A scrapbook containing photographs, notes, maps, propaganda, newspaper clippings, and postcards from J. Brownlee Davidson's trip to the Soviet Union in 1929 and a visit of Russian colleagues to Iowa State University in the summer of 1930. The materials document Davidson's work as a member of the American Biro-Bidjan Commission, and feature agricultural practices and machinery, rural and urban life, travel modes, and prominent landmarks.
Buckeye ditcher in operation just north of Interurban tracks working toward heating plant. C.& N.W. tracks to the right. Barns and heating plant to the left. Drain extends from heating plant along N. side of Interurban tracks to bridge then crosses there along south side of tracks parallel for a piece thence to Squaw Creek. Quite a bit of ice was in the ground when excavation was done. (above) Picture shows sighting bar and targets at right. (Right) Machine in operation. In front are the targets from which depth is taken. Agricultural Engineering Department. Spring 1914 by Ashby.
