In 1903, a renowned naturalist joined the President of the United States for a two-week camping trip to Yosemite. John Burroughs offers these delightful reminiscences of Theodore Roosevelt, which center on their ramble through America's first national park and their shared joy in the region's wildlife and geologic wonders. The two observed gophers, badgers, elk, mountain sheep, black-tailed deer, and birds of all kinds while camping in picturesque wilderness settings. "I found his interest in bird life very keen, and his eye and ear remarkably quick," notes Burroughs of his friend, adding, "His training as a big-game hunter stood him in good stead, but back of that were his naturalist's instincts, and his genuine love of all forms of wildlife."
Burroughs' account offers a splendid firsthand portrait of the larger-than-life president, recapturing Roosevelt's inexhaustible energy, infinite curiosity, and convivial personality. A second, briefer sketch recounts a visit to Sagamore Hill, the "summer White House," where the President and his companion took a walk in the woods to identify local birds. Twelve historic black-and-white photographs complement this engaging memoir.