PBS program examines alleged Crazy Horse photo

Does a mysterious photo actually depict Crazy Horse? The PBS series History Detectives will track down the photo’s history when the series airs on Monday, July 20, at 8 p.m. CT/ 7 MT.

Here’s the story: 25 years ago someone gave a Lakota businessman a leather purse. Inside, he found a photograph and a note written in the Lakota language dated 1904. The translation indicated the photo was of Crazy Horse, the Lakota warrior who defeated General Custer. Historians are suspect of most claims to Crazy Horse photos. The Lakota leader avoided cameras, believing they would rob his soul. To verify this photo, History Detectives host Elyse Luray tracks down a Crazy Horse descendant and visits the Crazy Horse Memorial. Finally, she puts the photo in context with other works by the same photographer at the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC. Tune in for the answer.

History Detectives look at all kinds of relics and then research their true historical significance. An object found in an attic or backyard might be anything but ordinary.

Do you have an object that might have had a role in American history? Submit your story through the History Detectives Web site pbs.org/historydetectives. This summer, the detectives are seeking items related to the National Parks. Additionally, Web site visitors can explore past History Detectives investigations; try their hand at being a History Detective themselves; learn investigative techniques; play online games; view video; find teacher lesson plans and more.

South Dakota Public Broadcasting is a statewide multi-media network offering quality entertainment and lifelong learning via Television, Radio, Internet and Education & Outreach. For information about SDPB and the Friends of SDPB, go to SDPB.org or call 800-456-0766.

Tags: crazy horse, american indians, news, state