But transfer that view to a book, by the engraver's art, accompanied by a careful description, and the reader can readily take it in. Therefore, the numerous illustrations in this volume occupy a prominent place in its plan. Indeed, in one sense, we may truly say that more dependence is placed upon the pictorial illustrations than the text, to convey the information intended. They are not designed merely for entertainment, but also for instruction. Through the objects illustrated, the character, thrift, and aims of the people appear.
Public buildings exhibit the public enterprise of town or city.
Good schoolhouses indicate general intelligence, and the value put upon education by the citizens. Houses of worship are the expression of the noblest and best sentiments of the heart. For this reason, we claim a special mission for the many illustrations in this volume. This book does not contain all the marvels of the New West, by any means. It does not contain all of even the marvellous marvels.