The Rowland family were pioneers in the Ellensburg area of Kittitas County, Washington in the 1860’s. Although not a professional photographer, Mary was a serious, very talented artist. Her interests, roles as wife to a prominent politician and mother to three children are reflected in her photographs that include the built and natural environments surrounding her, family outings and recreations, and community events such as the famous Ellensburg Rodeo. Especially intriguing and particularly important are her portraits of local Indians ~ most from the Yakama tribe. Her images are timeless, romantic, whimsical and occasionally experimental.
The Susan Parish Collection of Photography
MARY ROWLAND MIRES
B. 1862 ~ D. 1940 ACTIVE IN CENTRAL WASHINGTON STATE