author
Galen Clark
1814–1910
A key early protector of Yosemite, he helped bring national attention to the valley and the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias. His long life in the Sierra made him one of the best-known guides, hosts, and advocates for the region in its early years.
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About the author
Born in 1814 in Shipton, Canada East, he later moved to California and became deeply tied to Yosemite during the region’s formative years. After first visiting the area in the 1850s, he settled near Wawona and became known for his knowledge of the mountains, his hospitality, and his strong belief that Yosemite should be protected.
He is especially remembered for documenting the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias and for serving as the first guardian of the Yosemite Grant after the landmark 1864 legislation that set aside Yosemite Valley and the grove for public use. For many years he welcomed visitors, guided travelers, and helped shape the early public understanding of Yosemite as a place worth preserving.
He also wrote about Yosemite and its people, including books on the valley’s history and on Native communities in the region. Clark died in 1910, but his name remains closely linked with the early conservation story of Yosemite and the idea that extraordinary landscapes should be cared for and shared.