The United States Geographical Surveys West of the 100th Meridian produced original photographic albumen prints from expeditions in 1871-73. These photographs by William Bell (1830-1910) present an early visual history of the exploration of the American west.
30 albumen prints on original letterpress mounts, about 275 x 203mm. Some numbered and titled in negative. At head of mounts: War Department, Explorations West of the 100th Meridian, Expedition of 1872, Lieut. Gen. G.M. Wheeler Com'dg. In lower left corner of mounts: W. Bell, Phot.