University of Arizona

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United States Bureau of Reclamation Photograph Collection

Agricultural Workers Thrashing Hay

Established in 1902, the U. S. Reclamation Service, later known as the United States Bureau of Reclamation, was created to manage, develop and protect water resources. The department was responsible for construction of dams, primarily in the arid western United States, as well as hydroelectric plants, flood control, and water diversion and allocation. The department continues to manage more than 180 projects in seventeen western states.

31 photographs, 1901-1912. Includes photographs of irrigation projects and agricultural activities in Yuma, Mesa, and Phoenix, Arizona as well as at the Roosevelt Dam and Salt River Project. A small number of street scenes and buildings in Tucson, Phoenix, and Yuma are included as well. Roosevelt Dam images include views of the completed dam and its dedication. There are also images of San Xavier Mission, the University of Arizona's Old Main building, the Adams Hotel in Phoenix, and Windsor Ranch and Madison Avenue in Yuma. Highlights include Yumas celebration of the completion of the Siphon (an irrigation project), Heard Ranch cattle, workers threshing grain, and freight teams.