Mural #9
NATIVE AMERICAN VOICES OF THE MOJAVE DESERT

Native American Voices from the Mojave Desert was the 9th of the Main Street Murals and was completed in 2008. This large mural was the collaboration of David Brockhurst, Alyssa Schwaltz, Bill Smith, Jane Laramar Brockhurst and several high school students. .
Ancient Indians are thought to have emigrated to the desert after the last ice age approximately 11,000 years ago. The Anasazi were the earliest tribes to occupy the wide expanse of the Mojave Desert. They were followed by the Chemehuevi, Cahuilla, Beneme, Paiute, Serrano and Kawaiisu. Most lived along the Mojave River. The Vanume lived in the Barstow area. They were hunters and gatherers, using all parts of the Mesquite tree for food, clothing and shelter and hunting any animals found. The Mohaves occupied lands closer to the Colorado River and were a much more warlike tribe. They are mentioned in journals from the late 1700’s kept by Father Garces, an early southwest explorer.

Location:410 E. Main St.