American painter, Civil War and geological survey photographer and an explorer (1843–1942) famous for his images of the American West. TLS signed “W. H. Jackson,” two pages, 7.25 x 10.5, personal letterhead, September 30, 1926. Letter to Robert Bruce. In part: “In regard to Mr. Oleson’s criticism of my picture of the yoking up scene, he is right. In a dangerous region such a disposition of the escort would naturally follow. But I noticed that in open country, or in the vicinity of considerable bodies of other travel, the men rode about as they pleased—ahead, along side, or behind. I am glad, however, to have the criticism of those who really know, for there are many yet who have had a longer and more intimate acquaintance with western practices and customs than I have had. In regard to using that sketch of myself as a bullwhacker in another edition of the ‘Plainsmen’…It would seem to belong with the experiences of some ‘hobo’ rather than a real bullwhacker…The old Conestoga wagon seem to be adopted conventionally for the ‘Covered Wagon,’ although during my time on the plains they were seldom seen. I do not remember having seen one in use. The trains I was with were made up of ‘Jacksons’ and ‘Schuttlers.’” In a handwritten postscript, signed “WHJ,” he adds: “Perhaps Mr. Oleson would be interested in the enclosed sketch of a covered freight train on the North Plate route.” There are also a few corrections through the text in Jackson’s hand. In fine condition, with a rusty paperclip mark and impression to the upper left. RR Auction COA.
