Benton, Thomas Hart, 1889-1975

Thomas Hart Benton (upper right, on scaffolding) working on his mural "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library. The other man is local artist Sidney Larson.

Former President Harry S. Truman (left) and artist Thomas Hart Benton on scaffolding at the Harry S. Truman Library. Mr. Truman paints a bit on Mr. Benton's mural "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Truman Library.

Former President Harry S. Truman (left) and Thomas Hart Benton standing in the doorway in the center of Benton's mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library.

Informal portrait of Thomas Hart Benton, in the north lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library, Independence, Missouri.

Thomas Hart Benton addressing the gathering at the dedication of the mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West." At left, Eugene Savage, Rita Benton, former president Harry S. Truman, David D. Lloyd, Chief Justice Earl Warren, Wayne Grover, archivist of the United States, and Bess Wallace Truman seated.

General scene looking toward the Harry S. Truman Library, with guests in the foreground. Eugene Savage addressing the gathering at the Dedication of the mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West," by Thomas Hart Benton.

Former President Harry S. Truman (left) and Thomas Hart Benton pose for the press before the dedication of the mural "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library.

Former President Harry S. Truman painting a small portion of the mural "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library in Independence, Missouri. Artist Thomas Hart Benton is looking on.

Former President Harry S. Truman and Thomas Hart Benton on scaffolding, posing for photographers. Benton is painting the mural "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library in Independence, Missouri.

Former President Harry S. Truman climbing the scaffolding to chat with artist Thomas Hart Benton and get a closer look at his mural, "Independence and the Opening of the West" in the lobby of the Harry S. Truman Library in Independence, Missouri.