Statement of Significance (as of designation - April 29, 1964):
Excavations at Snaketown by Gila Pueblo revealed that the Hohokam of southern Arizona were strongly influenced by the more highly developed cultures of Mexico, particularly between AD 500 or 600 and 1150, and later. Not only did these excavations definitely establihs the Hohokam as one of the main culture groups of the Southwest, but als demonstrated the chronological development that took place. The introductions from Mexioc lifted the Hohokam into a new pattern of living, which conrasted sharply with the scattered rancherias of the early Indian farmers of this region. Some of the new ideas spread north and east to the Anasazi and Mogollon cultures of Arizona. The extensive irrigation canal system and the large urban developments of "city states" of the late prehistoric period mark the higest achievement of Hohokam labor.

Condition:
The NHL, which includes the prehistoric pueblo of Snaketown and associated system of prehistoric agricultural features, is in good condition. The NHL is on land that is unused for agriculture or grazing within Hohokam-Pima National Monument. There is some erosion damage, primarily at areas excavated during the 1940s and 1950s. Channel erosion has occurred along trails created by wild horses that graze within the boundary of the NHL. Vehicular traffic on an unpaved road also has caused some erosion to one of the site mounds.

Some minor vandalism occurs as visitors occasionally remove a few of its surface artifacts.

Recommendation/Change since last report:
The proposed widening of nearby Interstate 10 may result in trespass onto Snaketown; therefore, there will be a need for Tribal Police and Tribal Rangers to establish patrols within and adjacent to the NHL. Snaketown NHL requires a long-range management plan that will establish protective measures needed to counter future development within and adjacent to Gila River Indian Community.