Re: Camel Safari 2004/2005
Posted by LeRoy Johnson on May 16, 2004 at 14:57:58:
In Reply to: Camel Safari 2004/2005 posted by Pam on May 15, 2004 at 19:18:44:
In 1982 Lew Follansbee did a reenactment of the 1861 California boundary survey trek. Lew came through the park (then monument) with three camels.
You can read about the publicity stunt in “Inyo Independent. Progressive Citizen” newspaper, Thursday, March 25, 1982. p. 8. Any library will be able to order the microfilm. The article: “Camel caravan follows historical path” by Patty Fuller consumes most of page 8.
Lew had to get a special permit for the venture. For additional information on the early use of camels in the valley, see: Johnson, LeRoy & Jean. 1996. “Dr. J.R.N. Owen: Frountier Doctor and Leader of Death Valley’s Camel Caravan. Death Valley: Death Valley ’49ers. This booklet is available from the bookstore at the Park’s visitor center. LeRoy