The Trans-Mississippi Exposition in Omaha was an opportunity to show off many of the new inventions and to help the rest of the country be aware of the riches West of the Mississippi. One Frank A. Rinehart, the premier photographer in Omaha, was appointed the Official Photographer for the Trans-Mississippi Expo. At the last minute, it was decided to bring about 500 Indians to the Expo to show attendees the human side of this misunderstood people. Rinehart had the unique opportunity to produce photographic portraits of each of the Native Americans in attendance. "The Edge of Extinction" not only highlights some of those portraits of this handsome race, but also gives a view of life in Omaha, the commentary of the national press concerning the Trans-Mississippi, a look at the man who was Rinehart and more so as to help understand this time in the history of the Midwest.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.