Indian Detours Drivers Ruled the Roads

Indian Detours Drivers were immediately identifiable by their outfits as seen in the photo above- large Stetson hat, neckerchief with long braids extending to the waist, knee-length jodhpur breeches, and boots reaching up to the knees. Drivers did not need a college education, and they were not expected to be tour guides answering questions. They were expected to be mechanically inclined so that they could accomplish minor vehicle repairs and change flat tires on the isolated roads of New Mexico and Arizona. 

Even experienced drivers were constantly challenged by the rough roads in New Mexico and Arizona. Most roads were unpaved, and rainstorms caused flash flooding in sandy arroyos which the Harveycars had to drive through. Even after waiting for the flood to pass, drivers often got stuck in the wet sand in the arroyos. Since there was no telephone or radio communication with the Transportation Garage in Santa Fe, most Detours had at least two vehicles, so that one driver could help another when the inevitable breakdown occurred. Drivers were required to carry an inner tube, fan belt, spark plugs, a distributor, plus a tarp for traction and a shovel, and were supposed to know how to make minor repairs using the spare parts. 

Drivers were paid $125/month, and they could accept tips from the dudes. Their travel expenses were paid by Fred Harvey. Another benefit was that they were allowed to marry a Courier and be together on the long trips across the deserts, mesas, and mountains of New Mexico and Arizona. There were some strict requirements though. Drivers were not allowed to drink alcohol, even when off duty. They were required to pack their vehicles with blankets for the dudes, as well as water, coffee in thermoses, snacks, and basket lunches as there was often not a hotel or restaurant to stop at for lunch. Luggage was carried on the back of Harveycars and on the top of the coaches. Car drivers were not allowed to be coach drivers unless they had special training in handling the large, heavy coaches. It was a challenging lifestyle, but most drivers stayed on for many years.