The Palouse
The Palouse is a distinct geographic region in southeast Washington, north central Idaho, and parts of northeast Oregon. It is a major agricultural area, primarily producing wheat and legumes.
Originally settled by the Palus, a native American tribe, the region underwent a western expansion and settlement by the United States. This facilitated a wheat-growing boom during the 1880’s. The proliferation of railroads increased the rapid settlement and by 1890 nearly all the Palouse lands had been taken up and converted to wheat farming. Rural centers developed in Colfax, Palouse and Pullman, Washington; and Moscow Idaho.
The region is dotted with old abandoned farmsteads. Because of the dry climate many buildings are still standing.
Machine Tracks
Over the years machinery companies developed tractors and combines that hydraulically self level. This made it possible for farmers to more easily plant and harvest crops on the hillsides. They follow the contours of the hills and valleys.
These photographs were taken in late August, after most of the harvest was complete and before weather or further farming operations disturbed the fields. The harvesting machine tracks form the distinctive patterns.