Sunday, November 8, 2026

Question: Who was the American Western painter often called Arizona’s first cowboy artist?

Answer: Lon Megargee. Born Alonzo Megargee III in 1883 in Philadelphia, he made his way to the Arizona Territory around 1896 at age 13, spending time with his uncle, rancher Cornelius Borden. He remained a successful painter throughout his life, known for creating the iconic Stetson logo and A-1 beer posters, and for his collection of paintings commissioned by the State of Arizona. Megargee’s strong connection with Arizona is revealed through his paintings of the strength and wildness of Arizona.