Grimes Point

Grimes Point, one of the largest and most accessible petroglyph sites in Northern Nevada, contains about 150 basalt boulders covered with more than 1,000 petroglyphs.  Nevada petroglyphs were of magico-religious significance, insuring the success of large game hunts and were located near seasonal migration routes.

Running east and west along the ridge, on the hill above the petroglyphs, there is evidence of an aboriginal drift fence for driving deer or antelope.  This required concentrated group action in construction and operation.

The act of making a petroglyph was a ritual performed by a group leader before each hunt.  Evidence suggests that there existed a powerful taboo against tampering in places, for purposes, and by persons other than those directly associated with the hunt.

Petroglyphs probably date between 2500 and 500 years ago.

STATE HISTORICAL MARKER NO.  27

NEVADA STATE PARK SYSTEM

CHURCHILL COUNTY MUSEUM ASSOCIATION