Clinton Clarke, 1927-1956
- Containers:
- Box-folder 1-13
- Identifier:
- Series 1
- Dates:
- 1927-1956
- Extent:
- 13 boxes
- Scope and content:
-
Arranged by original volume number, this series consists primarily of Clinton Clarke's correspondence as housed either in bound volumes or numbered letter boxes. Although these volumes have alphabetical indexes, it appears Clarke's intention was to arrange the letters chronologically. Nevertheless, such a schema was not maintained and many of the date spans and subjects overlap. The letters deal with the organization and promotion of what originally was thought of as an extension of the John Muir Trail that would reach Canada and Mexico, connecting with other scenic trails in the process. This concept quickly became known as the Pacific Crest Trail.
Clarke corresponded with relevant government agencies, such as the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service, as well as the Rotary Club, Sierra Club, Boys Scouts of America, the Mountain League, YMCA and other organizations interested in outdoor recreation, conservation and education. Many of these letters cover the activities of the Pacific Trail System Conference, the governing body of the PCT, and the activities of the Y-Relay teams which first explored the trail. Clarke wrote many PCT "bulletins" which offered updated information on trail conditions and development. He created detailed field guides and itinerary for PCT hikers. He wrote pamphlets on the natural wonders -- mountain peaks, lakes, flora and fauna -- found along the trail which passes through 25 national forests and seven national parks. Clarke also promoted wilderness preservation, endorsed a national physical training program and voiced his opposition to the proposed Mt. San Jacinto tramway (the future Palms Springs Tramway) through his letter writing campaigns and essays. There are a few personal items including passports and a tie clip. The last box (13) in this series contains a scrapbook commemorating the 1931 dedication of Mt. Baden-Powell in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Contents
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- Location of this collection:
-
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- Contact:
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