados
de Quiechapa probablemente fueron lugares para la ejecución de rituales relacionados con la
fertilidad, la muerte y la renovación.
En la discusión, ofrezco algunas reflexiones sobre las representaciones de rituales,
especulando cuándo podrían haber ocurrido, quiénes podrían haber estado involucrados en su
ejecución y cómo se usaron en relación con aspectos de la cosmología y la vida comunitaria.
Estos símbolos grabados en piedra aparentemente inertes en el paisaje de Quiechapa pueden
haber sido parte de las actividades sociales y profundamente significativas entre las que se
encontraban el derramamiento de sangre ritual para múltiples posibles propósitos, incluyendo el
mantenimiento del equilibrio y la fertilidad agrícola, la conmemoración de momentos
importantes en el tiempo o el fomento de lazos intracomunitarios e intercomunitarios. Sin
embargo, se requieren más estudios que intenten comprender los detalles de estas actividades
ritualistas para ir más allá de la comprensión hipotética de estos rasgos. Al final, quedan muchas
más preguntas sin respuesta sobre el significado de los petrograbados y cómo fueron entendidos
y usados en el contexto prehispánico por las personas que vivían en Quiechapa en la región de la
Sierra Sur.

The SAA Archaeological Record , 2021

Latin American Antiquity, 2021

In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeolo... more In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeology Project. Using groundpenetrating
radar, gradiometry, and electrical resistance, we carried out a systematic survey of the site’s Main Plaza to identify
buried prehispanic features that might shed light on Monte Albán’s early history. The most important discoveries include three
buried structures dating between the Danibaan (500–300 BC) and Nisa phases (100 BC–AD 100). We argue that the largest
structure, measuring 18 × 18 m, was probably a temple platform and that all three of the structures were razed and buried by
the end of the Nisa phase at the latest. Furthermore, we contend that these events were part of a major renovation and expansion
of the site’s Main Plaza that occurred during a pivotal period of dramatic sociopolitical transformation in the Zapotec
capital.

Advances in Archaeological Practice, 2020

In this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural resource... more In this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural resource management (CRM) archaeologists, alongside various university archaeologists, tested the use of SfM photogrammetry to effectively replace traditional archaeological methods of mapping and documentation during the excavation of over 500 historic burials. This project was designed with the intention of using SfM photogrammetry for 3D mapping and documentation from its inception, implementing formal procedures and protocols for data collection creating a standard workflow. To our knowledge, this is the first integrated use of SfM at this scale on an archaeological project in Indiana. By the close of fieldwork, over 300 burials had been digitally recorded, and measurable 3D models were generated. We found that the standard photogrammetry workflow implemented for single context excavation was largely successful. First, we outline the data collection process for 3D mapping of single-context excavations at Bethel Cemetery. This is followed by a description of the problems encountered during data collection and the ways the photogrammetry team adapted to variability in field environments for photocapture. Finally, we recommend the adoption of these methods by practitioners/academics as standard practice in the archaeological excavation of human remains.

Cuadernos del Sur, 2017

San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, enclavada en la ladera norte de la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca, ha recibido ... more San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, enclavada en la ladera norte de la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca, ha recibido poca atención arqueológica. Sin embargo, narraciones del pasado antiguo de la comunidad han sido exploradas gracias a las fuentes etnohistóricas y la tradición oral. El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) recientemente completó un recorrido sistemático por la región. En este artículo se describen narraciones contemporáneas del pasado prehispánico de Quiechapa, se discuten los principales hallazgos de la exploración arqueológica, se proponen algunas reformulaciones de la narrativa en torno a la zona y se presenta la metodología utilizada para la interpretación arqueológica de la comunidad, tanto antigua como presente, de Quiechapa.

San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, nestled in the northern slopes of the Sierra Sur, has received little archaeological attention. However, narratives of Quiechapa’s ancient past have been developed from ethnohistoric sources and oral traditions. The Archaeological Project of Quiechapa (PAQuie) recently completed a 99 km2 pedestrian survey of the Quiechapa region. This article contains, a presentation of current narratives of Quiechapa’s prehispanic past, a discussion of major findings from the survey in the Quiechapa region, proposals for some reformulations of current narratives, and a presentation of ways PAQuie has attempted to introduce archaeological interpretations to the Quiechapa community near and far.

