The work was issued after the Civil War had devastated the fabric of American life & people looked to simpler times & the beauty of the country for solace. Sold originally by subscription, in blue wrappers, these romantic views became wildly successful. Today, it is a poignant & bittersweet experience to look through the series, with its depictions & descriptions of the bucolic life and superb scenery that has disappeared or changed dramatically in the 133 years since publication.