We all know the name John Muir as one associated with the well-preserved natural areas across the Sierra Nevada, and a reason for California's great national parks. However, how much do we really know about this brave advocate and unforgiving naturalist?
John Muir devoted much of his later life to petitioning Congress and other governmental bodies to preserve the natural beauty of places such as Yosemite, Sequoia, etc.
Although there were other naturalists in the country at the time well known for their efforts, Muir stood out because of his knack for journaling and documenting his encounters with quiet and coherent nature: "In the afternoon an immense shadow is cast athwart the plateau in front of the fall, and far over the fields of chaparral that clothe the slopes and benches of the wall to the eastward, creeping upward upon the fall until it is wholly overcast, the contrast between the shaded and illuminated sections being very striking in near views," writes Muir of his interpretation of the Yosemite Falls.
Muir's beautiful writing skills and impactful actions earned him connections, such as one with a professor at UC Berkeley, with whom he eventually founded the Sierra club. The Sierra club still stands today, with John Muir as its very first president, and advocates for environmentalism and conservation efforts. Not only is the club a saving grace for protecting the beauty of the Eastern sierra (and Mammoth), but it is a leader around the nation for setting environmental morals and standards.
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