No longer found only on the backs of ol' cow hands from the Rio Grande, or in closets that have been undisturbed for the last sixty years, cowboy shirts are now highly collectible-treasured pieces of Western Americana. But what distinguishes one from the other? Cowboy Shirts is the resource on understanding the history behind these uniquely American pieces of art, and on what to look for in collecting them, because while fashion trends may come and go, quality design and construction are always recognizable. The book contains a complete list of cowboy shirt labels (over 250 of them!) to help you identify the manufacturer and date of your finds, and Rowdy, rhinestoned, saucy, sturdy, colorful, or plain-Cowboy Shirts will make you want to kick up your spurs in Western delight as you follow them from practical wear, to costume, to fashion, to art. G. Daniel DeWeese was raised in South Dakota where his parents owned and operated a ranch near the Black Hills. Dan studied creative writing at the University of South Dakota before going to West Africa with the Peace Corps as an irrigation specialist for agricultural development programs. He helped launch and manage an agricultural-development company in Saudi Arabia. Dan has worn Western shirts, hats and boots all his life, around the world. He lives with his wife, Julie, and their overgrown Airedale in Minnesota. Steve Weil has Western wear in his genes: he is the third generation to run his family's firm, Rockmount Ranch Wear Mfg. Co. Steve's first foray in the rag trade was in 1958 as an infant model in a Western industry fashion show. His love for vintage Western wear began in high school when he raided his grandfather's closet for shirts from the 40's. Today he heads the company and is responsible for all design of the brand's many lines. Steve lives in Denver with his wife Wendy and son Colter