Family photos remain an important way of preserving our legacy for future generations. As time capsules of sorts, they gift our descendants the chance to connect with their roots and feel a sense of belonging. It was no different for Native American communities. Family photos from the late 19th and early 20th century served to capture their rich history during a time of profound cultural change. We’ve found 50 such images, giving you a front-row look into Native American family life. These vintage photos capture multiple generations, often dressed up in a mix of native and western attire. Rare and fascinating, they reveal how Native Americans held onto family, culture, and traditions, even while facing enormous difficulties.
#24 Photograph Of Knik Chief Nikaly And His Family Near Anchorage, Alaska
15points
Indigenous peoples of the Americas began engaging with photography in the 19th century. Some even owned and operated their own studios. Depicting their own communities with authenticity, intimacy, and cultural insight, early Native photographers' works were starkly different from those by non-Native photographers.
#27 Eskimo Men, Women And Children Wearing Native And Western Clothing, Alaska, Ca 1900
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15points
#28 Missionary Woman Visiting A Walapai Indian Family, Hackbury, Arizona, Ca.1900
15points
#29 Oswald Smith Family, Warm Springs Chiricahua Apache (New Mexico), Ca. 1908
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15points
#30 A Ute Family Of A Wife, Husband, And Two Children In Traditional Dress, Between Circa 1870 And Circa 1875
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15points
#32 Hopi Mother And Daughter From A Wealthy Family At Mishongnovi (Mashongnavi), Arizona, Ca.1898
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14points
#33 Deaconess Bedell Visiting The Clay Family In The Everglades, 1945
14points
#35 Blackfoot (Piegan) Family Group At Trans-Mississippi Exposition, 1898
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14points
Most photographs of Native Americans at the turn of the 20th century were taken by non-Native photographers. Although their photos are often criticized for romanticizing, stereotyping, or reinforcing colonial narratives, they still have immense historical and cultural significance. Today, these photos are an important record of Native American history that might have otherwise vanished with the passage of time.
#39 Paloos/Colville Family Posing With Pony, Colville Indian Reservation, Washington, Ca. 1900-1910
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13points
