Buddington Swanson, 78, a freelance writer who wrote more than 300 articles about Western Americana, died Saturday in an Omaha hospital. Mr. Swanson, who lived in Omaha, also wrote ”The Long Land,” a historical novel about the settlement of 19th Century Nebraska, published in 1977. His writing career focused on the history of the central plains states. He also operated the direct mail advertising and marketing firm, Copy Company, which he founded in 1957. For the last six years, he and his wife, Elaine, produced a semi-annual postcard and paper-collectibles show in Omaha. During World War II, he wrote for the national radio program, ”Your America,” that originated in Omaha. In addition to his wife, Mr. Swanson is survived by two sons, Stevenson, environmental writer for the Tribune, and Kimberly; a daughter, Sharron Soper; three grandchildren; and a sister. Graveside services will be held Tuesday in Omaha.
