Pioneering Ascents (the origins of climbing in America)
(Mazel; 1999; 253pp.) If ever there was a heritage book on the American mountains, this is it! A thumbnail sketch of the first discovery of the greatest American peaks, from the "Apalataean Mountains", to Mt. Washington, to the crossing the Sierra Nevada for the first time. A compilation of excepts from the original manuscripts and diaries of the first explorers. Absolutely fascinating, and deserving of a coveted space on any outdoorsmen's bookshelf. Out of print since 1991, the author has donated the entire manuscript to PATC for reprinting and sale. A "golden" publication well worth a read.