"I was a pretty proud kid": An Interpretation of Differences in Posed and Unposed Photographs of Montana Cowboys

Abstract

During the 19th century, posed and unposed photographs were taken of Montana cowboys. Cowboys posed in studio photographs and on horseback display more stereotypical cowboy dress than those photographed while working on the range. This investigation explores some reasons for those differences. Cowboys served as symbols of freedom and individualism to 19th centuryamericans. Dress, emphasizing the heroic characteristics of the cowboy, was adopted by young men who became cowboys and who had their pictures taken to confirm to themselves and others that they had attained that status. More functional dress, however, was worn while working on the range.

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