Unlike the late 19th century, 20th century Standing Rock history leaves much to be revealed. I continue to work with a wonderful collection of photographs available online that were taken between 1930 and 1949. Most of the photographs are associated with government related work projects on Standing Rock involving what was known as the Civilian Conservation Corps Indian Division. The collection can be found here
Indian CCC unloading Steam Engine on Standing Rock. Photos courtesy of National Archives
A continual problem with these and other photographs is the lack of names for individuals pictured. A handful of the photos in this collection have names associated with them, but the majority do not. Having names would be very helpful in connecting the photographs in place and within local memories.
Above are photographs of a 20-70 Nichols & Shepard steam engine, a small machine that was probably used as a source of standing and portable belt driven power for projects as more flexible gas driven machines can be seen in many photos including the track driven tractor in the top photo. Below is a period advertisement of the steam tractor from around 1905.
Public domain photograph circa 1905 via Wikimedia Commons
Indian CCC on Standing Rock using track driven tractor around 1940. Courtesy National Archives.
It is interesting to see the juxtaposition of steam powered, gas powered and horse powered work that was common during the mid 20th century before petroleum won out as the current dominant power source in the decades following World War Two. Lessons for the future from the past?
Indian CCC building a dam with horses on Standing Rock around 1941, Photo courtesy National Archives