Fiber Production of Three Varieties of Agave Found on Perry Mesa

Agave has been exploited throughout time and space for its sap, edible flesh, and fibers. Cultivation of this productive, multi-purpose plant took place within what is now Agua Fria National Monument at the pueblos of La Plata and Pato on Perry Mesa and Richinbar on Black Mesa. At these sites, the heart of the plant was removed for roasting and, subsequently, consumption. This is an experimental archaeology project that examines another aspect of agave exploitation: the fiber processing potential of Agave parryi, Agave chrysantha, and varieties and possible hybrids of these two species found at Pueblo de la Plata on Perry Mesa. This data will reveal if hybrids or certain varieties of agave provide a significant advantage in this respect. This may provide greater insight into the role of agave in the cultural adaptation of the people that inhabited this landscape.