This sign is located along SW Jordan Road in Cove Palisades S.P.
Marker Name: Gangatbama Idwacha
Marker Text: The original inhabitants of this area used stone, like the large petroglyph boulder ahead, to document or share information, life events or spiritual beliets.
Similar ancient images and designs found worldwide are collectively known as “rock panels” by scientists. In this region, the appearance of these often-stylistic images varies among cultural groups, but the true meaning of the images is known only to those who originally made them.
Petroglyphs - Hard, hand-held rocks were used to peck away or scratch the upper layer, or patina, of the rock. This made the image or symbol stand out against the unaltered surface of the rock.
Pictographs - Pigment was made by adding organic binding agents to crushed/powdered rock or charcoal for desired colors. These paints were then applied by hand or with simple brushes made from sticks, animal hair or feathers.
Precious relics - “Rock panel” sites and the rocks themselves are considered to be spiritually important to the Native Peoples or our region.
Visit Instructions:
Include your thoughts and observations pertaining to this location and your visit. Provide any additional history that you are aware of that pertains to this location. If the marker commemorates a historic building tell us what it is used for now or share with us the circumstances of an earlier visit to bring this locations history to life.
Please upload a favorite photograph you took of the waymark. Although visiting this waymark in person is the only thing required of you to receive credit for your visit, taking the time to add this information is greatly appreciated.
Be creative.