Southern Cultures

Folklore offers a personal angle, a people-oriented approach to the study of history, geography and culture. This article presents a fascinating sampling of ways to look at the stories of people and places. One example in Southern Colorado is a place called Mount Blanca, and its story is complex. Mount Blanca means different things to different cultures groups. Artistic renditions, stories, legends, myths, beliefs and even history, vary depending on how the contributions and experiences of different groups are interpreted. As religious and tribal groups assign their own meanings, places like Blanca become cultural symbols. Studying the manmade environment also improves understanding of the character of Southern Colorado. Two types of architecture, stonework and adobe, are used as examples reflecting the interaction of Italian and Hispanic cultures with the land. Many intriguing ways of looking at Southern Colorado are suggested. Cultural and occupational traditions tell the stories of immigrant coal miners. In groups like the Italian community, where there was a sausage maker in every home, foodways reflect culture. Colcha embroiderers stitch their stories, legends and past traditions into muslin. Santero woodcarvers use nature’s wood and plants to fashion everyday items and holy figures. Rio Grande and Spanish Colonial Style weaving carries on family and cultural traditions. And Japanese culture is linked to the landscape through art, religion, architecture, food and dance traditions. Community celebrations are suggested as great places to study regions, human identity, beliefs and history. Classroom activities and resources include information on a wide variety of topics such as Colorado Fourteeners, their names, art and stories; Adobe Brick Making; Origami; and Nature’s Art. Specific standards are noted in relevant places throughout the essay. Additional resources can be found in Section IV: Resources. Written by CCA folklorist Kathi Figgen.

Southern Colorado Cultures PDF