Western Performers Gallery

Honoring Western performers who have contributed to the making and preservation of the stories and legends of the West, the gallery also displays the museum’s extensive collection of memorabilia.

Tom Mix was one of the earliest celebrity cowboys, rising from a performer in Wild West shows to a Hollywood legend. Tom Mix, Lajos Markos (1917-1993), 1977, From the collection of: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Fans of early Hollywood were eager to acquire film star memorabilia. Arcade Cards William S Hart and Tom Mix, n.a., From the collection of: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Barbara Stanwyck was the title character of Cattle Queen of Montana, co-starring with Ronald Reagan in 1954. RKO Poster from the collection of: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Barbara Stanwyck wore this costume in the popular TV western "The Big Valley."  Riding Suit and Gun Belt, Tailor unknown, Gun Belt by Arvo Ojala, 1965, From the collection of: National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Included in the gallery is the John Wayne collection. Personally donated by the Duke himself, the collection includes his personal firearms, artwork and memorabilia.

The Western continues to be a draw for Hollywood storytellers, including Great Western Performers like Tom Selleck and the creators of popular shows like Yellowstone.