Katahdin: An Historic Journey - Legends, Exploration, and Preservation of Maine's Highest Peak

by John Neff

For millennia, Mount Katahdin has loomed over the changing landscape we now call Maine's North Woods, inspiring and challenging people, from the Native Americans whose trade routes rounded its base; to Henry David Thoreau and Governor Percival P. Baxter, who forged new approaches to nature and conservation; to the hundreds of outdoorspeople who enjoy its trails and waterways each year. Superbly researched and written, this new book by Maine historian John Neff draws together rare sources and takes readers on a journey through the mountain's history, legend, and legacy. The narrative retraces the steps of Native Americans, whose spiritual approach to the mountain still resonates today; recounts colonials' first glimpses of the dramatic mountain; and accompanies Thoreau as he soaks up the landscape's majesty. Neff's analysis of the region's development through the advent of railroading and logging, sporting, and trailbuilding illustrates the history of its pathways, including the Appalachian Trail. The voices of today's Native American, conservation, and community members infuse this historical narrative with the life of the people who are intricately connected with the mountain. Neff, an authority on Baxter State Park, gives the reader a unique perspective on Baxter's legacy of protection and conservation. He also explores the mountain's more sinister legacy--that of misadventure and tragedy in the wilderness. Neff's compelling narrative bridges the mountain's past and today's continuing opportunities for conservation and recreation in Maine's spectacular North Woods--a story that will fascinate historians, outdoor enthusiasts, and armchair adventurers alike.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

384 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2006

Reviews

[Izzy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honestly a great overview of the stories surrounding Katahdin, but I learned that I don't care for certain parts of it's history. So the 3 stars are no fault of the writer, it's mostly that I didn't care for learning about the history of sporting camps of the late 1800s to mid 1900s which felt like a slog. The book is definitely pushing me to learn more about native peoples and cultures in and around the area along with Governor Baxter's legacy and history of land acquisition for the park though.

[Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty good review of the history of the Katahdin area. The large sections on lumbering and sporting camps were a bit dry. I wish that the wilderness philosophy section could have been developed further, perhaps by putting it in the context of economic interests against preserving the park. I would have liked to learn more about specific obstacles Baxter faced when he initially tried to establish his park through legislative means in the 1910s.

[Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great book about the history, creation and some of the climbing of Katahdin. This was amazingly researched and well written. It's a little dry in spots but sometimes history is.

[Michelle Ritchie-haddow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend this book highly to anyone who knows the area around Katahdin or is curious and plans to go for a visit to Baxter State Park.

After the hike this summer down the Nesowadnehunk Stream to the West Branch of the Penobscot and up the Foss & Knowlton trail, I decided to research the forest conditions we had passed through. This book was in the library at Camp Phoenix and once I had started delving into the different sections of history I was sorry to have to leave it behind when our vacation ended. Jim very kindly took it out of the Portland library for me when we got home.

It's well written, well edited, contains some interesting photos. The maps included are confusing but could always be supplemented with actual maps of the current park trail system.

The history begins with native stories and moves up to the near present just as Buzz Caverly has left the post as Park Director. I feel motivated to join Friends of Baxter State Park. Protecting the Park as we move forward feels even more important having read of its history.

[Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thorough, interesting, and an excellent review of the power of one man using his resources (wisdom work & wealth) to leave for all future generations the magnificent Baxter State Park. Just a slow, sometimes laborious read but worth the effort.

[Eric Neff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written by my Dad. Nuff said.....