Photograph of Mr. and Mrs. James Edward Hill standing side-by-side in an openwork gazebo during their golden anniversary reception at the Howard Johnson Motor Lodge in Austin, Texas. A large tree is visible behind the gazebo and a pool is partially visible on the right side of the image.

Document describes the origins and history of the Soil Survey with an emphasis on the time periods of 1899-1912, 1912-1920, 1920-1933, and 1933-1952. "For each of the four chronological periods, a brief introductory chapter describes the general political and administrative environment then prevailing, and a summary of the progress of the Soil Survey achieved under such an environment." (p. 36) Also provides information on early soil sampling, typing, mapping, and interpretation. Also tells about the coordination of the National Cooperative Soil Survey and developments in the National Cooperative Soil Survey from 1952-1957.