Edgar Samuel Paxon assisted his father with sign painting and decorating before beginning his professional career as a muralist. In 1877 Paxon served as a scout in the Nez Perce War in Missouri, which turned his artistic interest to American Indian and pioneer life. Two years later he settled in Deer Lodge MO and gained success for several important commissions. He produced eight murals based on the Lewis and Clark Expedition for the Missoula County Court and six for the State Capitol Building in Helena. His best known work is a 6'x10' mural entitled "Custer's Last Battle" which took him many years to make. It was exhibited nationally and was lauded for its accuracy in detail. Paxon died in 1919.

Biography courtesy of The Caldwell Gallery, www.antiquesandfineart.com/caldwell