In the Heart of the Sierras – J.M. Hutchings – 1886 | First Edition, Illustrated

This first edition of In the Heart of the Sierras by J.M. Hutchings describes the natural history of Yosemite Valley and nearby landmarks using first-hand accounts and early travel data. Hutchings first entered Yosemite in 1855 and sought to promote the preservation and study of the area through printed accounts like this one. The book features views and descriptions of famous sights in the region such as the giant sequoias, ancient glacial terrain, and routes through the High Sierra. It also includes distance tables, elevation charts, and many engraved illustrations. Hutchings also includes the histories of the major Native American tribes that inhabited the region, their conflicts with the influx of miners during the California Gold Rush, as well as expeditions by the United States against them.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: In the Heart of the Sierras: The Yo Semite Valley, Both Historical and Descriptive; and Scenes by the Way; Big Tree Groves; the High Sierra, with Its Magnificent Scenery, Ancient and Modern Glaciers, and Other Objects of Interest; with Tables of Distances and Altitudes, Maps, etc.
• Author: J.M. Hutchings
• Publisher: Yo Semite Valley: Pub. at the Old Cabin; Oakland, Cal.: Pacific Press Pub. House
• Edition: First Edition, 1886
• Binding: Yellow pictorial cloth
• Format: Quarto (4to), single volume
• Size: ~ 9in x 7in (22.5cm x 17.5cm)
• Collation: [2], xii, 13-496 pp
• Illustrations: Numerous engravings throughout, including folding map
• Contents Include:
  • Historical overview of the Yosemite Valley
  • Conflicts between Indian tribes and gold miners
  • Big Tree groves and glacial geology
  • Descriptions of travel routes and landscape features
• Provenance: Stamp of P.B. Fraser, Stockton, Cal. on title page

Condition:

Very Good. Bound in original cloth with secure binding and hinges. Light wear, primarily to the corners, edges and ends of the spine. Pages are complete, with mild foxing and natural toning. Engravings and maps remain clear.

Why Collect This?

• Early travel accounts through Yosemite Valley
• History of Indian tribes in the High Sierras region
• Includes maps, tables, and engraved vistas
• Appealing to collectors of national park and early California history

Item Number: #31073