Thomas Worthington Whittredge was a member of the Hudson River school known for his affection for what he called “homely scenery.” After studying in Europe, he did most of his painting in the East, particularly the Catskills. But beginning in 1866, Whittredge made three trips to the West. His Wagon Train on the Plains, Platte River , above, its subject overwhelmed by the vast empty spaces, is as eloquent in its way as the mountains of his contemporary Albert Bierstadt.