Audubon the Naturalist

Letters and expedition plans bring John James Audubon's working life into view in this second volume of Francis Hobart Herrick's biography. The account follows explorations in Florida and Labrador, the making of The Birds of America, and relationships with fellow naturalists, artists and supporters. Chapters on engraving, subscribers and prices show the practical demands behind a large illustrated work, alongside the collecting trips that supplied its subjects.

The Upper Missouri expedition receives close attention through correspondence and an account of the party's preparations in 1843. Audubon discusses expenses, assistants and river travel, while Herrick identifies the companions who joined him and traces their route west. These details give readers a view of natural history as coordinated work involving observation, drawing, specimens and money. Appendices containing family documents, early drawings, subscription lists and a bibliography also make the volume useful for readers interested in the records behind the biography.