Según los cronistas españoles y datos etnohistóricos, cuando los zapotecos salieron de los Valles... more Según los cronistas españoles y datos etnohistóricos, cuando los zapotecos salieron de los Valles Centrales en los siglos XIV y XV para fundar su nuevo imperio en el Istmo de Tehuantepec, construyeron fortalezas en las montañas de Nejapa de la Sierra Sur para asegurar su ruta de conquista. Después de considerar los criterios para definir el concepto de fortalezas, presentamos los resultados de una investigación arqueológica de dos presuntas fortalezas zapotecas. Sugerimos que los sitios no deben ser relacionados con un solo grupo étnico y que los sitios varían en uso y forma de acuerdo con lo que hemos visto en otras partes de la región.

Posters by Alex Elvis Badillo

Conference presentations by Alex Elvis Badillo

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

Our knowledge of the prehispanic past of Quiechapa, Oaxaca. Mexico and the surrounding regions ha... more Our knowledge of the prehispanic past of Quiechapa, Oaxaca. Mexico and the surrounding regions has been largely based on a combination of historic sources, modern day linguistic classification, and previous archaeological work in nearby regions. El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) recently completed a 99 km2 pedestrian survey of the Quiechapa region in the Sierra Sur of Oaxaca, Mexico. In this paper, I discuss major findings from the survey in the Quiechapa region within the context of broader narratives of prehispanic southern Mexico. I combine spatial analysis of archaeological sites and architectural features with analysis of ceramic and lithic materials in order to compare and contrast the material evidence from specific sites with current narratives. I address the occupation history of the region as well as Zapotec military presence based on the initial pedestrian survey. Finally, I discuss directions for future investigations.

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

While extensive research has been conducted in and around well-known sociopolitical centers, loca... more While extensive research has been conducted in and around well-known sociopolitical centers, located in valley and coastal regions of southern Mexico, relatively little work has been done in the rural regions outside these core areas. Specifically, one of the understudied regions of southern Mexico is the mountainous region between the highlands and Pacific coastal lowlands. Recently, El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) conducted a full-coverage pedestrian survey of a 99 km2 area in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa located in the mountains southeast of the Valley of Oaxaca. This paper will examine the methods and preliminary results of PAQuie’s 2016 field season.

To better understand the occupation history of the region, project members documented prehispanic settlement patterns using GPS equipment, and created a geodatabase of all visible features. Additionally, samples of diagnostic ceramics were collected and compared to existing typologies from neighboring regions, demonstrating changes in settlement patterns over time. Together, the Quiechapa time series maps, and ceramic chronology provided valuable information regarding prehispanic occupation, settlement distribution, and how the people of the area might be connected to larger economic and sociopolitical networks.

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

Researchers working in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico are often documenting sites that h... more Researchers working in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico are often documenting sites that have not yet been studied by western scholars. 3D modeling (via photogrammetry) and 3D printing is a quick and low-cost way we can begin sharing this new information with other scholars and the public, while simultaneously enhancing the documentation of archaeological landscapes and artifacts. In the 2016 field season of Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie), we pilot tested the use of low cost photogrammetry and 3D printing at several scales of analysis. In this paper, I will present the benefits of adding photogrammetry and 3D printing to field research. In particular, I will discuss using (1) UAV (drone) photography to create 3D models of sites and landscapes, (2) still photos to create 3D models of artifacts, rock carvings, and landscape features, and (3) the merits of having 3D prints of those models. These methods are particularly conducive to fast and easy sharing of information; facilitating collaboration and communication between scholars working in this region and beyond.

