Home » McCracken Research Archives, Collections, and Resources

McCracken Research Archives, Collections, and Resources

Research, Archives, Collections, and Resources

McCracken Research Library

The Gold Standard of American West Research & Resources

Explore thousands of museum objects and images, and deepen your knowledge of the American West. We have one of the most extensive collections of Plains Indian objects, photos of famous figures of the West, and more. Led by the McCracken Library at the Center of the West, we’re dedicated to preserving and publishing the very best of American West history for public use.

Image Rights & Reproductions

Journey through sweeping western landscapes, roaming wildlife, cowboy life, and the spectacle of Buffalo Bill’s Wild West. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West’s extraordinary collection of photographs, posters, and artwork captures both the authentic and the imagined American West. Explore thousands of digital images—expanding every day—and find the West that inspires you. Perfect for research, education, media projects, or personal enjoyment, each image tells a story of adventure, beauty, and heritage. The Center’s Image Rights and Reproductions Department provides high-quality images upon written request. Submit your form below to access and share these visual treasures responsibly.

Explore Our Collections

Cheyenne moccasins, ca. 1890. Gift of Robert F. Garland. NA.202.5

Explore thousands of objects from our museum collections. Save your favorites and share with friends! 

William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, ca. 1912. P.69.171
Photos tell the real story of the West. Browse images of historical figures, Plains Indian culture, and more.
MS 92, Dean Hays Family Papers.
An expansive database of manuscripts, photographs, and other items that preserve American West history.
Fig. 7: Very little surrounded Buffalo Bill—the Scout after its dedication in 1924. MS 228 Buffalo Bill Museum Photos, McCracken Research Library. PN.228.167
Research stipends that promote new scholarship and expand our view of the American West.
William F. Cody in front of his Wild West show tent, ca. 1900. MS47 David R. Phillips Collection. PN.47.17

An expansive collection of photos, documents, and records that examine both sides of Buffalo Bill.

MRL-WYLDCat
Browse our research library’s book collection through the Wyoming Libraries Database, WYLDCat.
In 1903 Remington signed an exclusive contract with "Collier's" magazine to produce works in color on various historic themes related to the American frontier. As part of that work, he initiated a series of eleven paintings for the magazine in 1905 which was titled "The Great Explorers." "Radisson and Groseilliers," pictured here, is the only painting which remains from the original set. It was a pivotal piece for the "In Search of Frederic Remington" exhibition. Gift of Mrs. Karl Frank. 14.86
The premier online collection of more than 3,000+ unique artworks by Frederic Remington.
Alexander Phimister Proctor with small panther

This online catalogue explores eleven of Alexander Phimister Proctor’s sculptures.

Joseph Henry Sharp's "Squaws Preparing Sweat Teepee; [Preparing for the Medicine Sweat]," ca 1922. 5.74
A new online catalogue of artist Joseph Henry Sharp’s works held in institutional collections.
Bookshelves with a moving ladder.

Explore select bibliographies on topics curated by McCracken Research Library staff.