River Runners

For those who made a living off of river running, the construction of the Glen Canyon Dam was detrimental to their livelihood. River runners were and still are among the most prominent opponents of the dam. Their trips offered once in a lifetime experiences to many visitors, and after the announcement and construction of the dam, that statement became even more true. 

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Arthur L. Chaffin and Harry Aleson ferry passengers across Colorado River for Hite Ferry dedication, July 17, 1946.

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The opening to this advertisement immediately catches the reader’s eye. What is the invitation to? Well, in this case it’s to view and capture photos of Glen Canyon in a way that might never be possible again. This Larabee and Aleson Western River Tours ad captures the disdain and anger that people using the river felt at the knowledge that the Glen Canyon Dam was to be built. Larabee and Aleson certainly weren’t the only ones who felt this way, as Glen Canyon was a way for a few people to make a living, as well as a source of beauty and solace for many more.