Primer Encuentro Internacional sobre Patrimonio Cultural de Oaxaca, 2016

Durante el 2016 se realizó un recorrido de superficie sistematizado en el municipio de San Pedro ... more Durante el 2016 se realizó un recorrido de superficie sistematizado en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, ubicado en la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca. En este trabajo hablaré desde mi perspectiva como extranjero, sobre el complejo proceso de contribuir al patrimonio cultural de dicha localidad. En este proceso trabajé con las autoridades, específicamente con el comité de bienes comunales, con el fin de comunicar a todas las personas de la comunidad (cerca/lejos) el objetivo del proyecto, las últimas noticias de la investigación, y resultados preliminares. Realicé estrategias como presentaciones, exhibiciones, y otros métodos digitales para comunicar y vincular el proyecto con la comunidad. Es por ello, que presento las ventajas y desventajas de los métodos de comunicación utilizados y el impacto que este proyecto tuvo y tendrá para contribuir al patrimonio cultural de la comunidad de Quiechapa.

Doctoral Dissertation, 2019

For my dissertation project, I examined settlement and land-use shifts in Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexi... more For my dissertation project, I examined settlement and land-use shifts in Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico during the Postclassic period (A.D. 800-1521), a time of sociopolitical unrest. The main goal of the study was to understand the long-term sociopolitical and economic impact of wider political unrest on the rural region of Quiechapa. Quiechapa is a small town with a long history, located in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico, far away from any large urban centers. The Quiechapa region is an interesting case study that can provide insight into how urban and rural zones are sociopolitically and economically connected, and moreover, how those links relate to choices in anthropogenic landscape modification.

I conducted a regional settlement pattern survey and used survey grade GPS equipment to map and document all evidence of anthropogenic landscape modification in a 99 km2 region. In total, I documented 91 sites during the survey. I organized these spatial, metric, and descriptive data from each site into a robust geodatabase in order to analyze quantitative and qualitative data together.

The results of the project show that even though people in rural Quiechapa, Mexico lived in relative isolation, they were profoundly affected by broader sociopolitical changes. Over the long-term, the tumultuous Postclassic period was etched into the landscape in various ways. During Postclassic times of conflict, people began to occupy higher locations in Quiechapa’s landscape and modify hilltop sites adding defensive architectural features. Whether people in Quiechapa experienced direct warfare or political control from distant conquering groups is still unclear, but it is certain that Quiechapa residents prepared to defend themselves.

This research provides the foundational data for studying the effects of large-scale sociopolitical change and conquest on local land-use, highlighting major processes that have contributed to a shift in settlement pattern and land-use strategies.

Advances in Archaeological Practice, 2024

In the summer of 2022, Tulane University, in collaboration with archaeologists from other institu... more In the summer of 2022, Tulane University, in collaboration with archaeologists from other institutions, began excavations at the site of Pompeii. The archaeological work was focused on Insula 14 of Region 1, located in the southeastern sector of the site. To overcome the challenges of recording a complex urban excavation, and of working with a collaborative team, we designed and implemented a unique workflow that combines paperless and 3D data-capture methods through the use of GIS technologies. The final product of our documentation workflow was a robust and easy-to-use online geodatabase where archaeologists can revisit, explore, visualize, and analyze each excavated context using virtual tools. We present our workflow for digitally documenting observational and spatial data in the field, and how we made these data available to project archaeologists during and after the field season. First, we describe the development of digital forms in ESRI's Survey123. Then, we explain our procedures for 3D documentation through SfM photogrammetric methods and discuss how we integrated the data and transformed it into an accessible format by using interactive dashboards and online 3D web scenes. Finally, we discuss the components of our workflow that are broadly applicable and that can easily be adapted to other projects.

Ancient Mesoamerica, 2022

During an archaeological survey in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico... more During an archaeological survey in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, Mexico, archaeologists from the Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) encountered and documented a number of carved stone elements. Of particular interest are the 30 representations of ballcourts carved into natural rock outcrops at two sites in the region. This is the highest density in which this type of ballcourt representation occurs throughout Mesoamerica. After their initial discovery, members of PAQuie documented the carved stone ballcourts using structure-from-motion (SfM) photogrammetry, a quick and affordable technique to collect 3D spatial, quantitative, and visual data of stone carvings.

In this article, I report on the carved stone ballcourt representations documented in the Quiechapa region and offer some preliminary interpretations. I first provide some description of the broader archaeological context in which the carvings were found. Then I describe the methods used to record the stone carvings, followed by a presentation of the data. Finally, in dialogue with extant literature, I explore some possibilities as to why these carved stone ballcourt representations were created, how they may have been used, and what they may symbolize.

