5159.03 - An oral history with Katso, 1974 August 15

File

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

The contents of the Samuel Moon Monument Valley Oral History Collection consist of oral histories, transcripts, and records documenting the history of Monument Valley and Four Corners area. The oral histories are from those who lived in this area between the 1900s-1970s and pertain to Goulding’s trading post (one of the most well-known trading posts of the 20th century)and its owner/operator Harry Goulding, the Navajo tribe, sheep ranching, local tourism, uranium mining, and the western movies made in the valley.

Dates

Creation: 1974 August 15

Language Note

The interviewee speaks Navajo throughout the interview, with an interpreter translating into English for the interviewer. The transcripts are in English.

Full Extent

2 Cassettes

Full Extent

2 Reels

Full Extent

1 Files (Verbatim transcript (25 pages))

Full Extent

4 digital objects (Abstract and digitized copy of cassette recordings)

Additional Description

Abstract

In the interview, Katso describes in detail a recent Navajo ceremony he was a part of and its purpose; talks about the performance of ceremonies such as the squaw dance and sandpainting for whites despite the proscription against sharing these things with outsiders; recalls the movies made in the valley and the Navajo roles in them; discusses the Stock Reduction Program of the 1930s, John Collier and the Wetherills; talks about races, chicken pulls, and Squaw Dance exhibitions held at Goulding’s Trading Post; remembers Christmas at the Goulding’s; and says that he remembers Harry fondly and is glad that a book is being written about him.