START WITH ART: Fur Traders Descending the Missouri

We're starting every day with art (history!). You can too by simply adding our calendar to yours by clicking here then click "add."

Let's take a look at today's artwork from 1845. Be sure to scroll down so you don't miss the free coloring pages at the end of this post!

Title: Fur Traders Descending the Missouri

Artist: George Caleb Bingham

Date: 1845

Medium: Oil on canvas

Dimensions: 73.7 x 92.7 cm

Start with Art Questions: 

• What do you see happening in the scene?

• What animal is that on the boat? Are you sure? (There's some debate!)

• If you could talk to one of the fur traders in the painting, what questions would you ask them about their adventures and experiences on the Missouri River? 

Looking for a creative activity the whole family or classroom can enjoy? Download our coloring pages inspired by George Caleb Bingham’s 1845 painting, Fur Traders Descending the Missouri! In the original artwork, historians still debate whether the mysterious boat companion is a cat, a fox, or even a bear cub. On our coloring page, we’ve left the animal out—so you get to decide! Let your imagination run wild: draw your favorite animal on the fur traders’ boat, and don’t forget to add its reflection rippling in the water. Ready to put your creativity to the test? Download your coloring pages now and bring your own story to life on the Missouri River!

Don't forget to share how you're folding this into your daily routine by tagging us on Instagram @pageofarthistory and/or the tag #startwithart 🖼️