Durante un estudio arqueológico en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, Oaxaca, México, e... more Durante un estudio arqueológico en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa,
Oaxaca, México, en 2016, los arqueólogos del Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie)
encontraron y documentaron varios elementos de piedra grabada. De particular interés son las 30
representaciones de canchas de pelota grabadas en afloramientos rocosos en dos sitios de la
región, El Gentil y El Derrumbadero. Esta es la concentración más alta en la que este tipo de
representaciones de cancha de pelota ocurre en toda Mesoamérica. Después de su
descubrimiento inicial, los miembros de PAQuie documentaron las canchas de pelota en piedra
grabada utilizando fotogrametría de tipo estructura a partir de movimiento (o SfM, por sus siglas
en inglés), una técnica rápida y económicamente accesible para recopilar datos espaciales,
cuantitativos y visuales en 3D de gráficas rupestres.
En este artículo, informo sobre las representaciones de canchas de pelota documentadas
en la región de Quiechapa y ofrezco algunas interpretaciones preliminares. En la primera parte
describo el contexto arqueológico más amplio en el que se encontraron los elementos grabados.
Posteriormente, explico los métodos utilizados para registrar los elementos seguido por una
presentación de los datos. Finalmente, en diálogo con la literatura existente, exploro algunas
posibilidades de porque se crearon estas representaciones de canchas de pelota en piedra
grabada, cómo pudieron haber sido utilizadas y qué pueden simbolizar.
Al revisar la literatura disponible sobre representaciones de canchas de pelota grabadas
en piedra, muestro las áreas geográficas donde otros arqueólogos han identificado símbolos
semejantes y el rango de interpretaciones o hipótesis de su función y significado. Con base en las
interpretaciones de otros arqueólogos y lo que sabemos sobre el significado/función de las
ceremonias relacionadas con el juego de pelota mesoamericano, sugiero que los petrograbados
de Quiechapa probablemente fueron lugares para la ejecución de rituales relacionados con la
fertilidad, la muerte y la renovación.
En la discusión, ofrezco algunas reflexiones sobre las representaciones de rituales,
especulando cuándo podrían haber ocurrido, quiénes podrían haber estado involucrados en su
ejecución y cómo se usaron en relación con aspectos de la cosmología y la vida comunitaria.
Estos símbolos grabados en piedra aparentemente inertes en el paisaje de Quiechapa pueden
haber sido parte de las actividades sociales y profundamente significativas entre las que se
encontraban el derramamiento de sangre ritual para múltiples posibles propósitos, incluyendo el
mantenimiento del equilibrio y la fertilidad agrícola, la conmemoración de momentos
importantes en el tiempo o el fomento de lazos intracomunitarios e intercomunitarios. Sin
embargo, se requieren más estudios que intenten comprender los detalles de estas actividades
ritualistas para ir más allá de la comprensión hipotética de estos rasgos. Al final, quedan muchas
más preguntas sin respuesta sobre el significado de los petrograbados y cómo fueron entendidos
y usados en el contexto prehispánico por las personas que vivían en Quiechapa en la región de la
Sierra Sur.

The SAA Archaeological Record , 2021

Latin American Antiquity, 2021

In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeolo... more In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeology Project. Using groundpenetrating
radar, gradiometry, and electrical resistance, we carried out a systematic survey of the site’s Main Plaza to identify
buried prehispanic features that might shed light on Monte Albán’s early history. The most important discoveries include three
buried structures dating between the Danibaan (500–300 BC) and Nisa phases (100 BC–AD 100). We argue that the largest
structure, measuring 18 × 18 m, was probably a temple platform and that all three of the structures were razed and buried by
the end of the Nisa phase at the latest. Furthermore, we contend that these events were part of a major renovation and expansion
of the site’s Main Plaza that occurred during a pivotal period of dramatic sociopolitical transformation in the Zapotec
capital.

