Tempe troops, Arizona National Guard during Clifton-Morenci strike

Datec. 1903

MediumPaper

Dimensions3 3/4 x 2 1/2 in. (9.5 x 6.4 cm)

ClassificationsAdornment

Catalog number1999.28.226

DescriptionPanoramic photo of troops of Company C (Tempe), 1st Infantry Regiment, Arizona National Guard standing at attention during the Clifton-Morenci mining strike in 1903. The fifth soldier from the right is Chris Sigala (in the front row and left of the color sergeant holding the U.S. flag).

The men wear ca. 1900 khaki color uniforms (same as issued to U.S. Army troops). Their rifles, cartridge belts, and bayonets are 1880s vintage. The rifles are Model 1884 Springfield rifles in calibre 45/70 (commonly refered to as the "Trapdoor" because of the unique loading mechanism that swings on a hinge). The cartridge belts are Model 1885 belts (originally issued to troops of the U.S. Army's cavalry). The men carry bayonets in scabbards that are attached to their belts (most appear to be a type that uses a brass hook which slipped onto the belt, known as the Model 1887). At far left is an officer with a holstered pistol and sword scabbard on his leather belt (he holds the sword by the handle in his right hand and the blade is behind his right arm). To his right stands a young bugler (who holds his bugle in his right hand).

Buildings appear in the background (many on terraced hills). Other guardsmen can be seen sitting and standing in front of a two-story building in the left background. A group of non-uniformed civilians - probably local miners - stand in the background on the far right of the photo.

Status

Not on view