Explores Charlie and Nancy Russell's two-decade connection with Glacier National Park, showcasing his art, influential visitors, and landscape changes over time.
Cowboy Artist Charlie Russell and Glacier National Park
examines the intimate relationship artist Charlie Russell, and his wife, Nancy Russell, had with Glacier National Park for over twenty years in the early 1900s. At Bull Head Lodge, their Apgar summer home on Lake McDonald, Charlie Russell painted and sculpted, producing some of his most famous works, including major works illustrating Glacier National Park. The Russells also entertained numerous important figures in the art and literary worlds during their summers in the park, and these individuals and their relationships with the Russells are examined. The book also describes park excursions undertaken by Charlie and Nancy Russell designed to support tourism growth as well as to encourage sales of Charlie’s art.
Numerous examples of Charlie’s art are presented in the book, and photographs of the Bull Head Lodge area as well as the park excursions are supplemented by modern photos. These modern photos, taken by the author, illustrate landscape changes that have occurred in the park over the 100-year period since the Russells were among the most significant celebrities to ever call Glacier National Park home.