Epic poem showcases "expedition of discovery" through unique lens.

In March, the UCR Library acquired one of 65 copies of The Lost Journals of Sacajewea. Held in Special Collections & University Archives in Rivera Library, this book is a reinvention of Sacajewea's personal journal. From the paper to the cover to the binding to the typeface, and all the way through the photographic interventions that accompany the narrative, it feels fragile and rare and incredibly special in your hands.

Spring 2005 marked the bicentennial of the Lewis and Clark expedition. And yet, while she is perhaps the most famous American Indian woman in history, Sacajewea's biographical details still remain a great mystery. Intrigued by this, and observing two exhibitions at the Missoula Museum of Art related to the bicentennial, master printer and book artist Peter Koch collaborated with poet and author Debra Magpie Earling to develop this visually-stunning poetic interpretation of Sacajewea's personal journal from the expedition.

"Debra Earling’s narrative takes us behind the eyes and ears of a pregnant 17-year-old girl traveling up the Missouri River with the 'expedition of discovery' in 1804-5," explains Koch. "She is haunted by visions." This sensation is expressed through the incredible photographs that accompany Earling's poem. The narrative is printed on semi-transparent, handmade paper so that the images float eerily through the text. Jonathan Gerken utilized empty shell casings, trade beads, and handmade smoked buffalo rawhide paper to bind the book in Koch's shop. The historic Fell typeface, reminiscent of the Eighteenth Century, evokes an indistinct nostalgia for the era. 

Robert G. Trujillo, Frances & Charles Field Curator of Special Collections for Stanford University Libraries, has called the book "an important work to own—for content as well as design and printing." This edition is limited to 65 copies, each signed by the author and the artist.

The complete prospectus can be found online at Peter Koch Printers. Please contact Special Collections & University Archives at (951) 827-3233 or specialcollections@ucr.edu to make viewing arrangements.

Image courtesy of Peter Koch Printers.