A Serendipitous Discovery: Unearthing Don Crook's Photographic Legacy
In the fall of 2024, what began as an ordinary visit to a small thrift store in Gleed, Washington, turned into an extraordinary discovery of regional artistic significance. Tucked away among the usual assortment of second-hand items was a collection of approximately 400 personal photographs belonging to Don Crook, one of the Pacific Northwest's most celebrated Western artists. I must add that this thrift store has since move into Yakima and are now located at 415 W Washington Ave. Hidden Treasures is one of the best places to fine a deal in Yakima. Scott and Barb price things to sell and remember you. Go check it out.
Don Crook, who passed away in 1998, left an indelible mark on Washington state's cultural landscape. He is perhaps best known for his iconic "Rolling Hotel" painting, which vividly depicts the historic 1884 relocation of buildings from Yakima to North Yakima (now simply Yakima). This event, pivotal to the region's development, came alive through Crook's meticulous attention to historical detail and artistic vision.
Beyond this signature work, Crook's artistic legacy extends to the famed Toppenish Murals, a project he curated that transformed the small town into an open-air gallery celebrating local history through over 70 stunning murals. His artistic influence also reached the annual Ellensburg Rodeo, where his poster designs became collectible emblems of this quintessential Western tradition.
What makes this photographic collection truly remarkable is its intimate nature. These aren't formal portraits or promotional materials—they're the working archives of an artist's life and creative process. Many images appear to be reference photographs Crook took to inform his paintings, capturing architectural details, landscapes, and historical scenes that would later be transformed through his artistic interpretation.
Among the most charming discoveries in the collection are several photographs showing Crook at work with his cat perched contentedly on his shoulder—an endearing habit that humanizes this regional icon. This feline companion seems to have been a constant presence during his creative sessions, offering a glimpse into the artist's daily life that few have been privileged to see.
The discovery of these photographs not only provides valuable insight into Crook's artistic methods but also preserves a piece of Washington state's cultural heritage that might otherwise have been lost forever. It's a reminder of how easily important historical artifacts can slip through the cracks, and how fortunate encounters—like a casual visit to a thrift store in Gleed—can sometimes rescue them from obscurity.
As these photographs are digitized and properly archived, they will undoubtedly enhance our understanding of Don Crook's artistic contribution to the Pacific Northwest and offer new perspectives on his celebrated works.
To explore this remarkable collection of Don Crook's personal photographs and gain insight into the creative process of this renowned Western artist, follow the link below. Discover the reference materials, candid moments, and artistic inspirations that shaped his iconic depictions of Pacific Northwest history and culture.
EXPLORE THE DON CROOK COLLECTION
