Mount Tamalpais: A History

Scottwall Associates Published Date: 1987. Hardcover ix 201 pages; 26 x 22cm. Black and white illustrations. Decorative map on endpapers. From front jacket flap The history of a mountain is a curiosity unlike that of a county or town as we typically view history through the lens of people and events while landscapes are seen only as obstacles or catalysts. A mountain has no political or cultural identity and does nothing but sit and be acted upon. Yet Mount Tamalpais has become so cherished by so many over generations that it seems to possess a personality of its own. It has moods can be dangerous and has inspired both greed and idealism. It bears scars of past injuries and evokes a sense of presence and familiarity whether one believes in the Sleeping Maiden legend or not. The mountain feels alive commanding relationships that range from fleeting encounters to deep enduring friendships. At its best it is truly awesome. For the first time this book unites the people events and issues that have shaped Mount Tamalpais into what it is today: a wildlife refuge park watershed national monument and a place of recreation and spiritual connection for millions. From grizzly bear hunts to conservation battles from the Coast Miwoks to countercultural movements and from poetry and painting to rock and roll festivals this history captures one of the most beloved and iconic landmarks in the United States visited by around three million people annually. Lincoln Fairley dedicated nearly ten years to researching and writing this book while James Heig spent over a year editing selecting images and overseeing production. The Mountain was in no hurry. The authors hope they have done it justice.