The Yosemite Valley; Its History, Characteristic Features, and Theories Regarding its Origin
Yosemite Valley, California: Nelson L. Salter, 1910. Very Good. First Edition. [6.75x4.5in] xix, 108 pp., [14] advertising, frontispiece image of Galen Clark, 21 images on plates; Gray-Brown illustrated paper wraps, dark brown ink lettering and illustration of El Capitan on front, advertisements on inside front and back covers, all edges trimmed, text and plate images in yellow borders with changing illustrations, three staple binding; Shelf wear to covers, edges and corners, rear top and bottom fore edge text corners have some creases, old faint water stain along top and bottom edges affecting several pages, small chip in bottom edge of frontispiece, top and bottom of spine with minor fraying and joint closed tears. Item #14341
Galen Clark (1814-1910) was a British North American conservationist, explorer of the California Sierra Mountains, and author of articles and books on indigenous people, Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove Sequoia trees. He promoted legislation to protect the Yosemite region and the Sequoia groves.
“In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Act of Congress transferring Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove to the State of California as a grant reserved from settlement. Terms of the act required that the "State shall accept the Grant upon the express conditions that the premises shall be held for public use, resort and recreation; [and] shall be inalienable for all time." The grant was locally administered by a guardian representing an eight-man board of commissioners. Their first choice for the new position was Galen Clark. Throughout the next 24 years, commissioners came and went but the popular and effective Clark was retained as guardian.” (From the NPS).
Galen Clark was a long time friend of John Muir and participated with him in Muir’s explorations and research on Yosemite Valley.
This book is an insightful chronicling the valley’s natural beauty, geological wonders, and Clark’s own experiences as its custodian. The book blends vivid descriptions with practical guidance, offering readers both inspiration and information about the valley's flora, fauna, and unique rock formations. Clark's writing conveys his passion for Yosemite and his belief in its value for future generations, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the park’s history.
Price: $125.00