5583.01 - An oral history with Bernie Maher, 1973 September 2

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: 1973 September 2

Full Extent

1 Cassettes

Full Extent

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

Language of Materials

English

Additional Description

Abstract

In the interview, Maher talks about the different industries that affected the economy in Monument Valley including the movie business, trading, tourism, uranium mining, and most recently, a coal mine and farming. He discusses how the fluctuations in these businesses have affected Navajo life. Maher says that many Navajos are on relief now because jobs that will support their families are harder to come by

He talks about the homes the Navajo live in, stating that many keep both a house and a traditional hogan, often right next door to each other. He discusses the Navajos adoption of modern housing and amenities; talks about water availability and quality in the valley; describes what life is like in a hogan: how they’re built, their place in Navajo life, religion, and ceremonies; and speaks about different Navajo ceremonies and how some have changed over time.

Maher also discusses the tradition of stock keeping and herding in the Navajo, he explains how fewer Navajo are living the more traditional nomadic life centered around their stock; talks about overgrazing and lack of water resources for animals; states that he thinks the Navajo’s lives have been adversely affected by government relief, that it’s taken away their independence; describes how their lifestyles have changed; speaks about John Collier and the stock reduction program; and discusses stock, particularly horses in the valley now.