Customer Reviews

The Yellowstone Story : A History of Our First National Park : Volume 1

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

When I went to Yellowsone N.P. and was researching the Archives there the librarian there said that they consider this book the most complete and accurate account of the history of the park. I liked it because it was well written and nicely illustrated, making it not just a good reference, but enjoyable to read as well. This park is truly a unique place and the first of a most wonderful concept. If you have any intrest in Yellowstone, or plan to travel there, this book will provide some rich history you should not miss.

This book isn't what I'd call a "light read." It's a hard-core history book packed with detail, verification of the detail, and even more detail. At times, this depth is fascinating. At others, it's a little dry. If you're looking for the facts mixed with some really great stories, you'll love this book.

This should be a "hit" for anyone interested in the history of our 1st National Park. The in-depth accounts of the parks "growing pains" bog down a bit at times but still makes for an enjoyable journey into the past. From the detailed historical facts to the enlightening little "stories" and quotes, this "history book" is tough to put down.

This book is part one of a two-volume history of Yellowstone National Park, written by a long-time park historian. Haines is an old-style historian, the kind who could write a book entitled "Yellowstone Place Names," or begin this book with a chapter on the name of the park. He has maps showing the dates in which today's Yellowstone changed hands from France, England, or Spain; or from Louisiana to Missouri to Nebraska to Dakota to Idaho to the current states. He likes documenting such things. His years in the National Park Service did not train him to think outside the box.

But those years also taught him the park inside out. The book is full of little hints about special places off the beaten track, unmarked on any map. Haines also knows the park's history thoroughly. He commands the facts and can weigh in on various debates about this and that. As a result, this book is a valuable reference for those interested in Yellowstone.

The book is a great source of anecdotes about early visitors. Haines spends a lot of time on the mountain men who were the first whites in the area. He tells the story of each American expedition in the region. He introduces us to all the early Euro-American settlers. (He also spends a little time on the pre-European Natives.) Though Haines is not self-conscious about what he's doing, this story fits into he usual one of Conquest, of Explorers taming the land.

What, in Haines' mind, does it all add up to? It's not clear. Haines is not one to give you an overall narrative. He does not give us an interpretation of the park and its history. He doesn't tell us why the park's story is important to tell.

That, dear reader, is left to you. When you do it, though, you'll want this book on your shelf to refer to.

Haines' complete "Yellowstone Story", vol. 1 and 2, are what can only be described as sensational. The sheer volume of intricate detail leaves the reader feeling as if he or she had lived each moment or event. From the race to "discover" the area to the push to "civilize" it, the reader is left feeling sad that an era of exploration, inginuity and discovery is now far behind us. But, at least for a few brief moments, Haines is able to bring us back to that time and to impart to us the sense of history and pride and wonder that many of the parks earliest vistors must have felt. This book is not for the casual visitor of Yellowstone, rather, it is for the rabid fan of Wonderland!! Enjoy!!

Magnificent and comprehensive review of how the Park got where it is today. Well documented/ particularly enjoyed the passion for the land and its inhabitants. My family grew up on the edge of the Park and this book greatlly enhanced my understanding of their history.

very detailed, covers many facets of Yellowstone development over long time span. Extensive notes for those interested in persuing more detailed research. More for the history addict than beach blanket reading.