Anthropologist John W. Powell's second trip down the Colorado River in
1871 was the first scientific exploration of the area with a photographer. 
In previous trips, Powell had won the respect and friendship of the local
tribes, even observing ceremonies and councils no other white man had
seen.  In this photograph, he is meeting with Ute Chief Tau-gu.  The
survey left from Green River Station on May 16, 1871.  Six days later, the
group switched to three boats which headed down the river.  The expedition
provided the first pictures ever taken of the ancient writings and
dwellings of the Indians who had lived in the cliffs.  Powell's surveys
continue to be among the best sources for study of both Indian life and
the topography of the area.