Connecting the West with the Pony Express

April 04, 2024

Newly framed and on display in our Colorado shop is this stunning "The Pony Express" Hermès silk scarf, by the American artist Kermit Oliver. “The Pony Express” design was first issued by Hermès in 1993. The scarf is shown here in its white and burgundy colorway.

The Pony Express was an American express mail service that used relays of horse-mounted riders. Short lived, the service ran from April 1860 to October 1861, between Missouri and California. It was operated by the Central Overland California and Pikes Peak Express Company. During its 18 months of service, the Pony Express reduced the time for messages to travel between the east and west coasts to just about 10 days. It was especially important for linking the new state of California with the rest of the United States. The Pony Express became the most direct means of east–west communication, up until the first transcontinental telegraph was established in late October 1861.

The Pony Express was romanticized and quickly became part of the lore of the American West. Because it relied on the skill and endurance of hardy riders and fast horses, the service was viewed as a symbol of the exceptional American effort needed to best the rugged frontier.

Known for incorporating western themes and Native American iconography into his work, Oliver aimed to celebrate and memorialize the culture of those normally overlooked by larger fashion houses and brands. So it is no surprise that the riders and history of the Pony Express inspired Oliver to create this colorful and dynamic scarf design. Oliver produced 17 custom designs for Hermès over 32 years and is still the only American artist to ever design for Hermès.

We have had several of Kermit Oliver’s Hermès scarves in shop before, and they always add such wonderful color and vibrancy to the gallery walls. A beautiful mix of history, high-fashion, and design, his designs are not to be overlooked. See this scarf in person on our gallery walls or shop online!

Symbols of Revolution: Liberty Poles & Caps

April 17, 2024

The small peaked hat, known as a Liberty Cap or Phrygian Cap, became a symbol of resistance to British rule and taxation among early colonists. Liberty poles were another form of resistance, a large wooden totem erected in a town square or park, where citizens could post grievances against British rule or gather to organize rallies. Liberty poles with various banners were raised in numerous towns to protest the Stamp Act of 1765 and continued to be raised in the Early Republic era to invoke Revolutionary sentiment. Read more about these symbols or resistance on this week's blog.

View full article →

American Mapmaker A.J. Johnson

March 28, 2024

Johnson maps are popularly known for their intricate detailing, delicate borders, and fine attention to detail. Read more about this famous American mapmaker.

View full article →

Advantageous Agriculture: A Look Into the U.S. Crop Corps and Other Agricultural Endeavors During WWII

March 20, 2024

Always sure to spark an audience’s interest, this World War II Crop Corps poster highlights a lesser known initiative that was aimed towards bolstering American agriculture during wartime. The Crop Corps utilized alternative labor forces to make a crucial contribution to the war efforts.

View full article →