John Muir was many things to many movements. By far, his most lasting contribution was to flora. He identified countless species of trees and flowers never before cataloged. He traveled to six of the seven continents (missing only Antarctica, as it had no trees). But our focus is on how he influenced and worked in and for, as he called it, The Yosemite.
The Continuing Battle Over Hetch Hetchy
The Restore Hetch Hetchy organization is still battling San Francisco over the future of Hetch Hetchy Valley. Last year they filed a suit against San Francisco for violating the Constitution of California in their management of the water resource. There was a hearing at the end of January on the subject. In my view this is an interesting contest because it isn’t really “good” vs “evil” – there are no “good guys” and “bad guys.” It is simply a difference of opinion.
James Mason Hutchings: 1824-1902
James Hutchings was probably the biggest promoter of Yosemite in the early days. He was hardly in the forefront of Yosemite’s evolution, but he was there and with recurring frequency.
My Brief Trip To Yosemite!
My shortened trip was productive anyway. I found some interesting details on the early park. I re-visited the Pioneer Cemetery and, outside the park, visited the home of John Muir.
Yosemite History-ing
History was never exciting for me. First off, it required reading, which I still have trouble with. But more to the point, “Who cares?’ I mean, obviously something happened in the past, but what possible relevance can it have today? In the past forty to forty-five years, that world view has been interrupted, quite to my surprise, due to a number of events in my own history.
My Next Sojourn
I am planning another trip to Yosemite for September. I’ll be camping at Crane Flats for four nights. My agenda is to get my feet wet at the Yosemite Research Library and look at the sites of yesteryear.
Restore Hetch Hetchy Valley. Then what?
After visiting Yosemite last month, I got to wondering about the Hetch Hetchy restoration prospects. Suppose for a moment that ruffled feathers of San Francisco and other Tuolumne River recipients are plucked and the “okay” to divert the water elsewhere is made. Then what?
About This Site
Hello, my name is Jeff Kreider. I snapped my first photograph in Yosemite December 24, 1979. Over the years it has become a passion. It is hard NOT to get inspired by the beauty of this park. This park is more than mere scenic opportunities; it is a virtual wonderland wrought by yesteryear. It is my goal to use this site to share, not only my experiences and photos, but also some of its history and the tales of those who forged it.Recent Posts