Advances in Archaeological Practice, 2020

In this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural resource... more In this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural resource management (CRM) archaeologists, alongside various university archaeologists, tested the use of SfM photogrammetry to effectively replace traditional archaeological methods of mapping and documentation during the excavation of over 500 historic burials. This project was designed with the intention of using SfM photogrammetry for 3D mapping and documentation from its inception, implementing formal procedures and protocols for data collection creating a standard workflow. To our knowledge, this is the first integrated use of SfM at this scale on an archaeological project in Indiana. By the close of fieldwork, over 300 burials had been digitally recorded, and measurable 3D models were generated. We found that the standard photogrammetry workflow implemented for single context excavation was largely successful. First, we outline the data collection process for 3D mapping of single-context excavations at Bethel Cemetery. This is followed by a description of the problems encountered during data collection and the ways the photogrammetry team adapted to variability in field environments for photocapture. Finally, we recommend the adoption of these methods by practitioners/academics as standard practice in the archaeological excavation of human remains.

Cuadernos del Sur, 2017

San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, enclavada en la ladera norte de la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca, ha recibido ... more San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, enclavada en la ladera norte de la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca, ha recibido poca atención arqueológica. Sin embargo, narraciones del pasado antiguo de la comunidad han sido exploradas gracias a las fuentes etnohistóricas y la tradición oral. El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) recientemente completó un recorrido sistemático por la región. En este artículo se describen narraciones contemporáneas del pasado prehispánico de Quiechapa, se discuten los principales hallazgos de la exploración arqueológica, se proponen algunas reformulaciones de la narrativa en torno a la zona y se presenta la metodología utilizada para la interpretación arqueológica de la comunidad, tanto antigua como presente, de Quiechapa.

San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, nestled in the northern slopes of the Sierra Sur, has received little archaeological attention. However, narratives of Quiechapa’s ancient past have been developed from ethnohistoric sources and oral traditions. The Archaeological Project of Quiechapa (PAQuie) recently completed a 99 km2 pedestrian survey of the Quiechapa region. This article contains, a presentation of current narratives of Quiechapa’s prehispanic past, a discussion of major findings from the survey in the Quiechapa region, proposals for some reformulations of current narratives, and a presentation of ways PAQuie has attempted to introduce archaeological interpretations to the Quiechapa community near and far.

Según los cronistas españoles y datos etnohistóricos, cuando los zapotecos salieron de los Valles... more Según los cronistas españoles y datos etnohistóricos, cuando los zapotecos salieron de los Valles Centrales en los siglos XIV y XV para fundar su nuevo imperio en el Istmo de Tehuantepec, construyeron fortalezas en las montañas de Nejapa de la Sierra Sur para asegurar su ruta de conquista. Después de considerar los criterios para definir el concepto de fortalezas, presentamos los resultados de una investigación arqueológica de dos presuntas fortalezas zapotecas. Sugerimos que los sitios no deben ser relacionados con un solo grupo étnico y que los sitios varían en uso y forma de acuerdo con lo que hemos visto en otras partes de la región.

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

Our knowledge of the prehispanic past of Quiechapa, Oaxaca. Mexico and the surrounding regions ha... more Our knowledge of the prehispanic past of Quiechapa, Oaxaca. Mexico and the surrounding regions has been largely based on a combination of historic sources, modern day linguistic classification, and previous archaeological work in nearby regions. El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) recently completed a 99 km2 pedestrian survey of the Quiechapa region in the Sierra Sur of Oaxaca, Mexico. In this paper, I discuss major findings from the survey in the Quiechapa region within the context of broader narratives of prehispanic southern Mexico. I combine spatial analysis of archaeological sites and architectural features with analysis of ceramic and lithic materials in order to compare and contrast the material evidence from specific sites with current narratives. I address the occupation history of the region as well as Zapotec military presence based on the initial pedestrian survey. Finally, I discuss directions for future investigations.

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

While extensive research has been conducted in and around well-known sociopolitical centers, loca... more While extensive research has been conducted in and around well-known sociopolitical centers, located in valley and coastal regions of southern Mexico, relatively little work has been done in the rural regions outside these core areas. Specifically, one of the understudied regions of southern Mexico is the mountainous region between the highlands and Pacific coastal lowlands. Recently, El Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie) conducted a full-coverage pedestrian survey of a 99 km2 area in the municipality of San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa located in the mountains southeast of the Valley of Oaxaca. This paper will examine the methods and preliminary results of PAQuie’s 2016 field season.

