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George Catlin papers and illustrations
mssHM 35183  
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Collection Overview
 
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Description
The George Catlin collection consists of roughly 252 unbound illustrations of Indians in both North and South America, by artist George Catlin, and other items all related to Catlin’s unpublished manuscript The North Americans in the Middle of the Nineteenth Century.
Background
George Catlin, artist and author, was known especially for his paintings of Indians. Born in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, he practiced law until his talent for painting led him to join a group of artists in Philadelphia in 1823. Catlin concentrated on portrait painting in Washington, D.C., until 1829, when he saw a delegation of visiting American Indians in Philadelphia. He then resolved to devote his life to preserving the appearance and character of the vanishing Indians and for forty-two years traveled extensively in the U.S. West and lived among the tribes. Catlin wrote many books and articles related to his experiences.
Extent
Approximately 252 illustrations plus nine boxes
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open to qualified researchers by prior application through the Reader Services Department. For more information, contact Reader Services.