A Line in the Sand:

About the Book

As a preface to a consideration of stagecoaching in the mid-1800s Southwest and West, Ancient Footsteps examines what the Tribal Representatives, Anthropologists, and Archaeologists of today understand about the origins of ancient trails over which many later transportation and communication developed. Considering their ancient appearance, stability through time, adaptability, and later, European appropriation, it sets the stage for commercial and technological change to follow. Using an approach tailored to preservation of these ancient artifacts of mankind, discussion focuses on trail characteristics in prehistoric, historic, and modern times with a final focus on the possible future of these irreplaceable linear artifacts.

About the Author

A retired Anthropologist, Dr. Nixon lives and works in Southern California. His current research interests reflect an abiding preference for the arid climate and desert lore characteristic of that region. His research and writings focus on the stories that sometimes harsh environment contains, whether during prehistoric times, in the Euro-American contact period, amid stagecoaching days, or from more modern times. Investing a career working with Tribal Representatives he has internalized much about Native American customs, folklore, traditions, and philosophies across a broad range of Tribal affiliations. He has lived, worked, and interacted with Elders and Medicine Men and Women and has learned much about their way of life.