In the United States, the 1880s and 1890s were a time of westward expansion. Thanks to the Homestead Act that was passed during the Civil War on May 20, 1862, Americans could claim 160 acres of surveyed government land to cultivate and settle on for just a minimal filing fee.

As Americans headed west, photographer John C.H. Grabill did the same. Along the way, he documented the impact of westward expansion and, consequently, what was happening between the U.S. military and Native Americans (specifically the Sioux) in South Dakota and Wyoming.

Grabill captured 188 photographs that included intimate and captivating portraits of the indigenous people—offering modern day Americans a glimpse of their existence and experience.

Who was John C.H. Grabill?

Not much is known about Grabill. According to........

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