Sign In

William Henry Jackson (1843–1942) was an American photographer, painter, and explorer known for his iconic images of the American West. Born in Keeseville, New York, Jackson developed an early interest in art and photography, which he pursued after serving in the Union Army during the Civil War.

In 1867, Jackson moved to Omaha, Nebraska, where he established a photography studio and began capturing images of Native Americans and the Western frontier. His big break came in 1870 when he joined the Hayden Geological Survey of 1871, led by Dr. Ferdinand V. Hayden. Jackson's photographs of Yellowstone played a pivotal role in convincing Congress to establish it as the first national park in 1872.

Jackson's work extended beyond Yellowstone. He documented various expeditions, capturing the rugged landscapes, indigenous peoples, and expanding railroads of the West. His images provided a visual record of the frontier and were instrumental in promoting the beauty and potential of the American West to the public.

In the 1890s, Jackson worked for the Detroit Publishing Company, where he continued to produce and publish photographs, including panoramic images and postcards. His extensive collection of photographs remains a significant historical resource, offering a window into the 19th-century American frontier.

Jackson's legacy is preserved in numerous archives and institutions, including the Library of Congress. He lived to the age of 99, leaving behind a profound impact on the fields of photography and the documentation of American history.