Rare Photos of the American Indian, 1900-1924
The Native Americans faced much battle and strife during the 1700s and 1800s, but there is little photographic evidence about their way of life at the start of the 1900s. Thankfully, well-known photographer at the time, Edward S. Curtis, was able to raise money for a documentary project to do just this. From the period from 1900 to 1924, Mr. Curtis took over 40,000 images of 80 different tribes throughout the continental U.S. Here are a few of our favorite photos from his collection.
1905
Three chiefs from the Sioux tribe prepare for a meeting.
1900
Chiefs from the Piegan tribe visit a watering hole.
1904
A group of Navajo tribesmen travel across the Canyon de Chelly in Arizona
1910
The hunting skills and techniques of the Native American evolved as their habitat shifted west. This photo shows a Kutenai tribesman in a canoe hunting duck.
1910
Tepees housing Piegan tribespeople.
1908
This photo looks like a scene straight out of Dances with Wolves, doesn't it? It captures an Apsaroke man on horseback, looking over a ridge.
1908
We grew up seeing cartoons and depictions of Native American women with finely-crafted baby-carriers, but we never had seen one in real-life. Here's a photo of an authentic one from 1908.
1910
Piegan girls gather goldenrod in the fields outside of camp.
1914
Farther north, the Kwakiutl tribe occupied the lands of British Columbia. This photo and the next two show members of the tribe arriving for a wedding ceremony.
1914
The Kwakiutl people had elaborate canoes that could launch full sails when rowing wasn't feasible. Notice the intricate dragon/monster design on the side.
1914
This amazing photo shows a bride arriving for a Kwakiutl wedding ceremony.
1914
The Qagyuhl tribe was well-known for its elaborate costumes and ceremonies. This photo captures a group before one of the tribes annual ceremonies.
1923
Hupa man fishing for salmon in a local stream.
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