Westward expansion really began after the Lewis & Clark expedition returned from the Pacific. The Corps of Discovery met a party of fur hunters following their old track into beaver country. John Colter agreed to lead them after being released from the Expedition and this was the beginning of the fur trade monopolies and the mountain man legend. This brief period of history from about 1823 to 1840 represented a very colorful and historic time in our young expansionist country. Entrepreneurs abounded and some prospered. Even some "Free Trappers"  did prosper and wee able to retire to civilization.

Some "Free Trappers" shared harrowing escapades and told many a wild tale while sharing a quiet winter quarters evening. Grizzly bears added their share of adventure as well as wild Indians ands bad winters...and worse whiskey. Grizzly bears were being chased off the great plains and into the mountainous country by settlers and "progress"...

so we see predominately plains animals such as Elk and Grizzly Bears retreating into cover. We saw what happened to the Buffalo in the plains. The "Woods" Buffalo in Canada escaped this progress so this type Bison was used to build up the herds to their current numbers.

This trapper is getting a "Flying lesson" because he has surprised Ol' Ephraim on a hidden food source. This is double jeopardy...surprise...food...

"ROCKY MOUNTAIN AIR CORPS" is number 3 in the TOP KNOT series and was reproduced from an original oil (28"x50"). It is limited to 850 signed by the artist and numbered lithographs with 85 artist's proofs and 85 publisher's proofs. It is printed on top quality 100% certified archival (300) years) pH neutral number 1 grade paper with an image size of 18"x32" and a 2" trim on all sides. It has been personally inspected and signed by the artist in pencil. The plates have been destroyed after publication and no further issues will be reproduced.