Outdoor Recreation
Title
Outdoor Recreation
Description
Seeking excitement in their own backyard, local clubs in the Northwest formed to encourage outdoor activities, and organize group hiking and climbing trips in the early 1900s. One of the earliest, The Mazamas, founded in 1894 on the summit of Mount Hood brought people in the Portland area together for trips to Crater Lake and Mount Rainier. In 1915, a group of librarians formed the Spokane Walking Club, for women only. This organization later allowed men to join and became The Spokane Mountaineers, who presently organize hundreds of outdoor trips a year. Outside of these private clubs, awareness of the need for outdoor recreation grew. In 1921, land on Mount Spokane was indirectly purchased by Spokane County, and in 1927 it became a state park. The sport of skiing grew with private ski clubs and after World War II Mount Spokane became a popular ski area. The Northwest is still a popular destination for those who seek adventure in the outdoors and will continue to draw people from all over the world.
Collection Items
Spokane -- Picnics (#11)
"When the first Corbin Train ran to Loon Lake. Just a bunch of good natured Swedes and Irish on a picnic. Mrs. Dempsey and two girls inside of the tent."
Northwest -- Mountaineers (#06)
"Mazama Club on climb of Mt. St. Helens. Taken close to the new lodge site."
Northwest -- Mountains -- Mt. Spokane -- Winter (#24)
"On the ski run with one of the lady members of the Spokane Ski Club speeding down the run."
Northwest -- Mountains -- Mt. Spokane -- Winter (#01)
"Beginning of a ski run with 3 men ready to take off."
Northwest -- Mountains -- Mt. Spokane -- Winter (#03)
"Showing frost encrusted trees near the summit of the moutain"
