The Museum's Curtis Collection
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Curtis Collection
At the Museum

The North American Indian was sold by subscription, with each of the volumes and its accompanying portfolio released individually between the years of 1907 and 1930. Curtis had hoped to sell a limited edition of 500 copies, but was only able to secure about 220 subscribers. He agreed to print the first 25 sets on Japanese gampi tissue for Morgan to distribute to selected clients, American libraries, and foreign offices including Buckingham Palace. In all, less than 280 sets were printed.

A complete 20-volume set of Curtis’ The North American Indian is housed in the Museum Library, which is a major research facility devoted to natural history, the environment, and California Indian culture. Built in 1929, the Library retains the classic charm of an early twentieth century reading room.

The Museum Library houses research materials appropriate for students and amateur naturalists as well as for serious scientists. A special children's collection provides reference materials for school projects.

The Curtis Collections at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History

Curtis, Edward S.
1907-1930. The North American Indian: being a series of volumes picturing and describing the Indians of the United States, and Alaska. Seattle: E. S. Curtis.

Curtis, Edward S.
1907-1917. Correspondence with Charlotte Bowditch (1846-1919). Including letters, photographs and receipts.

Haida
circa 1913. Slate Totem Pole. Cat. No. NA-NW-HA-11A-6.

Kwakiutl
circa 1910. Woven Hat. Cat. No. NA-NW-KW-1F-1.

Nootka
circa 1910. Woven Hat. Cat No. NA-NW-NO-1F-1.