In northern New Mexico, a flat-topped butte rises high above the desert, its distinctive shape offering a landmark that anchors the geography and communities around it. This is Cerro Pedernal, a mesa that rises 9,862 feet above sea level and dominates the local skyline. Pedernal means flint in Spanish, and was so named for the rock that is strewn about its lower slopes. The native Gallina Puebloans made much use of the plentiful resource, turning it into arrowheads, knives, and other tools. Old Spanish mine shafts have also been found…
