Report of the Topographical Survey of the Adirondack Wilderness of New York, for the Year 1873.
Albany: Weed, Parsons, 1874. Hardcover. Verplanck Colvin was the discoverer of the source of the Hudson River, Lake Tear of the Clouds. He was the first to thoroughly explore the Adirondack Mountains and track its environmental degradation. His advocacy led to the creation of New York's Forest Preserve and the Adirondack Park.
Colvin (1847 - 1920) was a lawyer, topographical engineer, author and illustrator whose understanding and dedication to the environment of the Adirondacks led to the creation of New York's Forest Preserve and the Adirondack Park. Colvin spent many summers exploring the Adirondack area and by 1869, had decided to undertake a geological survey of the region. In a climb of Mt. Seward Colvin witnessed the damage being done by lumber men; his report linked the cutting of trees to the reduced water flow in the state's canals and rivers, a theory introduced by George Perkins.
In 1873 Colvin's report on the Adirondack watershed made it clear that its protection was essential to the viability of the Erie Canal, then central to the health of the New York economy. He argued that the Adirondack region should be protected by the creation of a state forest preserve. Following his appointment as superintendent of the New York state land survey the Adirondack Forest Preserve was created in 1885.
Publisher's green gilt cloth 8vo, 306pp, total of 20 numbered plates, maps and lithographic views, some folding; complete. Covers and spine ends rubbed. Faint circular discoloration base of spine. Internally, library label at front paste down, map edges a bit ruffled. OCLC: 187403776 records 7 copies. Good + overall. Item #22118
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