Capturing the Carlisle Indian School in 1901

In the spring of 1901, Frances Benjamin Johnston, a professional photographer, was hired by the Bureau of Indian Affairs to visit Carlisle and document the activities of the Indian School. Her photographs were commissioned for exhibit at the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, New York. Over 120 of Johnston’s images survive, providing a uniquely comprehensive insight into how the school wanted to be officially represented.

This talk will discuss Johnston’s previous work documenting other schools, including the Native American students Hampton Institute, what we know about her work at Carlisle, and how her photos were used by the government and the school. Many of Johnston’s photos will be examined in depth to illustrate the kind of detailed view they can give to us today about the Carlisle Indian School in 1901.

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