Daniel Blegen

The history of the Japanese Americans who settled in the Platte Valley north of Denver is a classic American Dream story. Working with members of the Brighton Japanese American Association, I've had the privilege of telling their collective story in OUR AMERICAN JOURNEY. Beginning in 1900, Japanese immigrants built the railroad infrastructure of the West. Many then put down roots in farming. They influenced the growth of Colorado and the U.S. in a variety of ways.

After sleeping on a dusty buffalo robe at Bent's Old Fort, I felt compelled to share the story of the 1840s trading post and its place in the history of the West. The result was BENT'S FORT: CROSSROADS OF CULTURES ON THE SANTA FE TRAIL, co-authored with Melvin Bacon.

I have also written a biography for young readers about one of Colorado's most inspiring citizens in BOB SAKATA: AMERICAN FARMER.

I make lively presentations to audiences of all ages, including a celebration of the life of Woody Guthrie, one of America's unique singer/songwriters, in a one-hour show titled HARD TRAVELIN': THE LIFE AND SONGS OF WOODY GUTHRIE.

Contact me at daniel.blegen@gmail.com