The Eagle and the Archaeologists: The Lindbergh’s 1929 Aerial Survey of Southwest Prehistoric Sites

Pilot Charles Lindbergh (the “Lone Eagle”) is best known for his famous 1927 flight across the Atlantic Ocean.  But Lindbergh, and his wife Anne, also played an important role in southwestern archaeology.  During the summer of 1929, they worked with noted archaeologist Alfred Kidder to conduct the first extensive aerial photographic survey of southwestern prehistoric sites; taking numerous photos and even landing at remote Canyon de Chelly.  The presentation features many of their historic photographs and describes this important – but little known – early partnership between aviation and archaeology.

Raised in Flagstaff, Erik Berg is an award-winning historian and writer with a special interest in the early twentieth century southwest and the impact of science and technology.  In addition to contributing to several books, his work has appeared in the Journal of Arizona History, Arizona Highways, and Sedona Magazine.  A past-president of the Grand Canyon Historical Society, Berg currently lives in Phoenix.