Cowgirls: Women of the Wild West

Cowgirls: Women of the Wild West by Manns, William. hardcover edition. ISBN: 9780939549184.

This exciting journey into this slice of true Americana begins with a foreword from Americas most beloved cowgirl, Dale Evans. Illustrated with more than 450 color photographs and historic images, COWGIRLS: Women of the Wild West pays tribute to the life and legacy of the pioneer woman in the American West, who worked on ranches, performed in Wild West shows, and competed in the rodeo arena. The cowgirl appeared on the American frontier in the mid-1800s. She worked with stock alongside the cowboy and was a determined and spirited pioneer. Rancher Lorraine Plass, at age 87, epitomizes the cowgirl spirit: As long as the colt stays under me Ill do all right. I will get the job done. In COWGIRLS, the author and photographer present the history of the cowgirl through a combination of compelling tales, illustrations of their gear, western art, and photography. In six chapters, COWGIRLS represents the years between 1880 and 1950, which include the migration of women to the West, the rodeo stars of the early twentieth century, the cowgirl images created by Hollywood, and unusual poster art. This colorful volume includes many photographs published for the first time and highlights the evolution of innovative cowgirl fashions. An important book for Western American collectors.