Archaeological Site for Red Ochre Mining
Long before the arrival of white settlers, Indigenous peoples mined red ochre in this area. It is believed that more than 250 tons of this red pigment were extracted using tools made from bone and stone.
Signs of quarrying activities date back centuries before contemporary mining began. Reports indicate that stone tools from the region have been discovered in the mounds created by the Mississippi Mound Builders over 1,000 miles away.
Mining Site
Paleo-Indians extracted this earthy hematite, now referred to as Sunrise red ochre, from the Sunrise site approximately 13,000 years ago.
Red Ochre
Red ochre serves as a pigment, a preservative for wood, bone, and skin, as well as an abrasive.
Red ochre has been found in graves, ceremonial sites, on the floors of Paleo-Indian sites, and even on bones of animals hunted by Paleo-Indians! This vibrant hue, reminiscent of blood, carries profound symbolic meaning for the Paleo-Indians. The color red is woven into the fabric of life, representing birth, menstrual cycles, and death. Truly, red is an incredibly significant and powerful color!
(As one poet describes Sunrise, Wyoming)
For red is the color of Sunrise mine-
The trees are red, and the sky
Is flaming red, and even the wind
Moans red as it passes by.
Red was the hope of the miners bold,
Red was their work and worth
And millions of tons of red ore poured forth
From the great red heart of the earth.
….poem “Red” by Mrs. Charles Bass (Torrington Telegram)
April 1, 1963
Chronology of the Powars II site
Coach Powars
1938-1944
During this exciting period, Wayne Powars takes on the role of coach at Sunrise High School and dives into his passion as an amateur archaeologist, unearthing fascinating artifacts in the railroad yard of Sunrise, Wyoming! However, in1944, Powars embarks on a new adventure as he leaves Sunrise to serve in World War II!
Smithsonian
1981
Exciting developments unfold as Wayne Powars transports the fascinating artifacts to the renowned Dennis Stanford at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington D.C.! In a delightful twist, Dr. George Frison is visiting Dr. Stanford during this thrilling moment. However, upon returning to Wyoming, he faces a challenge in uncovering the origins of these intriguing treasures.
Sunrise School
1986
Powars made a triumphant return to Sunrise for an exciting school reunion, only to find DEQ reclaiming the site! With a quick call to Dr. Stanford, the chain reaction began: Dr. Stanford reached out to Dr. George Frison, who then contacted the Governor. Thanks to their efforts, reclamation was halted, and the site was saved from destruction! What an incredible turn of events!
Artifacts
1986-Present
Dr. Frison and Powars enthusiastically explored the site together, uncovering incredible artifacts dating back an astonishing 13,000 years! Today, this remarkable site is lovingly preserved by the SHAPPS organization, paving the way for exciting future studies.
13,000 Year Old Paleo-Indian Site
Powars II Team
Dr. George Frison
Icon
The late Dr. Frison, a true icon in early man archaeology, played a crucial role in preserving this world-class site! His wealth of experience, unique insights, and invaluable perspectives have greatly enriched the research on Powars II.
George Zeimens
Bringing It All Together
Archaeologist George Zeimens and his amazing wife Geri are the vibrant force that unites fellow archaeologists and students, passionately engaging them in all things Powars II and the Sunrise Historic and Prehistoric Preservation Society! With over 30 years of dedication to youth programs, they inspire a love for archaeology, historic preservation, and the value of work in the next generation. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and their commitment is truly commendable!
Dr. Bruce Bradley
Emeritus Professor
Dr. Bradley brings a wealth of experience in Stone Age technologies and experimental archaeology, with a dynamic focus on the North American Southwest and Great Plains! His anthropological approach to the fascinating prehistoric Powars II site, combined with his thrilling flint knapping demonstrations, truly enriches the historical backdrop of Sunrise.
John Voight
Renaissance Man
John Voight, the passionate owner of Sunrise, has played a pivotal role in revitalizing our beloved town and this incredible site! Thanks to John’s vision, the Sunrise Historic and Prehistoric Preservation Society has successfully rescued the iconic CF&I YMCA building, transforming it into a vibrant cultural museum and interpretive center. What an exciting leap forward for our community!
A Big Thanks to All Who Contribute to SHAPPS
Join the SHAPPS community today as an individual or family and be part of something incredible! Your contributions will play a vital role in supporting and enhancing this lasting legacy. Businesses and institutions are also welcome to join as inactive members to showcase their support. Let's make a difference together!
Contact US
SHAPPS
PO Box 380
Hartville, WY 82215
PH: 307-331-8810