Preserving Western History is the first college reader to address public history in the American West. Andrew Gulliford's collection of essays explains the research and work that public historians do and the complicated issues of historic site preservation and interpretation. The contributors' writings document the application of public history to specific Western themes, places, and personalities. Subjects range from the Little Big Horn Battlefield to Route 66 and from historic brothel buildings at the Mustang Ranch in Nevada to Nikkei removal from Bainbridge Island, Washington. Other chapters interpret the Ludlow Massacre Site, define Hispanic identity and lifeways in New Mexico, discuss wild land firefighter memorials and explain the Wilderness Act as a case study in western public history. Other studies focus on Sand Creek, Colorado and Western Mining Landscapes. Each section begins with an introductory essay that surveys the literature and relevant publications, and each chapter includes endnotes and study questions. The appendix lists academic centers in the West.
Brought back a lot of memories of 37+ years hiking, camping and backpacking in the mountains, exploring Indian ruins in Utah and Colorado, visiting Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park, the Grand Canyon, river trips in canoes and rafts, animal encounters with bears, mountain lion, elk, mountain goats, mountain sheep, etc., and time spent in the wilderness with good friends.
It has been a great life here in Southwestern Colorado! Thanks Andy for bringing back great memories, and for signing my copy of your book! Hopefully Ann and I have many more years of the same to look forward to!