001 - Introduction Frank Heywood Hodder

Join us on a captivating journey through the eyes of John Woodhouse Audubon (1812-1862), the son of the renowned painter John James Audubon and an accomplished artist in his own right. In 1849, he embarked on an adventurous expedition with Col. Henry Webbs California Company, traveling from New Orleans to the Rio Grande and westward through northern Mexico and Arizona to San Diego, California. Along the way, the group faced the deadly threat of cholera and the dangers posed by outlaws, leading many to turn back, including their leader. Audubon, demonstrating remarkable resilience, took command of the remaining members and pressed onward to California, even as he was forced to leave behind his cherished paints and canvases in the unforgiving desert. Throughout this arduous journey, he meticulously recorded his observations, blending the keen insights of a naturalist with the trained eye of an artist. His notes offer a vivid portrayal of the social conditions in Mexico, the beauty of birds and trees, the majesty of the sky and mountains, and the stark realities of the desert. They capture the challenges faced during the journey, the remnants of Californias missions, the intricacies of mining, and the diverse tapestry of cultures in the gold fields. Though the entries were made sporadically due to the circumstances, they stand out for their striking accuracy. Note that the text—and this recording—ends abruptly, as it was not edited by Audubon himself.