The Western Pursuit of the American Dream

The westward migration of the American people has often been associated with the quest for freedom, happiness, riches, and self-fulfillment. Rendell draws on his extensive collection to tell the story of the West through surviving books, manuscripts, and artifacts. Explore this national adventure through the words and artifacts of explorers, travelers, warriors, gold seekers, merchants, outlaws, dreamers, and all who shaped the American frontier.

The Western Pursuit begins with the Spanish in Mexico and ends with filmmakers in Hollywood. By exploring the history of fur trade, cartography, industry, artistry, and Western tourism, the collection chronicles how the dream of freedom and opportunity in the West inspired adventures, trade, and legends. The Rendell collection includes over 150 fascinating letters, diaries, and first-hand descriptions, as well as intriguing western artifacts collected over the decades. 358 pp., hardcover.