Small Presses in the Rocky Mountain West
Profiles of Four Private Presses Originally Located in Wyoming and Montana and Their Proprietors
By: Richard L Hardesty
The small/private press movement in the United States has been the subject of many books and articles, but coverage has historically been concentrated to those presses located on either coast or the mid-continent. The Rocky Mountain states have generally been neglected in the past. This work seeks to begin to correct that oversight. In it, four presses located in Montana and Wyoming are covered. Each press biography reviews the background of its proprietors and how the press came to be. The life experiences and philosophies of the proprietors are part of what make each press unique, but all have one thing in common: a desire to produce excellent letterpress editions of texts of value, be they fiction, essays or verse. Checklists of the publications issued under its own imprint are included along with a few examples of commissioned works. Full color images of title pages and covers of selected titles are also featured. It is hoped that this contribution to the literature on the small/private press movement in the U. S. will aid collectors, scholars and other interested individuals in the pursuit of their various aims. RISING WOLF PRESS Hungry Horse, Montana
AI Overview
"Small Presses in the Rocky Mountain West" by Richard L. Hardesty is an encyclopedic exploration of the small and private press movement in the Rocky Mountain states. Here is a comprehensive overview of the book:
Key Themes
- History of Small Presses: The book delves into the historical context of small and private presses in the Rocky Mountain region, highlighting their significance and contributions to the literary landscape.
- Presses Featured: The text focuses on four important presses: Black Stone, Calliopea, Kutenai, and Dooryard. It provides detailed information about each press, including their history, notable publications, and the people involved.
- Publication Checklists: The book includes publication checklists, which are essential for scholars and collectors looking to track the output of these presses.
- Visual Elements: The text is set in Golden Cockerel typeface, adding a touch of historical authenticity to the narrative. It also includes images of title pages and covers, providing a visual representation of the presses' work.
Plot Summary
The book is structured as an encyclopedic guide, offering a comprehensive overview of the small and private press movement in the Rocky Mountain West. It covers the establishment, growth, and notable achievements of the featured presses. Each chapter or section likely focuses on one or more of the presses, detailing their history, notable publications, and the impact they have had on the literary scene.
Critical Reception
While specific critical reviews are not provided in the sources, the book's inclusion in various lists and discussions suggests it has been well-received by scholars and enthusiasts of fine press literature. For example, the Fine Press Book Association and LibraryThing's Fine Press Forum have mentioned the book, indicating its relevance and interest in the field.
Additional Context
- Fine Press Movement: The book contributes to the broader understanding of the fine press movement, which emphasizes the craftsmanship and unique qualities of limited edition books.
- Literary Significance: By highlighting the work of these small presses, the book underscores their role in preserving literary heritage and promoting new authors and works.
In summary, "Small Presses in the Rocky Mountain West" by Richard L. Hardesty is a detailed and visually engaging exploration of the small and private press movement in the Rocky Mountain states. It offers a rich historical context, detailed information about specific presses, and visual elements that enhance the reader's experience. The book is likely to be of great interest to scholars, collectors, and enthusiasts of fine press literature.