1930s Military Photograph Archive Documents US military New Focus on Mechanization, Tanks, Aircraft, and Artillery at Fort Lewis, Washington

A historically significant archive of 24 Silver gelatin panoramic photographs documenting US military new focus on mechanization, and airpower at Fort Lewis, Washington, during the 1930s. Each photograph is horizontal and measures approx 7” x 2.5” and is signed "Boland." These professional photographs were taken by the Tacoma, Washington based photographer Marvin D. Boland. The photographs capture key aspects of introducing armored, mechanized, and motorized forces in the arned forces. Over the course of world war 1 the tactics used by armies were revolutionized and changed completely. The military started to use mechanization and new technology in relation (truncated) to infantry, and artillery and its newly created air forces still part of the army. The images are showcasing aircraft, tanks, training exercises, and base infrastructure. Fort Lewis, established in 1917, was a crucial training ground for U.S. Army personnel, particularly during the interwar period. In 1930, the base's airfield, Tacoma Field, opened and would later become McChord Field in 1940, serving as a key installation for the U.S. Army Air Corps. The archive features a remarkable array of military hardware and activities. Several images highlight early U.S. Army aviation, including formations of biplanes in flight and a lineup of parked aircraft, likely used for training and reconnaissance purposes. One photograph prominently displays a single-engine monoplane bearing the roundel insignia of the U.S. Army Air Corps. Other aerial images depict coordinated flight exercises, illustrating the increasing role of air power in military strategy during the period. Also notable are photographs of barrage balloons, a defensive measure used to obstruct enemy aircraft, seen tethered to the ground with crews preparing them for deployment.

Armor and ground operations are well-represented, with images showing M1 Combat Cars of the 41st Tank Company lined up in formation. These early light tanks, predecessors to the armored vehicles of World War II, highlight the evolution of mechanized warfare. Several dynamic images capture tanks navigating rough terrain, with one showing a vehicle tipped at an extreme angle as it maneuvers an obstacle course, while soldiers observe. The archive also documents transport and support vehicles, including military ambulances and convoys of small trucks used for logistics and supply movements. Training exercises feature troops marching in formation, constructing field fortifications with stacked logs, and engaging in radio communications using portable field equipment. The presence of temporary tent encampments emphasizes the mobility and readiness drills conducted at Fort Lewis. The archive provides a rare visual record of U.S. military training between the World Wars, offering insight into early 20th-century military doctrine, technology, and daily life on base. Some photographs exhibit minor curling and light edge wear but remain in very good condition. A scarce and valuable collection documenting the development of the U.S. Army and its transition toward modern mechanized and aerial warfare. (Inventory #: 21568)