She worked as a bank clerk and had other jobs, and she initially prepared herself for a career in similar fields, but fate intervened.
While there, one of her visiting teachers suggested that Dutton might enjoy attending the University of New Mexico to study anthropology, which seemed more in line with her interests.
[3] As Dutton was serving as Hewett's administrative assistant, she convinced him that the museum needed more than archeology exhibits.
But both made significant contributions to Southwest research in archaeology, ethnology, and history, while also educating the public.
[4] Her excavation projects included Chaco Canyon (Leyit Kin), in the Galisteo Basin (Pueblo Largo, Las Madres), and in the Salinas area (Abó).