Born in London England, in 1809. William H. Bartlett came to America in 1840. He crossed Canada as it was known at the time, i.e. from Halifax to Niagara Falls, traveling by foot and canoe, consigning his impressions in numerous drawings and sketches. These having been etched on copper plates and enhanced with watercolours have become a priceless source of sociological references on the era. Bartlett knew instinctively how to catch the proper feeling of a colonial settlement, an indian camp or the beginning of large cities. He is one of the rare few artists who could also recreate on paper the power of the north american natural environment.

Commissioned by the British Crown, William H. Bartlett traveled all his life and on all continents. His etchings on Canada have been published in London, in 1842 by N.P. Willis, in two books titled "Canadian Scenery Illustrates". These deluxe editions were very much appreciated by the British bourgeoisie of the time. Nowadays, collecters are fond of these specially the ones enhanced with watercolours.