To better understand the occupation history of the region, project members documented prehispanic settlement patterns using GPS equipment, and created a geodatabase of all visible features. Additionally, samples of diagnostic ceramics were collected and compared to existing typologies from neighboring regions, demonstrating changes in settlement patterns over time. Together, the Quiechapa time series maps, and ceramic chronology provided valuable information regarding prehispanic occupation, settlement distribution, and how the people of the area might be connected to larger economic and sociopolitical networks.

Society for American Archaeology Conference, 2017

Researchers working in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico are often documenting sites that h... more Researchers working in the Sierra Sur region of Oaxaca, Mexico are often documenting sites that have not yet been studied by western scholars. 3D modeling (via photogrammetry) and 3D printing is a quick and low-cost way we can begin sharing this new information with other scholars and the public, while simultaneously enhancing the documentation of archaeological landscapes and artifacts. In the 2016 field season of Proyecto Arqueológico de Quiechapa (PAQuie), we pilot tested the use of low cost photogrammetry and 3D printing at several scales of analysis. In this paper, I will present the benefits of adding photogrammetry and 3D printing to field research. In particular, I will discuss using (1) UAV (drone) photography to create 3D models of sites and landscapes, (2) still photos to create 3D models of artifacts, rock carvings, and landscape features, and (3) the merits of having 3D prints of those models. These methods are particularly conducive to fast and easy sharing of information; facilitating collaboration and communication between scholars working in this region and beyond.

Primer Encuentro Internacional sobre Patrimonio Cultural de Oaxaca, 2016

Durante el 2016 se realizó un recorrido de superficie sistematizado en el municipio de San Pedro ... more Durante el 2016 se realizó un recorrido de superficie sistematizado en el municipio de San Pedro Mártir Quiechapa, ubicado en la Sierra Sur de Oaxaca. En este trabajo hablaré desde mi perspectiva como extranjero, sobre el complejo proceso de contribuir al patrimonio cultural de dicha localidad. En este proceso trabajé con las autoridades, específicamente con el comité de bienes comunales, con el fin de comunicar a todas las personas de la comunidad (cerca/lejos) el objetivo del proyecto, las últimas noticias de la investigación, y resultados preliminares. Realicé estrategias como presentaciones, exhibiciones, y otros métodos digitales para comunicar y vincular el proyecto con la comunidad. Es por ello, que presento las ventajas y desventajas de los métodos de comunicación utilizados y el impacto que este proyecto tuvo y tendrá para contribuir al patrimonio cultural de la comunidad de Quiechapa.

The 82nd Annual Meeting of the Society for American Archaeology, 2018

Advances in Archaeological Practice

ABSTRACTIn this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural ... more ABSTRACTIn this article, we present a unique case study in Indianapolis, Indiana, where cultural resource management (CRM) archaeologists, alongside various university archaeologists, tested the use of SfM photogrammetry to effectively replace traditional archaeological methods of mapping and documentation during the excavation of over 500 historic burials. This project was designed with the intention of using SfM photogrammetry for 3D mapping and documentation from its inception, implementing formal procedures and protocols for data collection creating a standard workflow. To our knowledge, this is the first integrated use of SfM at this scale on an archaeological project in Indiana. By the close of fieldwork, over 300 burials had been digitally recorded, and measurable 3D models were generated. We found that the standard photogrammetry workflow implemented for single context excavation was largely successful. First, we outline the data collection process for 3D mapping of single-c...

Latin American Antiquity, 2021

In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeolo... more In this article, we present the most significant results of the Monte Albán Geophysical Archaeology Project. Using groundpenetrating radar, gradiometry, and electrical resistance, we carried out a systematic survey of the site's Main Plaza to identify buried prehispanic features that might shed light on Monte Albán's early history. The most important discoveries include three buried structures dating between the Danibaan (500-300 BC) and Nisa phases (100 BC-AD 100). We argue that the largest structure, measuring 18 × 18 m, was probably a temple platform and that all three of the structures were razed and buried by the end of the Nisa phase at the latest. Furthermore, we contend that these events were part of a major renovation and expansion of the site's Main Plaza that occurred during a pivotal period of dramatic sociopolitical transformation in the Zapotec capital.